[header] How to keep from getting ripped off on a used car [title] Never tell the salesperson you want to trade in your old car. [step] Always negotiate as a cash customer. Salespeople are masters of financial trickery. 
You may get a bunch of money for your trade-in, but you'll lose that money on a worse deal for the new car. [title] Ask the dealer if you can have a mechanic check out the car.