How comfortable are you in directly negotiating with dealers?

[Judge Rufus]

I've noticed in several threads about pricing, dealer negotiations, etc. that is what appears to be a significant disparity in comfort level among Bronco buyers in having direct conversations with dealers. Examples range from "buyers telling dealers this is what I want and I've got alternatives", to "I've not talked to my dealer at all and am waiting on them", to "I'm just going to piggy back on whatever someone else can find and hopefully I can get in there too".

My perception from reading threads, is that this group skews to the more passive side of negotiating.

So where do you fall?

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[Steamroller72]

Love the process...

Act like a semi-respectful "Bull In A China" shop and make them work for you. People are way too timid when negotiating.

 

[colintrax]

You aint got enough options. I hate the process, but have no problem doing so. I've walked out before, I'll do it again. I do the research to know what I want to pay and won't pay more than that.

 

[Judge Rufus]

You aint got enough options. I hate the process, but have no problem doing so. I've walked out before, I'll do it again. I do the research to know what I want to pay and won't pay more than that.

So what's your walk away price on the Bronco?
- MSRP plus $800 dealer fee
- MSRP and no ADM
- Invoice
- Invoice plus shipping costs
- Invoice less $1,000
- something else?

 

[Bronco4lyfe85]

When I bought my Challenger it took me a month. I’d go in and leave, go back and leave and then took a week. They kept calling me and asking for updates. I eventually made them order me the car I wanted from NM. Then I told them the deal didn’t work and I went home and negotiated over email. Sent them an email of demands and they met them all. Bought a 48K Challenger for $43,500 with tax and fees.

 

[WatchYourSix]

Go there well-informed. Show them what other dealers have committed to and convince them that if they want your business, they'll have to do better but also be realistic. Be respectful but firm. Be prepared to walk out the door. If they really want your business, they'll follow you.

 

[xusarmy]

You should of seen me negotiating for my 2015 Ford Taurus SEL. What puts you in the best position is not having a vehicle to trade in.

 

[Tortuga353]

I’ve started some loose negotiations with my dealer but waiting for facts and the baseline to firm up. Then I’ll actually start the process. I feel like there are too many unknowns and the early deal is not likely going to be the best deal. IMO

Also, I have no interest in driving or figuring out transport from a long distance buy. I figure I’ll get a good enough deal within a few hours.

 

[DrewBronc21]

I negotiate corporate leases for a living and generally like to argue so I’m comfortable as long as I have my facts straight or at least act like it ?

 

[perfectburrito]

I wouldn't say I "love" negotiations, but it's part of my job, so I'm not afraid to mix it up. Bear in mind, it's part of a car salesman's job too. There's nothing you will say or ask that they haven't dealt with before.

I would rather ask questions and be told to pound sand, than regret my buy or wonder if I could've done better.

 

[Stuckin918]

I was a Internet Sales Director and salesman for 10 years (8 for Ford) so I have a pretty good idea of what constitutes a good deal. The $2,000 below invoice deal is most likely below D plan on most trim levels except perhaps a fully equipped vehicle.

I am super nice to all the staff because I know how many customers can be entitled pricks. I feel bad for them having to do 10 hours of work sometimes for $100 mini.

 

[colintrax]

So what's your walk away price on the Bronco?
- MSRP plus $800 dealer fee
- MSRP and no ADM
- Invoice
- Invoice plus shipping costs
- Invoice less $1,000
- something else?

I did the 2k under invoice deal granger has because I know its a set price and I can avoid the haggling BS. If I hadn't come across that deal, I'd probably be haggling for something around invoice, maybe a little over since the bronco isn't exactly gonna be sitting on dealer lots.

 

[calgecko]

I'm 50 years old, and have bought more cars than I care to think about - I hate buying from dealers and hate the negotiation process with a passion. I'm not good at it - and part of that is because I never really understood the difference between "invoice", "MSRP", and the whole "ADM" process. This forum and all the time we've had to discuss it, has helped me better understand. I've been fortunate with my past couple new car purchases, that I've had an 'in' with the dealership due to the fact that I'm an Automotive Photographer and end up making some really good contacts in the automotive circles.

 

[wolfpackinva]

I hate it, but it is a necessary evil. I started my haggling 3 months ago. I suspect I'm not done as I'll have to fend off bullshit fees and add ons.

That said, I have learned the art of walking away from the table. Being able to move my reservation provides some leverage at the table.

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