Do your homework

[MyCARZ]

i think people should do some research before going to the dealerships. many websites such as this one provide useful information about different cars. you should know about how much you want to pay, and stick to that number.

i have a couple of friends that sell cars, and they tell me it's the customers that like to play games. it's pretty simple. they don't get paid unless they sell cars so they will do whatever necessary to please you. but if you go in without doing your homework, then you're just negotiating to negotiate. you'll end up with both sides angry and not getting anything accomplished.

[Dan]

Originally Posted by MyCARZ

... they don't get paid unless they sell cars so they will do whatever necessary to please you. but if you go in without doing your homework, then you're just negotiating to negotiate. you'll end up with both sides angry and not getting anything accomplished.

This is very true. Many of us believe in working for the customer. Because if they don't buy, we don't eat!

But I do have to say that it is getting harder and harder to sell cars. The reason's not because customers demand the rock bottom price, but more so because they are unreasonable in their expectations. Cars just don't have the markup as most people think.

I believe in doing your research, finding a salesman you like, offering a fair price, and treating him or her the same way you expect to be treated in return. Before you know it, you will find yourself enjoying your car buying experiences!

[DCroft]

Originally Posted by MyCARZ

i think people should do some research before going to the dealerships. many websites such as this one provide useful information about different cars. you should know about how much you want to pay, and stick to that number.

i have a couple of friends that sell cars, and they tell me it's the customers that like to play games. it's pretty simple. they don't get paid unless they sell cars so they will do whatever necessary to please you. but if you go in without doing your homework, then you're just negotiating to negotiate. you'll end up with both sides angry and not getting anything accomplished.

Exactly! And also to add to Dan's response as well, I've sold Chevrolet and Ford products and the markup just isn't there anymore. The two big American auto manufacturers have gone to what is called value pricing. This not only competes with their American rivals, but also with foreign manufacturers. I cant tell you how many customers walked out on me because I couldn't discount my Tahoe or Navigator enough, but then go buy an Infiniti, Lexus, BMW, etc etc for full sticker. DOH!

[Dan]

The public's perception is that the Japanese automakers provide a product that is superior to the American. Most of that ideal is based on years of advertising that have pounded this belief into our heads, that Japanese cars are more dependable and reliable, getting better gas mileage.

Without taking anything away from the imports, if you look at recent reports in the last 5 years, you'll see that American autos have become very competitive. The latest dependability/reliability test done by J.D. Power and Associates ranked Buick as #1 tied with Lexus, with several other domestic brands in the top ranks.