Know the Real Price
If you’re thinking of buying a new Chrysler vehicle, you want to pay less, not more, right? Getting the best price should be part of your plan of action. And in this uncertain economy, boy are there deals to be made.
The savviest consumers don’t accept the dealer invoice or manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) gimmicks and instead learn the real price the dealer paid long before they ever start negotiating. The dealer price is the amount that auto manufacturers charge dealers for vehicles, including options. Arming yourself with this information will put you in a better bargaining position with your salesperson.
To find out the REAL PRICE the dealer paid (not the MSRP or the “artificial” dealer invoice), along with their incentives and dealer holdbacks, you can contact the Consumer Reports New Car Price Service at 1-800-693-8714 and request a report for $14 – a good deal that will save you hundreds, if not thousands of dollars. You must know the model – but reports will give you the dealer’s wholesale price for each and every option for that model.
Save on Financing
Customers have also saved thousands of dollars on financing by first getting a quote from a credit union or contacting companies such as Edmunds.com or Bankrate.com. Often the dealership will match these lower rates on the spot. Don’t let the sales department rush you into a purchase before you comparison shop for lower finance rates.
Strategies for Smart Car Buyers
Don’t start negotiating until you know the real price the dealer paid for the vehicle (not the MSRP or “dealer invoice”!), and be sure to arm yourself with knowledge that includes:
- Common car-buying mistakes
- Choosing a car
- Get the most from your test drive
- Car pricing
- Trading in your car
- Pros and cons of leasing
- Car insurance
- Picking up the car
- Used car guide
It’s simple homework that will save you money and prevent headaches! Here’s a good place to start from Edmunds.com: Unwinding the Deal — What Are Your Rights?
