Originally Posted by BrianL99 (Post 2240142)

I was a new Salesman in the Auto business, for the Introduction of the 1973 Model run (August 1972).

It's 50 years later and for the last 30 years, I've been a Consultant to an Auto Group that owns 19 dealerships.

First off, no one sold anyone a new Chevy Tahoe, for $16,000 under MSRP.. The "Profit Margin" from "Dealer Invoice" to MSRP is about 8%-10%, depending on options. The margin from actual cost to MSRP is 10%-14%, depending on current incentives from the Manufacturer. There are some rare occasions when a Dealer will set a vehicle for a loss, but it's very rare and relates to how Manufacturer Incentive programs work.

Anyone who believes Costco offers the best deal on new vehicles, is smokin' really good stuff. The same with AARP and every other "Buying Service". It's a big joke in the auto business, as the customer is lulled into believing they're getting a "great deal" and in fact, they're getting nothing special.

The same people posting on this thread, about how they shopped all over the universe, are the same people who bought their golf carts in The Villages and paid a $5000 premium to do it.

If you're shopping a for a new car, just exercise some common sense. The best deal isn't always the lowest price ... unless your time, aggravation quotient and patience are valueless.

There's a shortage of new vehicles right now, that's effecting almost all manufacturers. What happened 10 years ago when you bought a car or even 2 years ago, doesn't apply in today's market, unless you're buying a make/model that no one else wants. If you're buying a car in high demand and short supply, you're going to pay.

After 50 years in the industry, I can tell you there are really only 2 truisms about getting a good "deal" when buying a new car (or used) ... buy during Christmas week or buy in the last 2-3 days in any month.

Originally Posted by margaretmattson (Post 2240198)

Good to hear from a salesman! I have been in sales most of my life too. I tell people what you have said. Never buy anywhere/anytime when demand is larger than supply. You buy a golf cart in the Villages, you are going to pay!

I do buy most of my expensive purchases outside of the bubble. Usually in places where income in the area is low or a small population. But, you say it is not necessary. I can never get away from mark ups unless I buy outside the bubble


Thanks for a great post! Now that I know all the ins and outs, I think I can get the best deal.

Question: Is it best to wait in September to buy a car? Someone told me this is when you can buy the last of prior year models at the best price.

Originally Posted by BrianL99 (Post 2240307)

Yes, you can sometimes save some money, when the new models show up in Sept-Oct.

In general the automobile business runs on a seasonal basis. Spring is the worst time to buy, summer is a slightly better time. Fall is ok, winter is the best (especially December).

Originally Posted by patfla06 (Post 2244554)

I will never pay a surcharge for any car.

Originally Posted by MikeC (Post 2239453)

I was looking at new Nissan Rogues and Kia Sportage. Both cars have a surcharge above MSRP. KIA is $4995 and Nissan was $2995. They say it is because of supply and demand issues.

Originally Posted by Fredster (Post 2248706)

Auto business seasonal!
That made me laugh, since it brought back memories of a car buying experience up north.
We had just had a blizzard and the roads were still being cleared,
and I went car shopping….I got a great deal that day, because I was the dealerships only customer, and I think they wanted to make at least one sale!
The only negative was, I had to drive
my new car home on the sloppy roads!