Buying Your New Car
Before you step into a dealer’s showroom, it helps to know
what car model and options you want and how much you are
willing to spend. That way, you are less likely to feel
pressured into making a hasty or expensive decision and more
likely to get a better deal. To help you shop, you may want to
consider the following suggestions:
* Check publications at a library or bookstore that discuss
new car features and prices. These may provide information
on the dealer’s costs for specific models and options.
* Shop around to get the best possible price by comparing
models and prices at dealer showrooms. You also may want
to contact car buying services and broker buying services
and make comparisons there.
* Plan to negotiate on price. Dealers may be willing to
bargain on their profit margin, which is generally between
15 to 20 percent. This is usually the difference between
the manufacturer’s suggested retail price and the invoice
price. To help you do this, refer to the worksheet listed
at the end of this brochure.
* Consider ordering your new car if you do not see the car
you want on the dealer’s lot. This usually involves a
delay, but cars on the lot frequently have options you do
not want — which add considerably to the cost.