How many times have you set out to your local car dealership looking for the car you want but it’s not quite the price you need it to be.  I’ve certainly been there with shady car salesmen trying to take advantage because they think I’m an inexperienced buyer, and, of course, a woman.  I’ve had my uncle and brother give me tips on how to haggle, bluff and blow hot air, my husband even tried some of that today.  No dice.

So what works with the slimy car salesmen and how exactly do you get what you want with regards to pricing?

Read on:

Secure Financing Before Going To The Dealer

It is important that you know exactly how much car you can buy that will fit comfortably within your budget.  Try your local credit union first as they typically have lower rates than mainstream banks and since they are usually smaller, tend to give better customer service in this area.

Advantage: You know how much car you can buy and control the price negotiations ie, you have the upper hand.  You know that you cant buy more than a certain amount and you’re not at the mercies of the dealership and their slimy auto financing.

Be Firm On Exactly What Year, Make and Model You Want

Of course, there’s some room to be flexible in this area but I know that I want a black 2007-2009 Toyota Camry with a sunroof.  They can keep the navigation system and alloy wheels, the latter means much less to me and frankly need not be on the table which in turn, lowers the price on the vehicle.  So decide what’s negotiable and what is not before going to the dedalership.  If you’re too flexible around the must haves then you run the risk of not leaving the dealership with the car you want.

Advantage: You know what you want and the car salesman does too, less chance of you leaving disappointed with a car you don’t want or like.

Use The Internet To Shop Around.

Dealerships are often willing to give their internet customers a lower price than if you walk in off the street with no idea as to where pricing begins on a certain make and model.

For example, I received this internet quote after making an inquiry:

MSRP: $22,145
Invoice: $20,305
Special Internet E-Price: $19,105

Then came this email after the Internet quote:

Dear Ginger,

 

Thank you for your interest in a new or pre-owned vehicle. As token of our appreciation, we like to offer you an additional $400.00 off our already low ePrice. (Offer expires September 02, 2008)

 

Question:  How have you dealt with shady car salesmen in the past?  Do you haggle with them on the lot or do you just accept the sticker price?