Ask Mike
Buying help

Shop like you've worked the desk

Since 2014 on the inside, from the sales floor to the finance office to the GM's chair. Here's what I'd tell a friend before they walk into any dealership.

01

Passed inspection ≠ good truck

An inspection checks safety items on one day. Ask for the service history, check for open recalls on the VIN, and get it looked at by your own mechanic.

  • Ask for the service history
  • Check open recalls on the VIN
  • Have your own mechanic look at it
02

Read the sticker, not the ad

Compare the window sticker MSRP to the advertised price. A "discount" only means something when you know what it's coming off of.

  • Find the MSRP on the window sticker
  • Compare it to the advertised price
  • Work out what the discount is really off of
03

Talk total price, then payment

Payments can be stretched to fit almost any number. Settle on the price of the truck first, then figure out how to pay for it.

  • Agree on the truck's price first
  • Then talk term, rate and payment
  • Watch for a longer term hiding a higher price
04

Winter tires earn their keep

All-seasons start losing grip once it drops to around 7°C. In Alberta that's half the year. Winters help you stop and steer, not just go.

  • All-seasons fade around 7°C
  • Winters help you stop and steer
  • In Alberta that's half the year
Ask Mike

Buying soon? Ask me what to look for.

Something on your dash you can't figure out, or not sure what to look for on the one you're buying? Send me a message. Your question might end up in a video.

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