4. Brakes and Suspension: Prakash insisted they take the truck for a short drive. The dealer hesitated but agreed. Aman tested the brakes—there should be no delay or noise. He also noticed how the truck handled bumps on the road, checking for any suspension issues.
5. Mileage and Papers: Finally, Aman asked for the truck's papers. He checked the registration, insurance status, and service history. A well-maintained truck would have regular servicing records.
After inspecting three trucks, Aman had his eye on one—a sturdy, well-maintained model that fit his needs. But now came the toughest part: the price negotiation.
The Bargaining Battle
The dealer sensed Aman's interest and smirked. "Good choice! This truck is strong and reliable. It's priced at ₹3.2 lakhs."
Aman kept his face neutral. "Seems high. It's second-hand, after all."
The dealer chuckled. "Low usage! The owner barely drove it. This is the best deal you'll get."
Raju stepped in, shaking his head. "The tires need replacement, and the suspension isn't perfect. You're asking too much."
Prakash added, "And look at the scratches. We'll have to repaint it too."
The dealer hesitated. "Fine, I can adjust a little. How about ₹3 lakhs?"
Aman pretended to consider it but knew he had to bring it lower. "Even ₹3 lakhs is too much. We checked similar models elsewhere; they're offering better rates."
The dealer frowned. "Okay, what's your offer?"
Aman finally threw a number. "We can go up to ₹1.8 lakhs."
The dealer nearly laughed. "Impossible! That's way too low."
Aman shrugged, pretending to lose interest. "Then we'll check other places."
Raju and Prakash played along, turning away as if they were done negotiating. Dealers hated losing potential buyers.
"Wait!" the dealer called out. "Give me a better number."
Aman sighed. "₹2 lakhs. Final offer."
The dealer groaned, scratching his head. "You're squeezing me dry!"
"We're giving a fair price," Prakash argued. "Considering the truck's condition, this is reasonable."
The dealer paced for a moment, then finally sighed. "Alright. ₹2 lakhs. But no further reduction!"
Aman extended his hand. "Deal."
He transfered the money to dealer which bani had transfered to him.
As they finalized the paperwork, Aman felt satisfied. He had secured a good truck at a fair price—all thanks to patience, strategy, and a bit of teamwork.
"Let's celebrate with some chai," Raju grinned.
Aman nodded.
On the way three of them went to have masala chai.
Aman gripped the steering wheel of his newly purchased truck, a satisfied smile tugging at the corners of his lips. The engine rumbled beneath him, steady and strong, as he navigated the road with ease. The truck wasn't brand new, but to him, it was perfect. It was his. Aman's heart swelled with pride as he glanced at the dashboard, his fingers lightly tapping against it.
The faint scent of grease and old leather filled the cabin, mingling with the crisp evening air seeping through the window. The truck was his partner now, a silent witness to his journey ahead. Every turn of the wheel, every bump on the road felt like a step toward something bigger.