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Saturn is the only dealership we know of which offers no-haggle prices. Mercedes pricing is supposed to be no-haggle but we have heard dealers are not adhering to this strictly. Some dealers do offer no-haggle pricing but they are few and far between. No-haggle is the easiest way to buy because there is no negotiation. Its a nice concept but unfortunately automobile dealers are subject to supply and demand. When vehicles are not moving discounts abound. LINKS
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Automotive sales sites are flourishing. Here are some points to remember when buying online, though. Many sites are merely referral services. The sites ask you for detailed information and then sells the information to a dealer in its network. You will then get a call from the dealer. There are a few sites which claim to be able to sell you a vehicle. Actually, these sites are actually buying the car from the dealer. Surprise. As of today, we are not aware of a single manufacturer which sells its vehicles through web sites. Some states, such as Texas, limit this due to its franchise license law. Internet buying can be an enjoyable experience. Setting a price with an internet dealer is easy. If you know what you want, this may be a way to go. On the other hand, it is nice sometimes to deal with a business in your community which employs your neighbors. Take a hard look at your options and explore them.
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The obvious approach is to arm yourself with all of the information you can and go to the dealer and buy the car. Invariably, the dealer will "negotiate" with you. If you do not stick to your price you will pay a little more than you hoped. Pay careful attention to the timing issues outlined in our "interview with a car salesperson." These tips really do make a difference. If you would like a different approach than a face to face meeting with the dealer consider a couple of different techniques which work. Consider sending by facsimile or e-mail an "offer letter" (click here for examples). This letter is an effective technique to put the offer into the right hands and to give dealers an opportunity to think the offer through. You can probably work the phones, too. Call one dealer and get the best price. Call another dealer and try to get the car for a price below the initial offer. Then call the first dealer back (or even another dealer.) Frankly, it is kind of hard to get a dealer to play this game, but if you are looking for a car or truck it wants to move, it is worth a shot. |
