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Hey everyone I am A New and Used Car Salesperson here to help Reddit...

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Hey everyone I am A New and Used Car Salesperson here to help Reddit! AMA (self.IAmA)
submitted 9 days ago* by DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK

this post was submitted on 28 Jan 2013 572 points (73% like it)
907 up votes 335 down votes shortlink:

http://redd.it/17ffwh

First a Disclosure. I will answer absolutely anything with the exception of my location and who I work for. (Which should be reasonable.) Second For Proof, my cell phone is being a bastard right now and won't charge but I get off work at 2:30pm EST today and I will promptly go home make a sandwhich and post a copy of my Virginia Car Sales License. Proof edit: Here are shitty camera phone pics of my license & business card I took a little while ago Now onto the AMA. I work for a larger trusted Dealership we have Around 10 different lots, Over 15 Franchises Including (but not limited to). Ford, Toyota, Fiat, Polaris, Kawasaki, Scion, Mazda, Fiat, Kia, Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep & More. Also I am a Certified Mazda Sales Person as that Is where I started. And I am a Floor Manager of Pre-Owned. I'll be glad to answer questions about cars, car salespeople, the car sales process, financing, purchasing, or myself in general. I Am currently at work so I will be answering questions all day long everytime I get a chance. So Just load them up and I'll do my best. Lastly Allow me to plug /r/mazda where I commonly help out and also I started a sub some while ago that never caught wind and I'd like

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2/6/2013 5:34 PM

Hey everyone I am A New and Used Car Salesperson here to help Reddit...

http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

help to find out how it could if at all possible and from other car salespeople alike. It would be /r/askcarsales . Outside of that Thanks Reddit for always being entertaining and great I just wish Imgur was unblocked on my work computer! oh and yes, Cooking is my main hobby, I fucking love it. Ninja Edit: A huge reason I am doing this today is because of the Front Page post yesterday from /r/bestof that was out of /r/frugal in relation to new & used vehicles. Edit: Hey guys I am taking Mazda Tests I'll be answering a few questions every time I get done with one. Edit: 2pm EST Hey Guys I am still answering questions and have had some great help here too, I'll be off work shortly and try to zoom-zoom through several of these. I've been checking them periodically and there are a lot of good ones I really want to give an answer too! Be back shortly and keep em' coming. Edit: Hey everyone I am home, I am going to go cook something dope as fuck and then I'll return to answer questions! Edit: Hey everyone I am still here a day later answering questions. Once this gets buried don't forget about /r/askcarsales !! thanks everyone.
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[] fidiba 65 points 9 days ago

2pm

Joel McHale

If I would buy a used car, what are the best questions to ask to the salesman?
permalink [] ZosaCloud 21 points 8 days ago*

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I am a Warranty Administrator at A Nissan Dealership in Canada. I also manage our dealerships Used Car "Certification" Process. The best questions to ask is to see a vehicles full service history, and the inspection checklist that was performed when the vehicle was purchased by the dealership. Make sure to note if the inspection was just a Vehicle Safety Assessment or a Full Multi-point Inspection. There is a big difference. Buying a used vehicle from a dealership can be a hit or miss. When a vehicle is traded in, the Used Car Manager normally does only a visual walk-around and mileage check. He'll then check his black book value of this vehicle on the current market to give them a trade-in value. The important thing here is he is only assuming how much

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2/6/2013 5:34 PM

Hey everyone I am A New and Used Car Salesperson here to help Reddit...

http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

service and/or repairs will cost him to make it certified for selling. If a vehicle then comes into my shop to be certified and we find many issues that will cost the UCM more than his allowed margin (from trade-in value to market value) he'll start to cheap out on repairs. So just be very careful and ask to see all the history on the vehicle. Carfax is great too but it can not show you anything guaranteed, a licensed mechanic can.
permalink parent [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 114 points 9 days ago

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Does it have a warranty? Do you have a car fax?


permalink parent [] TheKingOfLimbs 69 points 9 days ago

TBD

Zach Braff

Actor

Car Fax only lists issues with the car that were reported to Car Fax. It's better than nothing, but not by much.
permalink parent [] notsureifxml 26 points 8 days ago

this is true. I own a car that I damaged and had repaired, but was never reported to car fax. The damage permanently affected the geometry of the suspension, which causes tires to wear faster/irregularly, but is something that would not be noticeable in a test drive, or possibly even in a mechanic evaluation, unless he went as far as doing an alignment or measuring the spacing of the wheels.
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[] Ghost17088 4 points 8 days ago

A good mechanic should know to check for signs of an accident, which will include basic checks of the suspension geometry. Unfortunately, a lot of people skip this step or try to do it themselves without enough knowledge.
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load more comments (1 reply) [] BanzaiTree 15 points 8 days ago

True story: I stupidly bought a used Saab and found out after the fact, via Car Fax, that the odometer had been BLATANTLY rolled back, probably by the dealership (beware of Lokey Oldsmobile in Clearwater, FL. MAJOR SCAM ARTISTS there). I lawyered up, the dealership claimed they "lost the paperwork" in mediation, and they

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Hey everyone I am A New and Used Car Salesperson here to help Reddit...

http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

gave me all my money back plus the money I had paid for insurance in the ~8 months I owned it.
permalink parent [] DrHigsby 1 point 8 days ago

I work at a used car place. We use AutoCheck


permalink parent [] beefsupreme 42 points 9 days ago

Great advice but you can't tell what is currently wrong with the car with the car fax. The BEST question is, "Do you mind if I have my mechanic take a look at it first."
permalink parent [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 90 points 9 days ago

Absolutely that as well! The reason i suggest a carfax is several reasons. 1. To know how many owners or if it was a lease or loaner car. 2. To make sure it hasn't had any wreck/body damage/flood damage or a salvage title. 3. To see if it has been serviced regularly and you can tell what (if any) major engine components have been replaced. 4. Prove that no odometer has been rolled-back. 5. Just to say Show me the Car-Fax
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[] kindabiglie 90 points 9 days ago

Just to say Show me the Car-Fax Nice try, Car-Fax salesman.


permalink parent [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 128 points 9 days ago

/r/karmaconspiracy
permalink parent [] JDSmith90 48 points 9 days ago

Well we're all done here. He "conspiricied" himself.


permalink parent [] ohboycheese 28 points 8 days ago

OP knows how reddit works! Quickly run!


permalink parent [] SgtStretch 8 points 9 days ago

Carfax can be useful, if its actually correct. I've bought 2 cars taht had clean carfax reports and later down the road I find out they've both been in accidents. One of the cars had the entire passenger side of the car repainted. I only found out because I got rear ended and the body shop told me because paint matching wasn't consistent because the car wasn't identical colors. It was close enough so that I couldn't tell but they could tell.
permalink parent [] extremelyCombustible 9 points 8 days ago

This is probably due to the fact that most collision repairs will not be listed on the CarFax. Only repairs done as part of an insurance claim or repairs at certain larger shops which primarily service an insurance company's customers will be reported on the CarFax. I think the common misconception is that CarFax has a team of highly skilled

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Hey everyone I am A New and Used Car Salesperson here to help Reddit...

http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

detectives going around the country logging every accident or mechanical breakdown. They are only aware of what they are told.
permalink parent [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 14 points 9 days ago

It can take up to 6-9 months for something to show up on a car-fax


permalink parent [] ElPoquitoGrande 2 points 8 days ago

Mine would show like this... front quarter panel replaced and not quite straight. I paid a guy 1/3 the cash that the body shop wanted to fix it, and nobody's the wiser. If I sell it to a private party, I'll point it out. If I trade it to a dealer, I won't.
permalink parent [] MattWithTwoTs 1 point 8 days ago

If you only have liability on a car, and someone keys it, I think you have to pay out of pocket. So although you know your car has been repaired and painted down one side, doesn't mean it was really messed up. Could've been as simple as someone keying the car, or factory paint defects that a dealership will pay for themselves. In some states there's a certain percentage the dealership can pay without having to disclose to the buyer about any repairs made due to factory defects. Edit: I work at a body shop.
permalink parent [] fotiphoto 1 point 8 days ago

That's when you are lookin for overspray in the door jambs and anywhere else the painters forget to mask off any other parts.
permalink parent [] wthshark 1 point 8 days ago

how can you prove that the odometer has not been rolled back? I'm buying a used car now and this is one of the issues I am having. I have read that with the advent of digital odometers, it is nearly impossible to determine if it has been tampered with.
permalink parent [] gobstopper84 1 point 8 days ago

I owned a car one time that had a typo on the carfax odometer report. When I bought a new car, I only got 50% of the KBB value for it because of this little typo. Made me sad.
permalink parent [] mizterPatato 1 point 8 days ago

Can I get the Hank Hill deal? Sticker price, no more no less.
permalink parent

load more comments (1 reply) [] dynasonic 1 point 8 days ago

Just so people are aware... a Car Fax report only shows a wreck if that wreck was reported to an insurance company. I purchased a car that was used by the dealer as a loaner car, wrecked, then fixed by the dealer and had a clean car fax report. Thus when I took it in a few months after purchasing it to see why all the paint was falling off the back of the car, I was surprised to hear it had at one point been wrecked so bad that the entire back end of the car had been replaced. Since the dealer did the work did not report it to insurance, I thought I was getting a good deal on a used Corolla. My suggestion to everyone buying a used car is to pay $50 and take it to an independent mechanic and have them inspect the car. It is a small inconvenience and a small price to

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Hey everyone I am A New and Used Car Salesperson here to help Reddit...

http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

pay to make sure you aren't getting fleeced like I did.


permalink parent [] TommyFoolery 2 points 7 days ago

This should always be done before buying a car. Most local shops (and always go with one you know already) only charge around $50 for a car sale inspection. They will undoubtedly uncover things with every car. The important part is knowing what they are and whether or not they are important.
permalink parent [] jgreenz 26 points 9 days ago

Show me the car fox!


permalink parent [] TheOrcTank 52 points 9 days ago

Can't let you do that, car fox!


permalink parent [] Pidgey_OP 11 points 9 days ago

Wolf?!
permalink parent [] forgotten_taco 12 points 8 days ago

noooooo!! my emperor! i have failed youuuu!!!


permalink parent [] decimalsanddollars 2 points 8 days ago

The engine smoked reeeeaaaaallllllbgood before it died


permalink parent [] WGeorgeCook 1 point 8 days ago

Barrel roll?
permalink parent [] seanayb 1 point 8 days ago

Relevant
permalink parent

load more comments (5 replies) [] squarl 4 points 9 days ago

On a carfax, when it says there was a accident reported but no significant damage or w/e, what exactly does this mean? should I still be worried about it? should I use it as a bargaining point?
permalink parent

load more comments (1 reply) [] Rafikithemonkey 1 point 8 days ago

If you want to just check if the car has ever been totaled and salvaged (to avoid title-washed cars) you can use this site to check the vin for free if a carfax is not freely offered. It's saved me twice. https://www.nicb.org/theft_and_fraud_awareness/vincheck/vincheck
permalink parent [] andres7832 1 point 8 days ago

CarFax information is voluntarily reported not mandated. Not fully reliable information, as much as CarFax would like you to believe.
permalink parent [] ThankYouDriveThrough 2 points 8 days ago

I question this entire thread now. Car fax is shit. No one whatsoever is obligated to report anything to car fax. I've purchased multiple cars that had excessive and severe frame

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2/6/2013 5:34 PM

Hey everyone I am A New and Used Car Salesperson here to help Reddit...

http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

damage and all of them had a completely clean car fax. Leased cars are the worst. Car places will have their own mechanics fix and conceal damage on their leased car that was in an accident rather than dealing with an insurance company.
permalink parent [] tonybanks 1 point 8 days ago

You forgot does it have a secret warranty too?


permalink parent [] tonyjnel 1 point 8 days ago

Should we accept car fox as an alternative?


permalink parent [] Smelly_dildo 1 point 8 days ago

I've seen things reported to Autocheck that weren't reported to Car Fax, and I'm sure causes of vice versa exist. It's best to check both IMO.
permalink parent

load more comments (5 replies) [] HB24 2 points 8 days ago

One piece of advice I have learned from experience BEFORE going to a lot, is to always take two sets of keys for your car. They have a tactic where they will take your car keys claiming it is for collateral reasons, but then during the price negotiation they do not bring your keys back. It is a little game they like to play to trap you there...
permalink parent [] I-missed-the-point 43 points 9 days ago

Could I trade you some premium swamp land for a used Mazda?
permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 64 points 9 days ago

I would accept this.


permalink parent [] FlamingTelepath 6 points 8 days ago

I offer one of these.


permalink parent

load more comments (5 replies) [] mdwdirect 1 point 15 hours ago

Dope As Fuck Cook? I'm confused. I thought you sold cars. WALTER WHITE!! IT'S YOU!
permalink parent

load more comments (3 replies) [] whenitistime 1 point 8 days ago

you're going to kick yourself when you realize underneath that swamp is a vast oil field...
permalink parent [] kevin11040 40 points 9 days ago

What is the craziest thing that you have done to make a sale?
permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 188 points 9 days ago

I solved a rubiks cube for a customer. And one time as a joke I put a picture of a baby on my desk in a frame, my manager wasn't too happy about that one, then I got a customer, forgot about the framed picture and she ended up buying a car and asking about the baby. I couldn't help but to respond yes that is my baby, and then cringe. Somehow I played it off, made up a key & peele name for the baby and the whole 9 yards. RIP Baby Picture

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Hey everyone I am A New and Used Car Salesperson here to help Reddit...

http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

permalink

parent

[] athanasius41188 121 points 9 days ago

Hingle McCringleberry!
permalink parent [] bluefish3000 31 points 8 days ago

Xmus Jaxon Flaxon-Waxon, California University of Pennsylvania


permalink parent [] schlazz 24 points 9 days ago

D'isiah T. Billings-Clyde
permalink parent [] captainhendrix 11 points 8 days ago

Clyyyyyyyyde
permalink parent [] Tmalla 22 points 9 days ago

"construction noise"
permalink parent [] porquenohoy 7 points 8 days ago

Nevada State...Penitentiary
permalink parent [] ipromack 5 points 8 days ago

EEEEEEEEE EEEEEE
permalink parent [] OoooShinyThings 20 points 9 days ago

My favorite video on the internet right now.


permalink parent [] HayKingMose 16 points 8 days ago

Scoish Veloci-Raptor Maloish


permalink parent [] HerrKruger 14 points 8 days ago

Quatro-Quatro
permalink parent [] freshmanfreddie 18 points 9 days ago

Nah man. Streetlamp La'Moose.


permalink parent [] killiangray 4 points 8 days ago

The Baby Formerly Known as Mousecop


permalink parent [] imaunitard 4 points 8 days ago

Donkey Teeth
permalink parent [] SorenDaBoss 4 points 8 days ago

Smootchie-Wallace
permalink parent [] aiiye 1 point 8 days ago

DONKEY TEETH. Nevada State. Penitentiary.


permalink parent [] Ghooble 1 point 8 days ago

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Hey everyone I am A New and Used Car Salesperson here to help Reddit...

http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

Funny thing about that


permalink parent [] BruschiOnTap 18 points 8 days ago

X-Wing @ Aliciousness
permalink parent [] Fuck_Your_Squirtle 1 point 8 days ago

Missouri Western State.. University


permalink parent [] neurot 12 points 8 days ago

Joey Joe Joe Jr. Shabadoo


permalink parent [] Asgard_Ent 3 points 8 days ago

That's the worst name I've ever heard.


permalink parent

load more comments (1 reply) [] Aeonitus 9 points 8 days ago

So then Dan Smith, right?


permalink parent [] ojavaNehThcaZ 3 points 9 days ago

Manager not happy about it?!? Sounds like a decent manager.


permalink parent [] Fuck_Your_Squirtle 1 point 8 days ago

baby forest whitaker


permalink parent [] bard329 1 point 8 days ago

I sold used cars for 6 months while in school. I was majoring in mechanical engineering at the time. I had a customer who was very friendly ask about my education. Turns out he was an electrical engineer. Bought a car and told me if I did well that semester he'd come back and buy another car from me. He came back a few months later to buy a car from me for his kid.
permalink parent [] kevin11040 33 points 9 days ago

What is the biggest sale that you have made?


permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 52 points 9 days ago

I had a 5 grand deal on a brand new Specialty Laramie Truck. Specialty vehicles can have dealer profits of anywhere from 5k - 20k.
permalink parent [] Trollolocalypse 49 points 9 days ago

DCJ salesman here, I make 10k on every Viper I sell. Although, just so everyone knows he is talking about the dealership's profit and not his own profit. There is no way he could possibly make $5,000 on one truck. The profit margin isn't that large. Salesmen make anywhere from 15-25% commission on sales. So, in order to make $5,000 the dealership would've had to make at least $20,000 which is 100% impossible. Markup is never that high. I could provide an invoice showing you guys how much money is really being made on cars if there is any interest.
permalink parent [] raging_asshole 19 points 9 days ago

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Hey everyone I am A New and Used Car Salesperson here to help Reddit...

http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

So the car salesman only makes a percentage of the profit? Meaning that if they have to drop the price to near-cost or minimum resale, they get little to no pay from the sale? And are they typically paid by commission only, or is it common to expect some kind of hourly or salary, plus commission?
permalink parent [] JeffTheLess 23 points 9 days ago

Chevy sales here, though only in the business for half a year. It is common for dealerships to have a minimum commission on a deal or "Mini", if the mini is larger than your percent commission on a deal you get the mini instead. My mini is a little over $100, so if a deal is going to make less than $500 for the dealership, the dealership could be losing money for all I care, my cut is the same. Though in general, managers don't let losing money deals happen. Also you make an hourly rate of minimum wage up to 40 hours a week, but only if that amount is higher than your comission earned from that same week. At least the above is how my dealership handles things, could be I'm being screwed.
permalink parent [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 24 points 9 days ago

Nope the above is correct. Come join me and help get exposure for /r/askcarsales
permalink parent [] toastedtobacco 1 point 8 days ago

At my dealership you have to pay back your minimum wage =[


permalink parent

load more comments (2 replies) [] BillyfrmPhilly91 2 points 8 days ago

used car sales man here. I dont make shit. If i dont sell a car I dont get taco bell. no minimum wage. only get paid once a month. and all my managers are dicks. this industry sucks
permalink parent [] Cleric7x9 1 point 8 days ago

hi there, im going to be buying a 2013 tahoe soon. anything i should know?


permalink parent

load more comments (1 reply) [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 22 points 9 days ago

The above is correct come join me and help get expose for /r/askcarsales
permalink parent [] reaperw2 1 point 9 days ago

Obviously also depends on the car. Previous high-end salesman here. I would make these commissions monthly. As I'm sure you already know, it depends on the car's back-end. New cars usually aren't where the profit is, it's all about used cars.
permalink parent [] [deleted] 1 point 8 days ago

hell yeah, let's see it!


permalink parent [] seafood10 1 point 8 days ago

Hey, I am in the market for a Ram Cummins Mega Cab 4x4 loaded and would really like to see the invoice on that, please, I don't want to get ripped off as I am bad at negotiating and would like to have some knowledge. Thanks
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http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

load more comments (2 replies) [] makspinky 1 point 8 days ago

It's entirely possible to make 5k commission on one deal. It's not easy by any means but it's possible. I make 25% on the front, and just had a $3100 commission on a 2010 Honda Civic less than 30 days ago. Sold the Civic for $4000 over cost, and held back $8000 from what the ACV of the trade was. I happen to agree with you though, OP meant a 5k "profit to the dealer" deal, and to him thats a big deal, as it doesn't sound like he is great at holding gross.
permalink parent

load more comments (4 replies) [] the_top_gun_Demamp 2 points 8 days ago

Not impossible, but highly unlikely for a truck. I used to be a finance manager for a Bentley/RR dealership, and when the Continental GT came out in the early 2000's, we were getting $100k OVER MSRP on them. Commissions for the salespeople were around $15k. RR Drophead Coupes were getting $200k OVER and I saw commissions in the $30k range. I personally saw monthly commission sheets with over $100k on it. FOR ONE SALESPERSON. It was a good time to sell high end cars.
permalink parent [] digital_chef 1 point 8 days ago

yes, there is interest.


permalink parent [] ilovewiffleball 1 point 8 days ago

I'd like to see the invoice, for what it's worth.


permalink parent [] RealBiscuit 1 point 8 days ago

I worked for Hyundai for 3 years they gave 25% for profit 0-$1199, 30% for $1200-$1799, and 35% on $1800+ I've closed an $7800 deal leaving me with a nice $2800 in my pocket. That's the biggest deal I've ever sold. How about yours? Do you ever feel guilty when you crack someone with a fat deal?
permalink parent [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 1 point 6 days ago

Just so you know we have a New Corvette in stock that has 20k Markup and the Ford GT's used to have 25k.
permalink parent

load more comments (2 replies) [] rildchaper9988 30 points 9 days ago

Whats the biggest mistake people make when buying a new or used car?
permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 51 points 9 days ago

I want to say getting emotionally attached before working numbers. But I know there are plenty more than just that.
permalink parent [] rildchaper9988 7 points 9 days ago

Emotionally attatched meaning that they buy a car they cant afford? If so, do you ever try to talk someone down to car that is more reasonable for them to afford?
permalink parent [] reaperw2 12 points 9 days ago

I also used to sell cars. What he means is they may be able to afford it, but showing you love a car before you discuss numbers is a disadvantage in sales negotiations. It shows the salesman that you are more likely to do more than necessary to buy something,

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Hey everyone I am A New and Used Car Salesperson here to help Reddit...

http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

which usually means more profit for the salesman/dealer as well.


permalink parent [] rildchaper9988 2 points 9 days ago

Understood. Thanks!
permalink parent [] bluefish3000 11 points 8 days ago

I bought a car a year ago. I wanted to talk price but the salesperson really, really wanted me to pick a color first. At that point I gave 0 fucks about color, but he kept persisting. I'm sure it was a tactic to start me thinking about a hypothetical car as 'my car.'
permalink parent [] jhdeval 3 points 8 days ago

This is a common sales technique called transfer of ownership. If the sales person hands you the key or product they are transferring it to you. Another way is the sales person to have a hands off approach IE place it on the counter towards the customer. Picking the color/model is a similar effect. The emotional attachment is something you can use to your advantage. I got a decent deal on a used Dodge Charger recently. I did a lot of research and found the going price. When I went in I picked the car I wanted yes I showed interest but when it came down to the bottom line I held my ground to as to the price. You must be willing to walk because that is the ONLY thing you have as leverage in the deal.
permalink parent

load more comments (2 replies) [] HUMOROUSGOAT 13 points 9 days ago

it means you need a good pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-poker face


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load more comments (4 replies) [] caturdaynauplz 1 point 8 days ago

I would also tell the good folks of reddit to wait to tell a dealer you have a trade until they give you the final numbers for a vehicle. Lowest they are willing to go. If you tell them from the get go that you have a trade, they rework the purchase order to make it seem like you are getting a really good deal. When in all actuality, they are just moving numbers around.
permalink parent [] zswagz 30 points 9 days ago

How would I get the lowest price possible on a vehicle?


permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 46 points 9 days ago

On a new vehicle you would have to know the invoice price of it and would have to know all the available incentives. That is the only way to insure a dealer will make a 0$ profit, which they have no problem doing to make a unit move. And if it's an old old old unit/demo they may be willing to sell it at a loss to make it go away as it fines the managers for having it. On a used car that is a little more difficult to describe.
permalink parent [] HB24 12 points 8 days ago

A few years ago I test drove a car that was close to home, but it had to many bells and whistles putting it WAY out of my price range. I just wanted to check out the model before I drove an hour to test drive the one in my price range (used car). It was a rainy Wednesday and I got a rookie salesman. The car was exactly what I was looking for, but there was no way I could pay what they wanted. It took a while, but they came down to my price ($11K to $7.5K). I did not force it or anything, just said that was my price and never went any higher.

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I imagine it was the only car they sold that day, and the power bill was due.... I sold the car four years later for $7.4K.
permalink parent [] KiwiLicker 1 point 7 days ago

You, sir, are an excellent negotiator. Can you share the make/model of the car in question?
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load more comments (3 replies) [] HobbesWorld 10 points 9 days ago

Ok - how about a few pointers on used cars? Looking to close a deal soon. Thanks!
permalink parent [] ojavaNehThcaZ 19 points 9 days ago

Go to Nada and find your car and request the price of the lowest trade in value in that car. Demand it. The dealership will conform. Trust me.
permalink parent [] Trollolocalypse 10 points 8 days ago

With used cars your best bet is finding the black book value. Do NOT use blue book. Blue book is useless. If you can find the black book value, that is for the MOST part what dealers pay close to for a vehicle. I also wholesale cars for my own company on the side. So, if black book value of the car you're looking for is $12,000 then the dealer probably paid $10,000-$10,500 for it. Try to negotiate close to that price point. If you can get it at black book value then you got a good deal. Also, don't forget to try and find the same car at multiple dealerships so you can play the game back and forth with counteroffers if someone wont budge enough for your liking.
permalink parent [] Raalf 8 points 8 days ago

I've never heard the term "black book value". What is this, and is it something accessible by non-dealers?
permalink parent [] Quadell 2 points 8 days ago

It's the third option at http://www.cudlautosmart.com/Research /TradeInValues.aspx


permalink parent [] InformedIgnorance 2 points 8 days ago

Buying my used car (and I will fully admit this was with my fathers help) we asked to see their net costs for the car and asked them what they thought was a reasonable profit. They (of course) initially refused, but when you say you'll just find a different dealership then (easy enough) they'll comply. Got a 2007 Civic last year brought down $4,000 that way.
permalink parent [] mikeyfromsd 7 points 8 days ago

To add to this, you can actually go below invoice price on a new car. There is a thing called holdback, which is actually advertising dollars and other costs that are calculated in to ensure the dealership actually makes money when they sell the car "at invoice price". Find out how many days the car has been on the lot. If its been on the lot, I believe, over 90 days, they have to start paying the company that loaned them the money to purchase the car to sell on the lot in the first place. Used cars are a lot different in calculating how low you can possibly go when buying a used car. The best ballpark figure I can get for a friend when we are looking for used cars is find the car you want, go onto edmunds and kelly blue book, punch the car in as if you are selling it. Find that number, subtract 500-1000, and that's around what they took the car in

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for. Also, when purchasing a car, start off with an out the door deal, then start with financing for your monthly payment (Work on your own pre-approval paperwork for a loan from your bank and see if they can beat it), and then work on your trade-in, if you have one. There are tons of ways dealerships make money in each of these steps, so if you break it down step by step, there is less chance they can slide in a couple of bucks. Last but not least, don't be afraid to walk off of the lot if you don't think you are getting the best deal. More than likely if you are going to walk the manager will try to see what it will take to drive away. A person who is that far into the buying process will buy a car that day, whether it be from them or from someone else. They will do what it takes to try and get you to buy if you are that serious of a buyer. Source: Ex-car salesman.
permalink parent [] superprofundo 1 point 8 days ago

What is "old" in terms of a car on the lot, both new and used? And can we trust the listing dates of cars online like truecar.com, or should we keep track of those ourselves?
permalink parent [] syncboy 1 point 8 days ago

How does one find out about dealer incentives in figuring this out? Getting the invoice price is easy, but I've heard that the car companies will sometimes give the dealer (let's say) $500 to sell a car.
permalink parent [] Qubeye 2 points 8 days ago

When I purchased my Impreza, I used a few tricks I learned from "The Predictioneer's Game" by Bruce Bueno de Mesquita. 1) Don't buy the car at the lot. The only reason to go to the lot is to test-drive the cars you are looking at and make a better decision about what you want. 2) Know EXACTLY what you want in the car, down to details like cruise control and other minor features. Make a list of things you MUST have, and things you WANT to have. 3) Call the dealer and ask for an exact quote, including taxes and fees. I kept asking for a walk-out price on the phone until they gave it to me. 4) Call a competitor and ask for their lowest bid, telling them what the previous lowest bid offer was. 5) Repeat 4 until you've run out of dealers, basically. 6) Go buy the car! I got my car for about $800 under invoice price. I felt very accomplished.
permalink parent [] ninjagl 1 point 8 days ago

Will most dealers give you the invoice price if you ask?
permalink parent [] itookyourjob 27 points 9 days ago

What is the best season/month to buy a car? Worst? Also, whats the best method of haggling a good price?
permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 48 points 9 days ago

January and on for last years models, incentives are hella high. Worst? right when a vehicle releases. No incentives, dealers can charge over sticker price because "everyone" wants this car.
permalink parent [] andersonlive 6 points 8 days ago

Scion FR-S

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[] Llanolinn 1 point 8 days ago

I've been eyeing those... Sexy fuckers. The Subaru version isn't too bad either, but I think Im partial to the FR-S
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load more comments (1 reply) [] CurlyPants 2 points 8 days ago

Actually I have found that on some vehicles the incentives are better in December rather than January in an effort to get rid of last year's models before the new year. Chevy did this with Cruzes, Malibus, and Silverados this year to be more specific.
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load more comments (3 replies) [] hesbunky 1 point 8 days ago

Best is in winter. January is usually the slowest and they have the most leftover inventory so they'll cut some deals. Worst is March/April - thats when everyone is buying a car. If you aren't 100% ready to buy a car that day, good luck getting a sales persons attention, because they know the person behind you will probably be ready to buy a car and they want their commission.
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load more comments (3 replies) [] thekev506 25 points 9 days ago

What's the one thing people don't pay enough attention to when buying a used car?
permalink [] CurlyPants 13 points 8 days ago

The price relative to the vehicle. I sell cars as well and I get people that come in sometimes and tell me what a great deal they got when they bought the car they are trading in used. When I show them the carfax and tell them they have a branded title they seem shocked. If the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
permalink parent [] camconcay 3 points 8 days ago

I purchased a car and later found out it had a branded title (not a salvage title) due to original purchase dealer buy back. there is nothing wrong with the car now but the branded title apparently makes it far less valuable. This was not disclosed to me at purchase and I only found out when I tied to trade it. Do I have any recourse? How much does a dealer buy back hurt the value?
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load more comments (4 replies) [] Randomness425 1 point 8 days ago

How should u determine an appropriate price? Kelly blue book value? What if the car was damage can u negotiate down? How much is reasonable?
permalink parent [] CurlyPants 3 points 8 days ago

Kelly blue book is a good guide, but it's not the end all be all. Ultimately they don't buy cars. In most cases it's probably not the best idea to buy a vehicle with a branded title because you likely can't/don't know what the damage is and therefore an appropriate price isn't easy to determine. If you are looking for car x and every other car x out there is $1000 more expensive, make sure you get the history on the cheap one before thinking you got a good deal. There's usually a reason a vehicle is marked down really far, just be aware of what that reason is.

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[] kgb26 2 points 8 days ago

What does "branded title" mean?


permalink parent [] CurlyPants 3 points 8 days ago

It's a permanent mark on the title of a vehicle to indicate some sort of problem. Some of these might include a vehicle that was written off as a "total loss" or a vehicle that has flood damage.
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load more comments (2 replies) [] thebluick 1 point 8 days ago

What is a branded title?


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load more comments (1 reply) [] PyroZach 15 points 9 days ago

I'm looking for a new(er) truck right now. Found one I like but they don't seem to want to give me a fair trade in. I looked at both KBB and edmunds. Suggested trade in on my suv is around 5k, private sale around 6,500 dealer retail around 7k. The truck I'm looking at has a trade in of around 7k, private around 9, and dealer around 10k They're asking 10,800 on the truck and only want to give me 2,500 for the trade in. All my suv would need is a detail and maybe a muffler. It looks like he has A LOT of room for profit on this based on the numbers I found. Am I missing something? am I being swindled? or should I just give up on this trade in/truck and keep looking?
permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 59 points 9 days ago

Don't give up, make an offer and make it final. Say exactly what you want to happen and don't make it unreasonable. Say no negotiations, one offer and if you can't make it happen you will continue shopping. Say 10k for the truck and 4k for your trade or how ever you want. They say no, no hard feelings turn around and walk away, see if they go running after you.
permalink parent [] clearsimpleplain 41 points 8 days ago

How far have you ever ran after a customer?


permalink parent [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 58 points 8 days ago

For sex or for a sale?


permalink parent [] InformedIgnorance 31 points 8 days ago

Standard car salesman response.


permalink parent [] zhiryst 3 points 8 days ago

Still waiting for an answer to both


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load more comments (1 reply) [] floraphalliphobic 7 points 8 days ago

It's all the same, as long as they get fucked.


permalink parent [] holyshock 1 point 8 days ago

It's all the same if they're fucking somebody

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[] LustrousWS6 2 points 8 days ago

They all do...


permalink parent [] iLLuZsiVe 1 point 7 days ago

Toyota salesman here, it depends on a mixture of how nice the customer is and how profitable the deal is. I have drove back and forth to a clients house to get paper work done and delivered their car straight to their house. They lived about 20 minutes away from the dealership.
permalink parent [] ilikebikes 11 points 8 days ago

If you have a CarMax in the area take your SUV there to get an appraisal. It's free and you can use their offer as leverage against the dealership with the truck. CarMax will give you 7 days to accept the offer if you do decide to go that route but you aren't forced into deciding on the spot. I used this recently to get another $2500 on trade in from my wife's car.
permalink parent [] Freakazoid84 18 points 9 days ago

You're admitting the car needs work, but then are surprised you're being lowballed? If it's bad enough you think it needs a muffler and a detail, then do the muffler and detail. It works the same way in private party transactions (just like houses), people generally don't want to do work on the purchases they make. If there's anything wrong with it, the value of the car takes a nice chunk. Also don't forget KBB greatly overestimates their numbers as well. (generally speaking)
permalink parent [] PyroZach 2 points 9 days ago

I never mentioned the muffler but did see a small hole in it last time I was under it. And we're in northeast PA, where there's about an inch of salt on the roads right now, unless I detailed it in their lot it's going to need to be cleaned again. The appraiser even said it was one of few in very nice shape, then $2500 is the number the sales person went with. The number Edmund's gave was similar, It seems like they'd still easily pull a few grand profit on both vehicles. Just how much do they need to make on a sale like this? Can I expect to get close what the trades are listed as or should I give up on this one?
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load more comments (3 replies) [] nation12 4 points 8 days ago

If you have a Carmax anywhere nearby, try selling your car to them, or at least get a quote that you can take to the dealer. I just sold a car to them and was happy with what I got for it ($1k more than expected).
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load more comments (1 reply) [] DrinkB4UThink 4 points 8 days ago

Trading in a vehicle at a dealership or car lot is comprable to trading in a video game at Gamestop. You get hosed. Try selling your SUV on eBay, AutoTrader or Craigslist.
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load more comments (1 reply) [] raziphel 2 points 9 days ago

if there's a truck at one lot you like, find a different lot from another dealer (staying within the brand). dealers can and will sell cars from other dealer's lots.

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load more comments (1 reply) [] mskeepa19 1 point 8 days ago

As someone who worked at a dealership appraising cars and such I will give you this much advice: don't trust KBB. I found they almost always overvalued cars. Often times customers would come in with a value on their car according to blue book, and they were always dissapointed to learn that we simply would not settle on that price. KBB is a scam.
permalink parent [] atechnicnate 1 point 8 days ago

I used to run into this all the time and one thing to keep in mind is book value vs. location. What I mean by this is that usually KBB is higher (at least in the NW corner) but it wasn't really the area standard. We actually used NADA for both new and used values but people would like to come in demanding KBB values for their trade and it just wasn't going to happen.
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load more comments (2 replies) [] LiquidEnvy 1 point 8 days ago

Don't use KBB to base trade value. It's absurdly high. Your best bet is Edmunds. If your car needs a new muffler and is well used pick the second lowest category.
permalink parent [] StarOfFate 1 point 8 days ago

His response is actually a good one. A lot of times when you make a "no negotiations" offer like that, the manager will either decline it or counter it anyway to try and make more money. If you give them your info and walk out, you'd be surprised how quickly they will call you back on a reasonable offer. When I bought my car, I looked up all the numbers, and gave them an offer I thought included a reasonable profit while still being affordable on my end. I offered to pay cash right then and there, and they said no. I was maybe two minutes away from the dealership when they called me and said thy'd be willing to sign on that after all. Don't give up!
permalink parent [] fuges21 18 points 9 days ago

Let's say I have gone through all of college and Pharmacy school without a car. I have about 8 grand saved up and need to buy a car for my upcoming year of rotations. What would you recommend? Should I look at car lots? Or maybe buy from someone selling a car personally? Any make/model I should look at? Thanks!!
permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 45 points 9 days ago

If you just graduated within the last 6 months you qualify for a first time buyers/graduate program through most Automakers, This ensures you won't get fucked on an interest rate on your first vehicle because you have a 0 credit score. Also if you have 8 grand down you can get anything you want but set a budget for yourself. Try to get within a payment that you can feel safe with for only 4 years, by stretching terms (which salespeople will commonly go to in order to get someone in a payment range and maximize profits) you just put yourself under the gun for further un-needed interest charges. And don't put all 8 grand down, 5 should be plenty to put you in a positive equity situation for several years down the road.
permalink parent [] fuges21 2 points 9 days ago

Thanks for the great reply!


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[] Daimonin_123 1 point 8 days ago

Is it better to get a vehicle (new or used) using long term payments, or is it better to have cash on hand for a straight up purchase?
permalink parent [] St1ffM1st3r 51 points 9 days ago

Dude, you have 8 grand saved up?!?!? Go to craigslist! Seriously man think about this: You've got 8,000$. That's enough for a variety of vehicles that you could OWN. Your biggest source of wealth is your income. Why would you want to limit that wealth? You could instead own your vehicle, and not have to suck the proverbial dick of the credit companies. All i'm saying is, if given the option, 8 grand will take you a LONG way in the private sale market. You should seriously take a look man.
permalink parent [] Gigavoyant 4 points 8 days ago

Seriously, buy a used car from a private owner. I'm hoping to snag a 2003 Civic for $3500. Gotta take it to the mechanic and check it out and whatnot, but that car will last me a good 60K-80K more miles, easy for only $3500 (or less if I can talk him down).
permalink parent [] saltywings 6 points 8 days ago

I got a great deal from some guy who left his car in America while he was doing mission trips, brand new 2012 model for only 5k. I only had to send the cash through moneygram and then I get the car! /sarcasm, don't fall for the scams on craigslist I have had multiple friends say they found a great deal and I look at the post, laugh, and tell them they are an idiot.
permalink parent [] fuges21 2 points 8 days ago

Great advice, and I will definitely be checking out the private market. I'm hoping for a reliable car to last me a good three years without any issues. Once I have a paycheck coming in I will start worrying about buying a car with a car payment attached.
permalink parent [] opsomath 1 point 8 days ago

For real. I got a used VW that I freaking love for around half what this guy has.
permalink parent [] MagnusT 1 point 8 days ago

Or you can get a 2% interest rate, and pay almost nothing extra on a three year loan.
permalink parent [] i_banged_your_moms 1 point 8 days ago

8 grand is a lot of money to put down on a new car. so you spend 8 grand on a privte car..what says the dude took care of it. somethings can break. next thing you know your 8k car is now costing you 2500 in repairs. with a new car, you would be able to not have to worry about parts breaking and you would be building credit, not sucking the dick. credit helps you in life. even though it sucks, you need to build it...later down the road, perhaps you want to put a down payment on a house...you cant buy everything in cash all at once
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load more comments (1 reply) [] epicskeptic 1 point 8 days ago

This.....This is the best advice on this whole thread. Don't buy new, don't get a loan from the dealer because they will rape you. If you want to build credit, get a loan at the bank that

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you have the 8000 dollars in and use that as collateral or something. Bring a mechanic buddy with you.
permalink parent [] PurplePotamus 25 points 9 days ago

If 8 grand is how much you're willing to spend, I'd recommend a Scion from around 06. If you look hard enough, you should be able to find one for around $7k at around 80k miles on it. Since it's a Toyota, parts and repairs are cheap and they hold up pretty well anyhow. Plus 31 mpg ain't nothing to shake a stick at.
permalink parent [] JDSmith90 33 points 8 days ago

I'll shake a stick at whatever I want! shakes stick


permalink parent [] AntiAtavist 2 points 8 days ago

Hey! Stop it.


permalink parent [] holyshock 1 point 8 days ago

you made my morning.


permalink parent [] fuges21 1 point 8 days ago

I've always liked the look of a scion but don't know much about their reliability.
permalink parent [] PurplePotamus 3 points 8 days ago

Scion's are Toyota's, they just have a different name to appeal to a younger market. So however reliable you think Toyota is (very reliable in my experience), a Scion should be the same. To be honest though, I've only had mine for a couple of months, so I can't speak from experience
permalink parent [] andk1987 1 point 8 days ago

31 mpg...... 'murica, guy from the uk here if i had $8k/~5100 you could get an awesome used car private bought for that... without spending anything more, and 31mpg over here is considered piss poor baring in mind we pay 6.50/~$11 a gallon for petrol :) Case in point... http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201301255058522 /sort/default/usedcars/body-type/hatchback/transmission/manual/engine-size-cars /1-4l_to_1-6l/maximum-mileage/up_to_40000_miles/price-to/6000/quantity-of-doors /5/price-from/4000/onesearchad/used/onesearchad/nearlynew/onesearchad/new/page /1/radius/60/postcode/dn333af?logcode=p
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load more comments (6 replies) [] PillPod 2 points 8 days ago

Good luck on your rotations!


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load more comments (1 reply) [] craigwg 2 points 8 days ago

Don't finance anything. If you have $8000 for a car then your budget is $8000. Cars are a depreciating asset. With very rare exception any car you buy is going to lose value. Sunk cost. Unless you're buying Hitler's get away car or something. So, spend what you need to get the job done. If you're a grown up, buy a reliable car for less than $8000. Put the rest in a mutual fund and make your "car payment" to that mutual fund. Earn interest with your money, don't give

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interest it to banks. In 5 years when you get the itch for another new car you will have a MUCH larger amount to play with. If you're a real man do another $2000 car and conitnue investing. In a short amount of time the mutual fund will be buying you brand new cars for nothing. 5 years is NOTHING in the big scheme of things, so if you can handle driving a reliable beater for a few years this is the path for you. But if you decide you NEED a new car, so much that you're willing to finance it and make payments for 5 years, you can do that too. You will just be slave to the man probably for the rest of your life. Choose wisely and good luck!
permalink parent [] ccatlr 2 points 8 days ago

This seems appropriate. It's from a best of thread a day or two ago. Hopefully I've linked it correctly. http://www.reddit.com/tb/17e22g
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load more comments (1 reply) [] colemorris 0 points 8 days ago

Get a nice Honda Accord. I was in your shoes nearly exactly minus the major like two weeks ago. Put $9000 down on a Honda Accord in Silver from 2010 with 20K miles straight off lease. Got it for $15000 out the door and I'm happy as can be with the thing. Full inspection turned up no problems and the thing runs like a dream.
permalink parent [] scottevil110 16 points 9 days ago

1) Obviously this is going to vary from person to person, but do you ever knowingly sell someone on a car that you know they really shouldn't be trying to pay for? If so, do you feel any guilt, or do you figure that it's their responsibility to know what they can and can't handle as far as a payment goes? 2) When someone walks in already having done all their homework, worked out the math, all that jazz, are you happy because your job is far easier and you know there's a better chance of them buying, or are you disappointed because it means you may not get as good of a profit margin out of them?
permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 14 points 9 days ago

1) Yes I have before, Car Sales managers are on our dicks about selling vehicles and I've personally bumped someone $200+ in payment before over what they were comfortable with when they came in. Although most of these people really need a car and a lot of people can't get them done because of bad credit history. 2) It makes things more difficult on a used vehicle perspective but very easy on a new vehicle perspective. Regardless if I sell a vehicle for a $1 profit I still make $100 and it still counts as a unit out for me. Profit means nothing if you can't sell vehicles. It's about quantity not the quality of each profit.
permalink parent [] scottevil110 1 point 8 days ago

Awesome, that provides some insight; thanks!


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load more comments (8 replies) [] BuckStrickland 15 points 9 days ago

How often does someone pay sticker price? I'd imagine it happens once in a while but no one who pays it will ever admit to it.
permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 37 points 9 days ago

I like to call them Hank Hill's but yes they are quite rare. I'd say 1-3 times a month.
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[] redrocket87 8 points 8 days ago

I like to call them Hank Hill's but yes they are quite rare. I'd say 1-3 times a month. Do these hank hill's come back with some hippies and burn the whole lot? Lol
permalink parent [] BuckStrickland 5 points 8 days ago

It's the "special" deal, I tell ya hwhat.


permalink parent [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 3 points 7 days ago

god damn it I just now noticed your username. Have an upvote.


permalink parent [] i_have_spaghetti 5 points 8 days ago

I had an ex boyfriend do this. He said, "The sticker said it was $33,000, so I paid $33,000. What was I supposed to do?" He also got low-jack installed on his car that already had On Star. Not the brightest bulb....
permalink parent [] blazeplacid 1 point 8 days ago

That episode made me mad


permalink parent [] getpoked 2 points 8 days ago

I think it depends on the customer, I have a friend who just gets raped at the car dealer, he paid something like 40k for a v6 camaro. Tell him what you want he's just non confrontational. Pushovers make poor car shoppers. PS you should explain holdback to people!
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load more comments (1 reply) [] this_is_not_the_cia 13 points 9 days ago

I have a question for you. I recently traded in a 2007 Subaru impreza wrx sti limited for a 2013 Ford Escape. The dealership gave me $22k for the subaru and I only had to pay $11.6k on top of that for the escape. About four years ago, I was involved in an accident in the Subaru resulting in $17k of damage. There was no damage to the frame, and the only thing that had to be done to it was to put the car on the frame stretching/alignment machine. The dealership ran a carfax on my car before they agreed to purchase it, and they knew of the accident. There was no salvage title on the car. The insurance adjuster confirmed that there was no frame damage. I traded them the car and drove off in the Ford. A few days later, I got a call from the dealership accusing me of "misrepresenting" the condition of the car, and that they now want to reverse the deal. The dealership told me to return the ford, and that they cant sell the subaru in its current condition. They say the car has substantial frame damage and that I lied when I said it didnt. I contacted an attorney and they said that the dealership has no case. What do you think?
permalink [] vonWachtstein 17 points 8 days ago

You are not liable in any way. Refuse all contact with dealership. Most if not all states are "final sale" an seller is not responsible for car once the title has been signed over.
permalink parent [] this_is_not_the_cia 2 points 8 days ago

They are relying on a form that I signed. This "Customer Declaration Form" states that "To the best of my knowledge, said vehicle does not have a welded, or bent frame..." among many other points. In addition, on the back of the "vehicle cash purchase agreement or lease order" form, it states "Trade-in; Buyer's obligations. At the time I deliver the trade-in vehicle to you....I warrant (guarantee) that (b) the trade-in vehicle does not have a welded or bent frame". My lawyer says that he would argue that the Customer Declaration form supersedes the Vehicle Cash Purchase Agreement, and that to the best of my knowledge, I

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did not know the frame was bent (if it even is, they could be lying). Edit: Also all contact between the dealership and myself is going through my attorney.
permalink parent [] Rassenschande 6 points 8 days ago

I would not sweat it and follow the advice of your attorney. With some car business experience myself I can tell you that this happens occasionally and the dealer is just trying to make more money out of the deal. Its their fault. To the best of your knowledge it wasn't damaged. Keep in mind these guys will sell frame damaged cars to anyone as never requiring structural repairs. So theyre just getting beat at their own game, and you werent even trying to pull a fast one. The loss they get on the Subaru will be forgotten.
permalink parent [] this_is_not_the_cia 5 points 8 days ago

The only thing that concerns me is that the manager of the dealership called me and said verbatim "Bring back the Escape". I told him that I had no intention of doing so. He replied "Well I guess we'll have to get lawyers involved, but thats your choice". I told him to have a nice day, hung up, and lawyered up. Im wondering if this was mere posturing or if they will actually take this to court.
permalink parent [] Rassenschande 6 points 8 days ago

I will admit I'm no used car manager but I work directly with many. When their mouth is moving they are lying. I'd bet its not worth their time to lawyer up over a 5,000 dollar or less difference. They have losses in wholesale all the time. They cant always be right and make big profits on every car. I dont think he has any legal right to demand you bring the car back. He's trying to scare you. Its their fault. Someone didn't look hard enough at the car it is easy to find previous repair
permalink parent [] vonWachtstein 4 points 8 days ago*

Do not worry about lawyers. It's their way of trying to make you submissive. Ignore it. As of that paper you signed, well it's not worth paper it was printed on. Sleep well and enjoy your car. I am a little alarmed your attorney took time to even explain that disclosure agreement. He should have told you that dealership does not make laws and whatever fucked up policy they have is just their own. You follow federal and state laws. I even question their right to demand your signature. Have they not their own mechanic to look at the car before accepting it from you? If they inspected the car and bought it in then it's entirely on them. Once again enjoy your car and forget it. Let them call you. Next time inform ten you do not wish any further contact from them and you consider business with them concluded.
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load more comments (1 reply) [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 9 points 8 days ago

I would sue them.


permalink parent [] this_is_not_the_cia 2 points 8 days ago

On what grounds?
permalink parent [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 6 points 8 days ago

You signed a legally binding contract, THEIR legally binding contract. They know exactly

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what it details and no where in their does it say if we fuck ourselves the consumer has to pay for it. I would talk to an attorney about possible harassment chargers if they are persistent.
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load more comments (1 reply) [] kaydub88 5 points 8 days ago

You're in the right and all, but how are you going to say that there's no frame damage but it had to be placed on a frame alignment machine?
permalink parent [] Rassenschande 1 point 8 days ago

Not everyone is an expert on what exactly counts as frame damage. Im guessing the insurance company insisted the car didnt have frame damage and he likely took it at face value
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load more comments (2 replies) load more comments (2 replies) [] raabbasi 1 point 8 days ago

Where do you live that you had to pay $33,000 for a Ford Escape?
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load more comments (3 replies) [] Mariokartfever 62 points 9 days ago

DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK Car salesman, huh?


permalink [] imeanthat 40 points 9 days ago

He can cook up some mean Camry.


permalink parent [] strawberycreamcheese 9 points 9 days ago

In my language, corolla is a type of vegetable. It makes sense because when you cut it, it looks like a small crown.
permalink parent [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 33 points 9 days ago

Yes, 2 and 1/2 years. And still going.


permalink parent [] HoppyMcScragg 7 points 8 days ago

He smoked too much dope and got fired from his job as a cook.
permalink parent [] VonAether 2 points 8 days ago

Oh. That makes sense. I kept reading it as DOPE_AS_FUCK_COCK.


permalink parent [] Canard427 1 point 8 days ago

You obviously don't realize how much dope the average kitchen worker can do.
permalink parent [] Repoocrba 14 points 9 days ago

Will I get a better deal working over email with someone, or is face to face the way to go?
permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 20 points 9 days ago

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This could go both ways. But in the More so situation I would say Email.
permalink parent [] JeffTheLess 10 points 9 days ago

Especially with new cars. Route through the Brand name website and send your info to a few different dealerships in the area. They know they are competing against eachother from the moment they get your info.
permalink parent [] whenitistime 1 point 8 days ago

one pro tip: email them all with your request, and make sure all the dealerships emails are in the CC list.
permalink parent [] PurplePotamus 20 points 9 days ago

The trouble you get into is that it's really easy to scam somebody over email. In my most recent car search, I had 14 separate assholes try to scam me out of my cash. Some keys if you want to buy a car online: 1. Do an image search on any pictures they send you. They'll just skim pictures off a dealer site and post them online, so if you find the exact same image online, well they can just fuck off 2. "Well the car is in another state, so if you want it, I'll need you to pay for shipping and this deposit..." Fuck that. I see the car, if I like the car, then I pay cash. If that doesn't work for you, then fuck off. 3. You have to meet the person and see the car face to face. Realistically, there's no other way to be sure that the car exists. If they're unwilling to do that, then they can fuck off.
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[] kindabiglie 25 points 9 days ago

I think he means emailing the car dealerships directly, not posting an ad on Craigslist.
permalink parent [] PurplePotamus 6 points 9 days ago

Well, in that case, I've had better luck haggling in person. I usually email the dealership, try to work out a bottom basement price on the car, then when I get there in person, I'll point out this flaw and that flaw and squeeze another 500 bucks or so
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load more comments (2 replies) [] EnderbyEqualsD 1 point 8 days ago

When I recently bought a car I did everything via email. When it came time to make the purchase I walked in, test drove the car, and was done in under an hour. It was awesome.
permalink parent [] woooooahnellie 1 point 8 days ago

I once read a blog post where a pregnant woman was trying to buy a car, but knew she was being treated differently because of her sex. They would talk down to her, and insist that would get certain features "for the safety of the baby". She decided to use her husbands email account and was able to play hardball. There were two dealerships, one local and one about an hour away, that had the same make and model, but the local one wouldn't budge saying that she should buy from them because it would be easier to repair. Since, they wouldn't budge on the price, she said she was willing to go to the cheaper one. They folded, and she got the car she wanted, at a great price, and at the closer dealership. Win all around. Just based on her experience, I knew that email would be the best way for me to go because I am a terrible haggler and eager to get what I want instantaneously (I haven't had needed to buy a car yet though to try it out).

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[] Turst37 1 point 8 days ago

Bought my last car purely through email. Was awesome cause u found being ballsier about my demands easier.
permalink parent [] lonjaxson 31 points 9 days ago

I hope you're not a dick to your lot attendant(s). Most of the salespeople at the dealership I worked at were complete assholes (and perverts).
permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 42 points 9 days ago

Well I can't say that we don't talk between ourselves every time a fine lady walks on the lot.
permalink parent [] Reporting_the_facts 81 points 9 days ago

I'd like to take her for a test drive!


permalink parent [] TheGoodSedin 42 points 8 days ago

Do you come with the car?


permalink parent [] FilthyNinjaBreadMan 24 points 8 days ago

Oh you, hehehe!
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load more comments (3 replies) load more comments (2 replies) [] toastedtobacco 1 point 8 days ago

tori?
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load more comments (2 replies) [] Millencolinm3 11 points 9 days ago

How accurate is the Invoice Price? Is that really what the dealer paid for the car?
permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 13 points 9 days ago

If you purchase a new gutter, the contractor is going to give you an invoice. Is that what you paid for your gutter?
permalink parent [] TLinden31 8 points 9 days ago

I think maybe he means the sticker price. Meaning, how much lower (relative to the sticker price) should a car buyer expect to be able to go?
permalink parent [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 8 points 9 days ago

MSRP's differ depending on vehicle. On a Sport Mazda 2 their is $250 worth of markup from invoice to msrp. But the amount of dealer cash depends on the time of year you are purchasing. You could have 2-10k off on a single vehicle at a given time
permalink parent [] TLinden31 8 points 9 days ago

Do you think you can elaborate on this? Knowing the MSRP, where should the car buyer go from there?
permalink parent [] LiquidEnvy 3 points 8 days ago

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You can literally look up the invoice price of a new vehicle on Edmunds.com. I work for an Audi/VW dealer and have checked and they're very accurate. Dealers will be willing to sell cars at invoice, it's more about moving units and having happy customers than it is trying to get straight profit out of a new car sale. Dealers also make a decent profit on accessories (that are part of the MSRP and yet have stupid high margin) and on the financing. It's common for the dealer to get ~1% of the financing on, say 2.9% for 60 months. It's technically possible to negotiate lower than the advertised rate, especially on used vehicles, because some of that is dealer added profit. It's also pretty damn difficult.
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load more comments (1 reply) load more comments (3 replies) load more comments (3 replies) load more comments (1 reply) [] extremelyCombustible 6 points 8 days ago

On invoice prices: Invoice prices are pretty accurate on new cars, but most dealers will usually only present these to you in person and will not give this information over the phone (unless it is a particularly BAD sales person.) You may have to ask firmly to see it, but you can also find these online I believe. However, a few things to take into account that will affect their end pricing: 1) Financing can actually save you money. During certain times of the year, new car financing will net the dealer 1000-1500 dollars per unit. This is passed to you if you fight for it. 2) As manufacturers try to clear out old inventory in preparation for a new model, they tend to offer cash to the dealers for each unit sold. This is also used to bring your total price down. 3) Invoices will sometimes have an itemized list of things added to the vehicle, which are usually not accurate and can be negotiated.
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load more comments (1 reply) [] coucou22 11 points 9 days ago

Do you make profit if you sell extra warranty on the car ? I bought a used car and the seller was really pushing the 2 year extra warranty. Finally I ended up taking it thinking what the hell if somethings break it will be usefull. Yet everytime I had something to replace on the car it wasn't covered so I think unless the engine exploded not much was covered...
permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 10 points 9 days ago

Yes.
permalink parent [] dumpj 3 points 8 days ago

I'll tell you I bought it for my truck. I will also tell you I felt pretty stupid for buying it about a year later, I mean how can a Toyota ever break. Well after the normal warranty was up it started making some weird noise while in neutral (it's a manual) and when the AC was on. It took some back and forth with Toyota but they replaced my AC compressor, then my clutch and flywheel, then my entire trans. Finally fixed it with the new tranny but def saved a few bucks in the end.
permalink parent [] thebluick 1 point 8 days ago

never buy the extended warranties... It almost always seems like the warranty costs more than anything they will possibly cover.

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[] boredg 1 point 8 days ago

A friend of mine, around a month ago had his engine on his very recently purchased 08 subaru quite literally blow up* and it wasn't covered by his shitty 3rd party warranty. *He was 'testing' out his new purchase and accellerated from around 80k to 160k at which point engine lights galore and engine splutter, followed by a loud bang that's it for that engine.
permalink parent [] redbeast2 1 point 8 days ago

Brah, did you even read ze warranteh?


permalink parent [] HoneyBadger93 10 points 9 days ago

Nicest car you've sold? Used or new.


permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 31 points 9 days ago

F-150 Raptor SVT, I love them. I want one, it should be the international apocalypse vehicle.
permalink parent [] TFDDx 14 points 8 days ago

Was actually going to buy one, but a new house is more important at this time.
permalink parent [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 16 points 8 days ago

This genuinely made me laugh.


permalink parent [] TFDDx 1 point 8 days ago

Well that's awesome, but it's true. Wife is now pregnant and the home we have/had was a little too small to raise a family.
permalink parent [] opsomath 1 point 8 days ago

Me and my old Honda motorcycle are going to be scavenging these for their leaf springs when the zombies come dude. It's all about the gas mileage.
permalink parent [] ODBrunizz 1 point 8 days ago

I have plans to steal one from the dealership by my house should the apocalypse happen. It truly is a beast!
permalink parent [] mdave424 9 points 9 days ago

My question is, how reliable is it to buy a car from a non-native dealership? I.E. I bought a German car from a Ford dealership.
permalink [] squarl 9 points 9 days ago

So when I start talking about price and negotiating with a lot, 8 out of 10 times they try to get me to sign at the bottom of the price negotiation page, or w/e its called, before going and asking there manager if the price will work. Is this common practice or is it just my state? Is it legally binding? Personally I think it's complete bullshit as Im just talking price and I shouldnt have to be forced to sign anything until closing a deal. Most places say they want me to sign it just to show that Im serious, which is actually insulting to me.
permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 16 points 9 days ago

Common practice, Not just your state, Not at all legally binding.

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All they want is to prove to the managers that they aren't talking out of their ass and making shit up by they I mean your salesperson.
permalink parent [] squarl 2 points 9 days ago

lol, why would a sales person make up stuff? So it's more of a trust thing between the salesperson and the manager? that's kinda odd to me, can you explain why this is a thing?
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load more comments (1 reply) [] camconcay 1 point 8 days ago

Read it closely - most times it is giving permission to run a credit report as well so.
permalink parent [] Menir 8 points 9 days ago

What is the best advice you can give me to get a salesman to reduce the price on a vehicle I am looking to purchase?
permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 20 points 9 days ago

Make a fair offer, and if they say no then walk out. I guarantee you will get a call or they will run after you.
permalink parent [] Your_Gonna_Hate_This 13 points 9 days ago

What's a "fair offer" in terms of discount % against sticker price for new and used?
permalink parent [] ojavaNehThcaZ 5 points 9 days ago

Use Nada to find your cars value.


permalink parent [] mechabeast 2 points 8 days ago

A fair offer is whatever you feel you should pay really. Look into invoice prices a decide for yourself. Pick your car, your dealer (read reviews of the dealership too) and make your offer.
permalink [] scorpionstinger78 [ parent ] 25 points 9 days ago

What are some tricks of the trade to not get swindled from shady car salesmen. I understand not all are shady and I know they are in the business to make money as well but I know the mark-up can be pretty significant on cars. Thanks for doing the AMA!!
permalink [] Jaerdo 4 points 8 days ago

Im not a car salesperson but I have quite a bit of experience with them. Always get your own carproof / carfax. Take a look at the vin plate yourself and buy one. Seedy dealers will often have outdated, or even fake ones. Also always get an independent inspection. If they say no when you ask them, they are hiding something.
permalink parent [] jmonty42 6 points 8 days ago

You know it's funny that you ask to get an independent inspection. I just ask to take it for a test drive and that test drive happens to include a trip to my mechanic.
permalink parent [] Jaerdo 10 points 8 days ago

Asking the question gives me a chance to evaluate whether they are someone I would buy from or not in a quick and easy way. If they say no I turn around and leave, saves

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me the trouble.
permalink parent [] jmonty42 3 points 8 days ago

That makes sense, too.


permalink parent [] ninjaofwar 7 points 9 days ago

What's the most important thing to inspect for wear/damage when you are showing me a used car?
permalink [] TeamJim 9 points 9 days ago

The entire car. Honestly there's not just one thing that can tell you. Having been a mechanic for years and worked in 4 different shops I can tell you that in my experience that if you have a shop you know, take the car there and tell them you are looking to buy the car and want them to look it over for potential problems. I've done a LOT of these and saved a few people from sinking money into cars that seemed like a good deal but would have needed major repairs.
permalink parent [] Thud_Gunderson 10 points 9 days ago

Question for you - how the HELL do i get to the point where I have a "shop I know". I've only taken my car to the dealer and I'm under the impression that both it and any other place will probably be overcharging me. So whats the best way to find a "good" mechanic? Even reviews online are hard to trust, since I know that some people are dicks and reviews only show one side of the story.
permalink parent [] TeamJim 3 points 8 days ago

Word of mouth is always good. The dealers are usually the biggest con artists of them all. I would stay away from most big national chains. They are typically more pushy than independent shops, and normally have a higher turnover rate for employees due to lower pay (not always true, but generally so) so they generally have less experienced techs. Independent shops that have been around a long time usually have been successful for a reason, so that's a start. As far as online reviews, places like Angie's list are good for reviews. Ignore reviews on Google for the most part, because its usually only people who are upset about something who take the time to write a review. Also, the BBB ratings are worthless.
permalink parent [] 2cats2hats 3 points 9 days ago

Do you not have anyone in your social circles(work, hobbies, etc.) that uses an indy garage? Word of mouth is the best way.
permalink parent [] daigoba66 2 points 9 days ago

Find a place online that you like based on reviews. Take your car there. Talk to the mechanic and/or owner. Do they make a good first impression? If you're happy with the service (they fixed your problem) and the price seemed reasonable, then that's your shop. If not, try another one next time.
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load more comments (2 replies) [] reuvenshechter 6 points 9 days ago

Is buying a used car from an individual rather than a dealership generally a bad move? Also, when are the best times to try to buy both new and used cars?
permalink [] JeffTheLess 2 points 9 days ago

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I would never buy such a thing without taking it to a mechanic. Definitely more risky, but if the price is right...
permalink parent [] reddRad 5 points 8 days ago

Hey, stupid question.. if I'm selling a car, do I just let them take it to a mechanic? Do I go with them? Do they leave a big deposit? How does that work? Thanks for your time.
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load more comments (1 reply) [] gjmelenk 5 points 9 days ago

How does commission work for car sales? Is the percentage a flat rate or change on variables? (type/cost of car, new/used, etc)
permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 7 points 9 days ago

Both. A lot of dealerships give 20% Front 20% Back. A lot of dealerships do no commission and a flat $300-500 per car you sell. My dealership does $100 flat + 15% Front and 5% Back once you hit 8 cars. Front is the initial car profit and back is finance charges, and warranties. As you sell more those numbers go up.
permalink parent [] mechabeast 5 points 8 days ago

Wow, remind me to never leave the dealership I'm at


permalink parent [] gjmelenk 2 points 9 days ago

And is there a daily wage, or is it all commission based?


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load more comments (2 replies) [] raffytraffy 6 points 8 days ago

Is leasing a car a good idea?


permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 6 points 8 days ago

Excellent Idea if you like to trade into a new car every 3 years. What's not a good idea is putting money down on a lease.
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load more comments (3 replies) [] daedsiluap 10 points 9 days ago

If a family to whom you sell a car defaults on the payments, are you made aware of it? Can you tell right away if someone is going to end up having their car repossessed eventually?
permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 29 points 9 days ago

Nope, once the car leaves the lot it is now the finance companies property, I have no information in regards to them making on-time payments.
permalink parent [] kapslocks 1 point 8 days ago

Find reponut on YouTube This guy drives around filming his repos with multiple angles its pretty interesting and shows how the finance companies relate to their clients
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[] creep_nu 5 points 9 days ago

just how much of a load are cpo's? do you recommend to people to get a pre-purchase inspection or do you work for a higher pressure sales environment?
permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 13 points 9 days ago

CPO's are the way to go if you purchase a used vehicle. most of them have a 7-10 year or 100,000 mile power train warranty & a whole load of other benefits. Not to mention CPO's have to have 2 keys, they have to get a full tank of gas, they have to pass a more detailed inspection than just a normal used vehicle and the price doesn't differ at all.
permalink parent [] polski_zubr 9 points 9 days ago

full tank? why?


permalink parent [] Freakazoid84 6 points 9 days ago

requirement of the CPO status


permalink parent [] Angry_Neckbeard 6 points 9 days ago

What is CPO?
permalink parent [] Freakazoid84 11 points 9 days ago*

Certified Pre-Owned. Basically a manufacturer's seal of approval on the car as a used car. The OP's answer here is correct in that CPO's are the way to go, if you can get a good deal on it. The problem is they're usually quite a few thousand more than their non-certified counterparts.
permalink parent [] Chubbstock 2 points 9 days ago

Certified Pre-Owned. You'll see it on signs at the dealership usually. They advertise it a lot because honestly it's worth it. If you don't see it right away or the dealer doesn't say it right away, they don't have it.
permalink parent [] hogiewan 4 points 9 days ago

what is a CPO?
permalink parent [] TeamJim 15 points 9 days ago

Certified Pre-Owned
permalink parent [] uncleb0b 10 points 9 days ago

I like your answer better.


permalink parent [] [deleted] 9 days ago

[deleted]
permalink parent [] Goombatron 3 points 9 days ago

Tom Cruise
permalink parent [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 11 points 9 days ago

Tom Cruise

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load more comments (2 replies) [] kitkaitkat 2 points 9 days ago

Certified pre owned.


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load more comments (5 replies) [] kafrin 2 points 8 days ago

For real? I got a CPO toyota celica a few years ago, and only got one key. Now I feel jipped.
permalink parent [] Kicker774 2 points 8 days ago

From what I was told many years ago when I moonlighted as a Ford/Mazda salesman for 3 months ... There is a 100-some point checklist of components and systems that need to be inspected/fixed. When completed it's someone elses job to go through and find whats broken. They get paid a bonus for every item that's broken or ill-repaired. This prevents the mechanic from covering up a crack in a CV joint with bubblegum and calling it fixed. The process will obviously add to the price of a car but it can help with resale as well as provide some extra piece of mind.
permalink parent [] newderpette 2 points 8 days ago

2 keys, really? I bought a CPO here in VA and the dealership (Koons Tysons Toyota) only gave me one key! I wish I had known this.
permalink parent [] TiDoBos 5 points 9 days ago

What do you think of the mazdaspeed6?


permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 8 points 9 days ago

God damn they were awesome vehicles. Best part was the amount of passenger room they had and the fact they were AWD.
permalink parent [] ohnoletsgo 1 point 9 days ago

Chances of a return now the new 6 has been released? I'm still kicking myself for missing that boat the first time around...
permalink parent [] TiDoBos 1 point 8 days ago

I got a new '06 in january of 07...just put my 94,000th mile on it. It's getting old, which is kinda sad, but I plan on driving it into the ground.
permalink parent [] magister52 1 point 8 days ago

As an owner of a 2006 MazdaSpeed 6. I can confirm the above is accurate. Also, every service person is jealous when I bring my car in for oil changes/maintenance.
permalink parent [] Jaerdo 1 point 8 days ago

Except for the notorious turbocharger failure...


permalink parent [] trappedinthis 1 point 8 days ago

I owned one. Loved it. Except MPGs of course. Even modded and tuned, I was netting 20

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http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

mixed. Where as the MZR3 would get up to 30 mpgs on the hwy tuned.
permalink parent [] KiwiLicker 1 point 7 days ago

They are a sweet ride. I test drove an '06 last month, the salesperson didn't know anything about it, "Front wheel drive, definitely not a turbo." Alas, the whole engine bay was covered in rust and it would buck around at 4-5k RPMS. No go. Wish they made a wagon version.
permalink parent [] Bonesnapcall 6 points 9 days ago

Is it even worth it to buy a 3 year old car with 60+ thousand miles on it, or should I just by new? I live in Phoenix and people put 20k miles a year on a car easily.
permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 10 points 9 days ago

If it has a warranty, clean car-fax, the price is right and your happy with the vehicle then yes.
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load more comments (8 replies) [] Derpapotamus 3 points 9 days ago

Never, ever, EVER "just buy new"... it's such a ridiculous waste of money. Let other people make that mistake, and profit from it.
permalink parent [] TFDDx 9 points 8 days ago

I would have to disagree. Cash in hand goes a long way with buying a vehicle. When going for a new one, study yhe specific car, and learn what the value is. Once you are informed, you can get a car for a little over the price they payed, and way under sticker. All depends on cash and smarts. Source: Bought a 2008 Mustang brand new when I was 17. Sticker price 21, 999. Payed 16, 500. Put 11, 000 down and financed the rest. Payed off in 1 year.
permalink parent [] thrashpants 3 points 8 days ago

How the fuck did you have that much money as a 17 year old?
permalink parent [] ODBrunizz 4 points 8 days ago

Marijuana salesman.
permalink parent [] TFDDx 4 points 8 days ago

Working? Choosing to save instead of buying whatever my friends had. Selling things that were obtained as gifts from growing up. I started working small jobs since I was 13. Not hard to make 11k in 4 years when you dont have to spend any.
permalink parent [] phillyvanilly 3 points 8 days ago

Can you tell me how you had 11k to put down on a car when you were 17?!
permalink parent [] TFDDx 1 point 8 days ago

Working? Choosing to save instead of buying whatever my friends had. Selling things that were obtained as gifts from growing up. I started working small jobs since I was 13. Not hard to make 11k in 4 years when you dont have to spend any.
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load more comments (4 replies) load more comments (4 replies)

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http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

load more comments (7 replies) [] welcomeback19 6 points 9 days ago

What is the weirdest person or family you encountered?


permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 28 points 9 days ago

It's more or less stereotypes. Asians when purchasing a car bring the family, some lawn chairs, lunch, and they will be their 10 hours and not leave until they get exactly what they want. Indians, will bring the entire extended family to come shop for a vehicle. They will bring 2 cars worth of people and swamp you. It gets intense. This isn't for every stereotype here but these are the most common.
permalink parent [] Prantheman 15 points 8 days ago

I am Indian, and it's an intimidation factor. Not for the salesman, but the buyer. If he/she doesn't get a good bargain on the vehicle, he/she will be disowned by the family.
permalink parent [] eddywuu 5 points 8 days ago

I am Chinese and i will stay until i get my offer lol thats what i did for my purchase and it paid off. Keyword is patience and know when to leave
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load more comments (1 reply) [] luckytaurus 5 points 9 days ago

If I wanted to spend up to 10,000 on a car, which car would you recommend me and why?
permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 20 points 9 days ago

A Honda, Mazda or Toyota. Reliable, Easy to repair & inexpensive to maintain. Not to mention they will run forever and hold a good amount of resale value.
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load more comments (5 replies) [] reaperw2 4 points 9 days ago

Thanks for doing this AMA. I also used to work in new/used car sales for a high end manufacturer, eventually becoming sales manager. I hope you don't mind if I answer some questions as well. Not to hijack or anything, but just to offer my own insights.
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] dereistic 8 points 9 days ago

Can you always tell when a sucker walks in? Does everyone automatically know they can sell this idiot who just walked in anything? Just wondering because my uncle is that person who will buy all the accessories and extra crap just because.
permalink [] mechabeast 3 points 8 days ago

I was always taught to ask for all the money for every customer. Some will pay some won't, but you won't get it if you don't ask for it
permalink parent [] voneahhh 6 points 9 days ago

So what are your thoughts on that bestof post?


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http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

[] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 19 points 9 days ago

I have many I'd rather not discuss that guy is an idiot and was just barking malarkey off the top of his head having no idea what in the fuck he was talking about. I guess that's what reddit loves?
permalink parent [] lost623 4 points 8 days ago

What part made him an idiot/having no idea what the fuck he was talking about? Is it not true that a new car pretty much loses 25% of its value the second you drive it off the lot?
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load more comments (7 replies) load more comments (5 replies) load more comments (2 replies) [] the_REAL_hOoLiGaN 4 points 9 days ago

Why won't you let me take it for a test drive?


permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 38 points 9 days ago

Your Username.
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load more comments (2 replies) [] xbgpoppa 3 points 9 days ago

I'm actually starting to look for a good used car now. Do you think it's easier to do the whole internet, e-mail dealers run around? I think it's easier for me to say what I want, and not get charmed by their good looks on the lot.
permalink load more comments (2 replies) [] Dean403 3 points 9 days ago

What on average is the difference in price between what the dealership pays for a vehicle and what its listed at? For example, i want to purchase a fully loaded Laramie Longhorn Megacab. Sticker price is $72k (im in Canada). What did the dealership pay for this and what can i honestly expect to negotiate down to at the very bottom end. Is it better if i pay cash etc?
permalink load more comments (3 replies) [] raziphel 3 points 9 days ago

at what point is the gap insurance a good idea vs not a good idea?
permalink [] Jeremy7508 4 points 8 days ago

Gap insurance is typically a better deal if you get it on your Auto Insurance Policy. If you buy it at the dealer, it's like $600 for 5 years. Your auto loan isn't worth more than the price of the vehicle all 5 years... maybe only 2.5 or 3. You can get your GAP insurance on your auto policy for about $50 every 6 months or so, and then cancel it when the price of your vehicle is close to the NADA/Blue Book value. You'll end up saving $200-300 this way.
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load more comments (1 reply) [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 3 points 9 days ago

Gap insurance is the only thing I purchase when I purchase a new vehicle. It's the one thing I think is always a good idea if financing a vehicle.

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http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

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parent

load more comments (13 replies) load more comments (1 reply) [] neoKushan 3 points 9 days ago*

Is there a type or brand of car you HATE trying to sell, for one reason or another? Something that's hard to shift and hardly worth your time?
permalink [] PurplePotamus 3 points 9 days ago

I've been hearing some ads on the radio for this body shop that apparently doesn't report to CarFax, implying that going to this body shop will stay off the record. Could you explain this horseshit? I thought all repairs had to be reported
permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 7 points 9 days ago

No one "Reports" to carfax. They report it to ford or report it to what ever auto manufacturer they are doing a repair on. They also have to report income for irs purposes which in turn means they have to report everything to some sort of accounting and this is how car-fax forms their reports and where they get their information. It's from tens of thousands of sources.
permalink parent [] PurplePotamus 3 points 9 days ago

Oh, so they can advertise that they "don't report to CarFax" and make themselves look like a better deal, when in reality, nobody does. lol.
permalink parent [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 3 points 9 days ago

Correct.
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load more comments (4 replies) [] WatchOP 2 points 9 days ago

Hey I have a question reguarding a certain vehicle. My family are Ford lovers and as soon as I saw the Ford Raptor I fell in love, especially when the 6.2l engine came out. So how much is a top of the line 6.2L Ford Raptor new and used? Also is it worth the price or is it overpriced.
permalink [] eziam 2 points 9 days ago

Thank you for doing this since the wife is looking to get a used car. I own a 2007 Mazda6 which I love but will trade it in so the wife can get a 2008 or 2010 cx-9 to fit the family in. Anyway, I owe about the Kelly bluebook for the car (4,200). Should I try to sell it privately or just trade it in to the dealer? I will get a car loan probably from USAA unless Mazda has something nicer.
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] willnuckles 2 points 9 days ago

What would you say would be a fair deal on a CX-5? Only option would be an automatic transmission. What's the best way to go about getting that deal?
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] HyperionsChaos 1 point 9 days ago

I'm buying a new car this year. How do I get the best discount? Would they take taxes off? Or should I ask for free add ons? I'm paying cash, does that help?

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http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

permalink load more comments (3 replies) [] timdh 2 points 9 days ago

How is a trade-in evaluated by a dealership? What items are they looking for? Are there some items that affect the trade-in value more than others? Do I need to have the car detailed even though the dealer will likely clean the car again when it is traded in? If the check engine light is on but it costs $500 to replace the mass air flow sensors, would it better to bite the bullet and replace the sensors or trade it in as is and take the hit on trade-in price? Thanks.
permalink load more comments (5 replies) [] MrGulio 2 points 9 days ago

I'm looking at a 2011 Mazda CX-7i right now with around 39k miles. The asking price is $16,998. Let's say this vehicle was in your lot. How far could I talk you down and for what reasons? (example: How much would the end price be if I had 20% for a down payment? How much would the end price be if I paid in cash? etc)
permalink [] TrappedinTampa 3 points 8 days ago

If they bought the vehicle right they own it for about 15,000 plus whatever costs they have in it (clean up, oil change). $16,998 is a fair price. avg retail is approx. 18,200 avg trade around 16,100. They didn't pay avg trade, but they do have costs associated with doing business. Hope this helps.
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load more comments (2 replies) load more comments (2 replies) [] OffstageXD 1 point 9 days ago

whats the weirdest thing someone has requested in a car?


permalink load more comments (2 replies) [] ScottRockview 2 points 9 days ago

How can I easily tell if a car I am looking at has been written off by an insurance company (specifically for water damage) or if the car is actually 2 halves of a car of a car that have been put together to make one car? I like buying cars from the states, but it seems to be a problem when I ask these questions. As a side note for you to increase business (and get mostly the asking price you have it listed for) post your vehicles for sale in kijiji to Canadian cities. We pay WAY more for cars up here, so your prices would be easy to move many a vehicle here. Just make sure they weren't written off for water damage (they are uninsurable here once this happens as there are too many problems to happen to these vehicles during the cold winters here) and offer to have a few modifications done (adding day time running lights, changing speedometer to km/h and most likely have a block heater added)
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] NotoriousTIMP 1 point 9 days ago

Is it true that dealerships will black list VIN numbers if a car comes in for service/warranty work and has aftermarket parts on the car? I drive a 2008 Mazdaspeed3 and I'm currently experiencing some weird noises with my suspension and I'm afraid to bring my car in since I have a bunch of aftermarket pieces on (Upgraded TIP, SRI, upgraded engine mount, etc. etc.)
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load more comments (4 replies) [] coucou22 2 points 9 days ago

Best ways to negociate the price ?


permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] Excelsior58 1 point 9 days ago

I want to sell my car. Should I post in the ad that it has been in an accident, or wait for people to ask? Also, how much should the wreck affect the value? I've done a lot of research on the value of the car, and how damage, even when professionally repaired, can devalue the car, but there doesn't seem to be a consensus on this. Also, how often is it that you get a shrewd customer that really gives you a run for your money when working out a deal? Thanks!
permalink [] joblo760 2 points 9 days ago

Any accident will devalue the car, it just depends on how much. If it were a small scrape (bump from someone reversing into you) then if you can prove that its brought back up to manufacturers specs, it will get you a little more $, if the vehicle frame has been bent and the title is now a salvage piece, be prepared to get very little.
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load more comments (1 reply) [] Sodiumtdawg 1 point 9 days ago

If you were in the market for a car. Would you buy a brand new car or a used one?
permalink [] breezymcgz 1 point 9 days ago

I was looking into getting a Mazdaspeed 3, but the low mileage (36,000) warranty is making me a little nervous, especially if I buy used. Have you noticed that model having any reliability issues?
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] WECGEWHYAAIORTNU 2 points 9 days ago

Im currently getting a 2013 Dodge Avenger and have a choice between 225/55R17 and 225/50R18 wheels. Will going with the 18s at ~10% less sidewall put me at any more real risk for pothole injury than the 17s which are the smallest rim/largest sidewall they'll put on?
permalink load more comments (4 replies) [] hometown45 1 point 9 days ago

If one is purchasing a used car, and using dealer financing, and the dealer comes back and says that you do not qualify for a lower interest rate, but we can offer you this higher rate instead, just how truthful are they being? Back story....Lost our family van to an accident, had one more day left on the insurance provided rental, and had to close the deal that day. The next week got alternate financing from a bank and closed out that loan. 1/10 would not deal there again. (This occurred in Ontario BTW)
permalink load more comments (4 replies) [] BuccaneerRex 2 points 9 days ago

If you had $1000 to spend on a car, how would you go about getting the best deal? Looks aren't important, as long as it gets 1 person around town reliably.
permalink [] SelectivelyOblivious 9 points 8 days ago

I often find myself helping friends and family buying low budget cars. Everyone always

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Hey everyone I am A New and Used Car Salesperson here to help Reddit...

http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

recommends Hondas and Toyotas for used cars, but that reputation keeps used values high. I'm sure it can be done, but honestly, there's not much in that $1000 price range that isn't 20 years old, rusted out, half-done engine swap, been in accidents, and/or painted primer grey with mismatched wheels by some high school kid. For low price, bang-for-the-buck beaters, I've had far more luck finding decent American cars. Two recent purchases include a $1200 '99 Chevy Cavailer with 62k miles and a $1300 '03 Oldsmobile Alero with 80k miles. Both drive wonderfully and have years of life in them. They'll be inexpensive to insure and buy parts for too. I wouldn't discourage anyone from buying a nice Corolla, but face it, literately everybody types "Honda Civic" and "Toyota Camry" into Craigslist. Compare that to how many people are searching for "Oldsmobile Intrigue" and "Buick Century." Or the equivalent Mercury models of Fords? Try searching "Mercury Mystique," you might be the first caller all week. Less competition from other buyers mean you're several times more likely to find the good condition and good deal cars, as well as an upperhand in negotiations. Nothing reduces your chances of taking a few hundred off the price like the classic line, "I've gotten 6 calls about the car so far this weekend..." Obviously, there's a lot of $1000 shit boxes out there, but don't get discouraged if you run into them. Good ones do exist. In this price range, you have to watch ads like a hawk, be ready to pounce on the ones that look good, and prepared to run from cars that don't feel right. "Just needs a tuneup," or "Just needs a $20 part" are huge red flags. If it only costs $20 to fix the car, they would have done it already. And haggle haggle haggle. I usually go in with the rough assumption that $2000 means $1600. $1500 means $1100. $1200 means $950. If you're not comfortable sizing up a car's condition on your own, then don't be afraid to ask to bring the car over to a mechanic you trust. If they balk at that idea, they're hiding something. Bring a car guy friend with you on the test drive, two people are more likely to notice faults than one person. Replacement parts for stuff like shocks, brakes, tires, alignments, mufflers don't vary too much in cost until you start looking at luxury and German makes, or sports cars and larger SUVs. Having a rough idea of how much the common stuff costs can help in negotiations. Be a little bit flexible, but stick to your guns on what you're not willing to deal with. I'm up here in New England, and I won't touch anything with anything more than the smallest amount of rust. Or you could just buy a good guitar instead, there's a great song by the Bottle Rockets about that taking you farther. :)
permalink parent [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 4 points 9 days ago

Honda Toyota or Mazda, Buy one on Clist.


permalink parent [] MrsNapier 2 points 9 days ago

Hi. This will probably get buried but I read you might have experience with used Mazdas. So I bought my 2006 Mazda3 legit from a dealership. Or at least I thought I did. I had spoke to a rep. and was told they wouldn't come down from ten thousand, but then USAA told me online that the same car was available for eight. In the end we ended up paying $10,000 or so for it after the repairs I had to make. I was learning stick, but even my veteran manual-driving husband thought the clutch was far too stiff. We were told it was fine, and that being stiff was a good thing. If it wasn't stiff we'd have a problem. I had a horrible time with it, and I knew for a fact the stiffness of the clutch was a problem because my husband's car's clutch never felt like it took my lower back to push it all the way to the floor. Two months after I had the car the clutch plates fused together, forcing me to replace it for $700. I could have sworn the clutch was bad when they sold it to me, but couldn't prove it. We could never determine if me learning to drive stick caused the plates to fuse, or if the clutch was nearly worn out to begin with. when the dealership replaced the clutch, it was the smoothest, lightest clutch I'd ever used, and not at all like what the dealership had described to me as "normal". I knew they had to have been lying, but couldn't prove it. It's far too late to do anything about it, and I've been sold "bad" pre-owned cars before. My question is: is it common for dealerships to lie by omission to sell used cars? Sounds like a loaded question,

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http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

but it often seems like there is more information about the car than even the Carfax or the dealer is willing to tell you unless you know the right questions to ask. For example, the dealership professing to me that the stiff clutch was "normal" stood to reason, to me, that the clutch had been serviced or was almost new. No one told me any different and I didn't know to ask. Edit: more details.
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] asm129 1 point 9 days ago

What type of warranty should I expect if I bought a used car?


permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] JeffTheLess 1 point 9 days ago

I'm still fairly new to car sales (about 6 months in), any advice for a fairly new salesman?
permalink load more comments (3 replies) [] deuce_bumps 1 point 9 days ago

How has immediate availability of a car's approximate value via the internet changed the way you sell vehicles? I imagine the internet screwed over the likelihood of huge deals and pretty much made the sales routine much more rigid... edit: clarity
permalink [] crono09 1 point 9 days ago

I've bought three cars in the past ten years. For the first two purchases, I was able to talk the dealer down $2,000 to $4,000. for the most recent once, I couldn't even talk him down $1,000. However, I also noticed during my most recent car shopping experience that the sticker prices for cars were much closer to their Kelley Blue Book value, whereas in the past, cars were often priced much higher than their actual value. Is it becoming more common to put the sticker price on cars closer to their actual value rather than marking them up and negotiating the price?
permalink [] pmille31 2 points 9 days ago

So maybe you can help me out, I went to a dealership about 7 months ago, and was looking into getting a new Chevy Cruze, I'm make it apparent I'm interested and we're talking numbers. He(the money guy) shows me a couple things they can do for me in terms of payment and interest, but I'm not having it, I'm trying to get under a 9% interest and below $300 payment. Fast foward 3 weeks, I'm online looking at my credit report, and I come to find out that he pinged my credit 7 times, causing my credit to drop almost 30 points. So my questions are, does Financing have to do a hard inquiry when they look into getting you a loan, and is there any recourse for him screwing my credit like that? Thank you.
permalink load more comments (3 replies) [] 1stchairlastcall 1 point 9 days ago

So, I want to buy a new or used car. Specifically, a winter car for driving to/from the mountains. Two questions: 1)Am I better off waiting until the spring as far as pricing goes? Do prices tend to trend downward as the season they're intended for passes? 2)Any recommendations? Must be AWD/4WD. I'm partial to Subarus.
permalink [] j3434 1 point 9 days ago

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http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

I want to get a Porche Carrera. I have seen them priced from about 15k to about 100k. I just can't figure out why the extreme differences in price and what to look for. Most are about 6 or 8 years old with about 90k miles. What should I be looking for and what should I pay ?
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] Marthalameu 1 point 9 days ago

I'm going to be trading in my car later this month. What are the biggest things I can do to get the most from the dealership? In addition, how extensively do the check wear-and-tear items like tires, brakes, etc. I ask the latter because my tires would probably need to be replaced in about 4 months, but I'm not gonna spend that money on a car I'm trading in. Thanks for the AMA!
permalink [] Silver_Star 1 point 8 days ago

How much cheaper is a luxury car(Lamborghini) used than a new one? On average? What problems are generally found in older, used luxury vehicles that you should watch out for
permalink [] zoon82 1 point 8 days ago

What is your rebuttal when a customer asks "What is your bottom dollar?" Edit; My Scenario - I am going to buy a Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. I will do financing via credit union. I want to walk / call a dealership and find out bottom dollar out the door price (My credit union needs to know how much I will be spending). They always come back with "Do you have a trade or how much per month are you looking at"... I get so pissed when they ask that because it is their way of changing numbers to match your payment. First of all, my trade doesnt have anything to do with their price. It comes OFF their bottom dollar. I am smart enough to get their price before they value my trade.
permalink [] redlinezo6 1 point 8 days ago

I bought a certified Pre-Owned Scion one year ago. I purchased an extended warranty from Toyota(7 years I think). If I were to trade that car in now, I would be able to get a refund on the remainder of that warranty, right?
permalink [] NickyBIGBallz 1 point 8 days ago

I'm going in this week with my dad to go check out a 2012/2013 speed3. From what I understand the mazda dealers around here are really trying to push the 2012 speed3s for around 22,500. What would a fair price be for a 2012 or would it be worth it to push for the 2013? As far as I'm concerned they are the same car with minimal differences, just a few more buttons and knobs. My dad is also looking for a car for my sister to use. I recommended a CX-5. Think we'd be able to make a better deal on the cars if we went to buy the speed3 and lease the CX-5?
permalink load more comments (2 replies) [] ohsteveoh 1 point 8 days ago

i understand you cannot tell us your exact location. but can you tell is your in which country you reside?
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] Leesburgcapsfan 1 point 8 days ago

What is the standard markup on a used car? How much can i expect to haggle down when buying a used car?
permalink [] Some_Guy_There 1 point 8 days ago

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Hey everyone I am A New and Used Car Salesperson here to help Reddit...

http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

I bought a "dealer-driven" 2012 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring in May for $26,610.28 after fees and taxes. It had 2632 miles on it. I don't have the invoice in front of me, but I believe it was around $24k before fees and taxes. How'd I do?
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] LanaDelReggae 2 points 8 days ago

If I have the carfax, where and how can I check if the odometer for my car has been rolled back?
permalink [] sayitundefined 1 point 8 days ago

I have an interview Friday for a New Car Salesman position. For a Toyota dealership. Honestly, on average, what did you make a month last year? I think I can do it. No problems there, but I have a family and my wife.....well. I'm married. Does not making a sale after a period of time get you down?
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] UnpopularGoblin 1 point 8 days ago

Im planning on buying my first car of the dealer by the end of the year. What do I need to take with me when I go to the dealer? I have heard that some dealers deliver the car to your house is it true? How does the warranty work?
permalink [] IMAPocketWhaleAMA 1 point 8 days ago

I saw a video one time encouraging people to call different dealers to have them bid on the price they'll sell you a car for. Is that a good strategy!
permalink [] DOPE_AS_FUCK_COOK [S] 4 points 8 days ago

Yes, I hate being on the other side of the phone for this strategy, but yes absolutely.
permalink parent [] letsrage82 1 point 8 days ago

Are they ever going to make a Mazda RX-8 convertible?


permalink load more comments (2 replies) [] Evil_Bonsai 1 point 8 days ago

Here's a question: I have a 10 year old car. 120K miles. It definitely needs work. The blinkers don't work ( a $3 part on $1100 module) and it 'shudders' at highway speeds. Would it be best to spend as much money as I can afford to fix these problems to maximize trade in OR, due to age and mileage, should I not even bother as no one will except it as a trade even if I get the little problems fixed?
permalink [] Danmidas 1 point 8 days ago

Hey, what car would you recommend for someone who's just passed their test? Also... how should haggling be done in this business to get the best deal?
permalink [] Hatric 1 point 8 days ago

Are employer sponsored "deals" with brands really the best deal you can get on a new car. ie. $500 under invoice? Where am I getting screwed, and can I ask for more off like the "floor mat package" that the car has in it, can I get included no cost?
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[] ChronicTheOne 1 point 8 days ago

What is your average liquid profit margin while selling a car, in percentage?
permalink [] noble_neckbeard 1 point 8 days ago

How negotiable is trade-in value? Is it possible to get the dealership to raise their initial offer on the trade in? They always seem to lowball you.
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] AceShooter92 1 point 8 days ago

Old Gill finally found Reddit


permalink [] orionsshoe 1 point 8 days ago

So rust coating what is that?


permalink [] JelliedHam 1 point 8 days ago

I'm about done with my 04 RX-8 and looking to sell it. Had it at the dealership to get some work done and looked at some of the new cars while I was there. My Mazda salesperson said he's got every deal in the book available to move the 2013 Mazda 6 since the re-design for 2014 is starting to ship to dealers. How great are the deals on remaining units of the last model Mazda 6 and what could I expect for a "new" but 2013 model?
permalink [] trust_me_im_a_turtle 2 points 8 days ago

Have you ever had people try to use game theory to buy a car from you? If you encountered that, how would you respond? Does it work?
permalink [] CarlosValdosta 2 points 8 days ago

WTF is a destination fee>?


permalink [] camconcay 1 point 8 days ago

I purchased a car and later found out it had a branded title (not a salvage title) due to original purchase dealer buy back. there is nothing wrong with the car now but the branded title apparently makes it far less valuable. This was not disclosed to me at purchase and I only found out when I tied to trade it. Any recourse? How much does a dealer buy back hurt the value?
permalink [] ghatid 2 points 8 days ago

A little late but if I can buy a car with cash, can I get a better deal by financing it and then paying off the loan right away?
permalink [] vtjohnhurt 1 point 8 days ago

What is the most economical car for a college student in terms of total cost of ownership over four years? a)Brand new Ford Focus b) 5-year old Honda Civic c)10 year old SAAB d)10 year old Volvo e)your suggestion?
permalink [] huyak 1 point 8 days ago

Can you please explain the "square" and if it is really used?


permalink [] Ooforia 1 point 8 days ago

Probably will buy a car in about months, and I am looking at the ford mustang. Should I buy new

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http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

and negotiate on the price (looking around maybe 20k range) or hunt down on a decent previous years models? Also say it breaks down, how much do repairs go for compared to like Honda, Toyota, etc...
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] ethanspoppa_ok 1 point 8 days ago*

I spent ten years in the car business, and did everything from lot porter to sales manager. In the end, I got burned out working a bell shift (open-close) six days a week and the wild swing in income. Some months I made $8500+, others I made a couple grand. I'm glad I got out, but sometimes I miss the income. EDIT: By the way I hope you don't mind if I answer a couple questions for you here and there.
permalink [] PillPod 1 point 8 days ago

Since you're a Mazda guy, what are your thoughts on getting rid of the Tribute?
permalink [] shirebrew 1 point 8 days ago

So I LOVE my car (2006 A3). And I don't like the newer models of this car. What smarter? Sell at point that there is still some value in the car?Or should I just drive it until the wheels come off? Its completely paid off.
permalink [] UWbadgers16 1 point 8 days ago

I have an '01 Honda Accord with 101K miles and it needs a new transmission. Should I get it fixed or would I be better off buying a different car?
permalink [] 360walkaway 1 point 8 days ago

Favorite meal to cook?


permalink [] kikisaurus 1 point 8 days ago

I'm considering selling my car to one of those companies that's doing "$5k minimum guaranteed for your trade" but they also say that they'll guarantee $5k if you just sell your car to them and DON'T buy a car from them. I called and they claim that there's no "fine print" with this deal. Has your company ever had a deal like that and are those deals legit?
permalink [] ab2650 2 points 8 days ago

Not being a huge fan of haggling over the price of a new car, I've always wondered if I can just bring a check into the dealership and say "Here's a check for your net cost plus $500," and have them take it or leave it. Obviously this assumes I've researched what their net cost is, if there's any incentives or rebates and so on. Generally, I'm not opposed to the dealership making a profit, I just don't want to haggle. How best should I do that?
permalink [] kuchitsu 1 point 8 days ago

I haven't seen this mentioned yet, so I thought I'd toss this in. When you buy a new car, typically they try to upsell you on things like undercoating, stain protection, windshield treatments, GAP coverage, etc. It's all a ripoff. Sometimes they give you the total price, and sometimes they price it like "$10 a month to your payment". The stain protectant is a can of scotchguard applied by some guy in the back room. Undercoating is not needed on modern vehicles, the windshield treatment is usually PPG's rain-x type of stuff which costs $20 retail for a single application (and the dealers charge up

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http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

to $300 for it). GAP coverage is cheaper through your insurance company. Say no to everything. Extended warranties? Make sure it's backed by the manufacturer and not some fly by night company. Manufacturer warranties will sometimes be 3rd party, but they can still be backed by the manufacturer (like VW's). Don't buy the warranty if you plan on getting rid of the car before the original warranty is up. And, you don't need to decide right away if you want the warranty unless you want it financed. You can add the warranty anytime before your original runs out. Frequently, you can find sales guys at dealers frequenting car forums that will sell you a warranty for like $50 above cost. So that $1800 warranty at the dealer might be $850 through a guy on the internet for the EXACT same thing.
permalink [] Skitzofreniks 1 point 8 days ago

Do a lot of car salesmen have drug problems? I've heard rumors.


permalink [] SumthingStupid 1 point 8 days ago

How often, would you say, do car salespeople lie about a car to make a sale?
permalink [] busykat 1 point 8 days ago

Is it true that you make no money on a straight-up sale without financing?


permalink [] kingofthehillpeople 1 point 8 days ago

What's this "list" that dealers keep of cars tthat have sat in the lot unsold for an extended period of time?
permalink [] superprofundo 1 point 8 days ago

Used Prius: what's the real expectancy on their battery lives? Is there any kind of miles over years algorithm that's used to predict that? I'm looking into the economy of owning one, but $2k after 2 years could put a big hinge in my equations.
permalink [] schmitty23 1 point 8 days ago

The last few times I've bought a vehicle (minivan and car) I feel like I've had good success by doing my research on invoice price and likely dealer incentives, and then I find several dealers in the area and call\email (usually email is possible) their "internet sales" department. I tell them I'm emailing several dealers, this is the model\trim package I'm looking for, and please respond with their best quote and stock availability. Results have been surprisingly good, no haggle, pretty easy transactions, and I'm told that many dealerships have people to specifically handle these types of sales. I'm not looking to squeeze a dealer to 0 or negative profit, but normally want to keep it to a few hundred or less. I love it because it avoids all of the wasted time at the dealership. What is your experience with how "Internet sales" groups run at dealerships? edit: well, one bad transaction - a dealer did the pricing part w/o hassle, I made an appt to come down to get it, arrived and mysteriously there was no actual vehicle on the lot. Which is why, now, when I do this I always ask for a VIN along with the availability and quote
permalink [] ntnth 1 point 8 days ago

Do you think its risky to buy a 2012 Mazda 3 with SkyActiv? Conventional wisdom seems to be not to buy the first year of a new motor.
permalink [] BeLove23 1 point 8 days ago

Mazda just called me and wants me to test drive a new car because they want my current model on the floor? I found this weird considering my lease isn't up until August. If I wait til August is that better for me? Also, precisely how many scratches or nicks can a car have on a lease for if to be turned in? Thanks for your time. Nice of ya.

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http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

permalink load more comments (2 replies) [] Harrusha 1 point 8 days ago

Do you guys use the 4 square method? I find it very shady, and once stopped a sales person completely when they pulled it out.
permalink [] stfu_whale 1 point 8 days ago

I recently bought a new 2012 Mazda 3 hatchback (love it so far) and I negotiated through email, but when I went in, they told me the minimum they could sell it for was 19k after factoring in various things that made sense to me (such as $200 for 0% financing and another rebate had expired). They said they weren't making much profit on it. Do you think I could have done things differently to get a better price?
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] jmonty42 1 point 8 days ago

In response to that bestof comment about new & used vehicles, what is your advice for buying new versus used cars?
permalink [] spyyked 1 point 8 days ago

I'm looking outside my home market for a very specific make/model/package. It's not rare, just seems 3-5k cheaper around the chicago area. What sort of considerations might I expect from a dealership 500+ miles away? Are they going to be more willing to work with my offer or should I expect them to take me less seriously since I'm far out. Is there any online resource that can get us regular folks access to some of the more 'sensitive' information that a dealer has access to? I used to have access to pull Manheim reports and it was very useful in getting a good deal on a car a few years ago. When trading in my car I usually bring options to the salesman. Say I owe 12k on my car. the car I want to buy is 15k. I tell him either he can give me 15k trade in on my car or he can come down 3k on the price of the new car. I'm completely honest with him about it being that I just don't want to finance anymore so it's one way or the other. Have you had anybody else come to you with this type of negotiation? is it better/easier for the dealer to pony up and give me more on my trade-in or lower the price of the new(used) car?
permalink [] beardlesswonder 1 point 8 days ago

Best tips to negotiate a lease? They seem less transparent because they use different terms.
permalink [] PeruTheGnar 1 point 8 days ago

I'm actually going car shopping tomorrow for the first time. How should I feel about these no credit/bad credit $0 down and things fo the like? Thanks in advance!
permalink [] zeWoah 1 point 8 days ago

What are some dark, dirty, and or "on the down low" secrets about cars, if any, at a dealership that people are not supposed to know?
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] aiiye 1 point 8 days ago

How are the new Mazda 6s? I'm looking at maybe buying one. How can I get the biggest amount of cash for my old car?
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http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

[] opsomath 1 point 8 days ago

I buy all my used vehicles (cars and bikes) off Craigslist. Not trying to be insulting, but every time I have looked at a vehicle at a dealer, it has been at least a 20% markup over private party even when it wasn't a poorly disguised rolling bomb. (I had an old Honda actually catch fire on me when I was taking it around the parking lot. Never even got out of second gear.) So my question: In your opinion when does it make sense to go to a dealer to buy a used car, given the availability of private party sales?
permalink [] MassM3D14 1 point 8 days ago

http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/wwidf /i_am_an_ex_new_car_salesman_from_the_80s_early/
permalink [] russiangn 1 point 8 days ago

I HIHGLY recommend you read this article as it's a very helpful guide to buying used / new cars.
permalink [] kolm 1 point 8 days ago

I have this nice slightly reposted OC that I might want to buy, would you have a look at it and tell me how many karma it is good for still?
permalink [] nionvox 1 point 8 days ago

Is it true that most salesman treat young guys like impulse buyers? (like 18-30yrs) When me and my husband went to get a Mustang, all the guy did was try to pump up how cool it was, it'll get all the girls (hi, wife right here asshole)
permalink [] borgfinkleton 2 points 8 days ago

How do you sleep at night?


permalink [] whispertoke 1 point 8 days ago

Hi New and Used Car Salesman, we're Reddit and we're here to help you
permalink [] mkultra50000 2 points 8 days ago

Are there some vehicles that lots just dont deal on? I bought a mustang GT about 6 months ago. Edmunds had its value at 14.3 , NADA at 19.9. The dealership had the year/model i wanted but was priced at 22K with 80K miles. They wouldn't budge and i tried on some others, similar year, miles. I finally picked one up private party with 58K miles for 14.3. I tried to be straight with them. They just flatly said no way.
permalink [] mrbolt 1 point 8 days ago*

Thanks for doing this. I'm in the market for a new car (Subaru is what I have my eye on) and I'm terrible at haggling\getting the best price, any good ways to just cut to the chase or haggle as a customer? Edit: Also what would a salesman give you more off of, a car with more perks or less perks? Is there wiggle room on all cars or a bottom price limit over cost that they don't usually budge on?
permalink load more comments (2 replies) [] Alexice 1 point 8 days ago

Probably a bit too late to the show, But I want a Nissan Skyline R34. I live in Sweden, Is it easier for me to import one from the UK or buy one here? (They are pretty expensive here)
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http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

[] user99672 1 point 8 days ago

Car AMA the other day Sudden Car Dealer shows up Totally Legit.....
permalink [] Gentile_Giant 1 point 8 days ago

Are car auctions very prevalent where you live? I've been to three auctions in the past two months and they are quite the experience. I've done tons of online research about buying a new truck. And every price that I've seen at these auctions is $2000-4000 cheaper than a private seller or Craigslist, not to mention a full $10,000 cheaper than small dealerships. My question is why? What is your opinion on car auctions? Yes, I need a full size truck, I'm in construction.
permalink [] Butt_Patties 1 point 8 days ago

Over 15 Franchises Including (but not limited to). Ford, Toyota, Fiat, Polaris, Kawasaki, Scion, Mazda, Fiat, Kia, Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep & More. May wanna fix that right quick, mate.
permalink [] consiliumz 1 point 8 days ago

My dad used to work at a Chevy dealership when he was younger. I'm just wondering if used car dealers pay their salespeople the same as new car dealerships do. My dad always told me that he made much more money then the other salesmen because he approached his boss and asked to replace his salary with a larger % of the money his sales brought in. I guess what I'm asking is do you receive a small salary in addition to commission or do you just get commission (what % if you do)
permalink [] EbagI 1 point 8 days ago

Alright man, under $15k, under 50k miles, lots of space and very good gas mileage. What do? (I love toyotas btw) >_>
permalink [] TySLive 1 point 8 days ago

You're from VA and I'm from WV. If you got any used Tacoma's I could get for around $300 a month you should pm me ;) I'd totally go buy a new F150 but our insurance rates are insane in WV. I've been driving for 3.5 years with no tickets/accidents and insurance on a regular cab I4 Tacoma is $300 a month. And yes, that is with me shopping around. Literally the best price I could find.
permalink load more comments (2 replies) [] Vitto9 1 point 8 days ago

I get low rate auto loans from my bank (USAA) so that I don't have to use dealer financing. I also get 1% under factory invoice along with any incentives for new vehicles through my company. On a scale of One to "Fuck that guy", how much do salesmen hate me when a deal is over? Note: I never tell them that I have the affiliate pricing until after we've worked out a deal for my trade in, assuring that I get top dollar for the trade and minimizing their potential profits from it.
permalink load more comments (2 replies) [] throwaway_sss 1 point 8 days ago

What is the best course of action for a socially awkward guy who is intimidated with the negotiations game to get a good price on a car?

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http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] OhLawdBBQ 1 point 8 days ago

I just bought a 2007 Saab 9-3 in June of 2012 with 110,000 miles on it. They gave me a 2 month/3,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty. That of course is already gone. Just recently I'm starting to have tons of problems with the car. Sensors going bad, hesitation, surging, check engine lights, and limp-home mode constantly. So my question is, would a dealer do anything since they essentially sold me a car with a ticking time bomb of problems? They keep sending me letters about getting an "extended warranty." But I'm automatically assuming there is a catch, and it's going to cost me more.
permalink [] rabbl3rabbl3rabbl3 1 point 8 days ago

I'm not going to lie, I read your name as dope_as_fuck_cock until about halfway through the comments. I was confused about all the cooking comments until my brain went click. I am not a smart man.
permalink [] subsept 2 points 8 days ago

why does it cost me 75 bucks to key a new key made? i understand that the chip has to be programmed and that's 45 bucks, but 30 bucks to copy the key! That's just crazy.
permalink [] HoneyBadger93 1 point 8 days ago

Do used dealers go to wholesale sellers or do they buy straight from the auctions?
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] HB24 1 point 8 days ago

What is up with the practice of taking a customers keys? I understand the incentive of collateral for test drives... but get so annoyed when it is time for me to walk and the salesman says "well, let me see if I can find your keys in the back?" Really dick-head? You are only making the transaction tougher for your sale. It is a very childish tactic, BUT I know the rules to the stupid game, so I always bring a spare set of keys and just tell them to have my keys ready for me the next afternoon... it is amazing how quickly they find my "hard to find" keys at that point.
permalink [] robler 1 point 8 days ago

What is the best car to start driving with?


permalink [] Magical_Socks 1 point 8 days ago

i am currently driving a car with a salvaged title. Is there any way that a dealer is even going to want to buy it from me if i trade it in while buying another car? or am i going to just have to drive it until it dies? Thanks for doing this!
permalink load more comments (2 replies) [] franstoobnsf 1 point 8 days ago

So maybe in the last year I finally got my first credit card. I'd been avoiding them, but I've come to learn that they're not that scary if you're not an idiot. Since I don't really have enough money saved right now to put a down payment on a car, I'm sort of putting it off as much as possible to 1) save money and 2) have my credit built up to a better point. My question is: is this correct to do? How big a deal is credit? I started at 0 and who knows how good it is now, I just want a bargaining chip to be able to go to a dealer and say, "I'd like my

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http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

payments lowered please because good credit kthxbi" (as you can see, I've never bought a car before)
permalink [] bettsshawn 1 point 8 days ago

I want to buy a 2002 Ford Mustang Coupe with 120,000 miles on it, what is the lowest a car salesmen would take on it?
permalink [] deepsouthheat 1 point 8 days ago

What's the most awesome person or sale you've made that stands out in your mind? Best day at work?
permalink load more comments (2 replies) [] neurot 1 point 8 days ago

I thought the OP's nickname was dope as fuck cock


permalink [] negabiggz 1 point 8 days ago

I am having a rough time with my dealership right now. Helps if I give some details. I purchased a new car, after my first one was written off, accident due to brake failure. The car was a 2009, and I bought it new about 6 months prior. I went to another dealership, and was looking at the same vehicle, except with a higher trim package. The Higher trim package had a lesser warranty than the previous car, since it included a turbocharger. I had told them about my situation with the totalled vehicle, and they wanted to get me into a new one. Since I was interested in the higher trim package, they offered to sell me the vehicle with the higher trim, and throw in the 10 year powertrain-5 year new car warranty instead of the 5-year powertrain-3 year new car warranty. I decided to go for it, and it lists on my invoice that my car is covered for 10 years etc. Now 3 years have passed, and I have had a couple of small issues pop up. I have taken it back to the dealership and had them confirm the issues, but they are saying the car is out of warranty due to the trim level I picked having a shorter warranty. I pressed the issue with them, and they pulled my invoice, which clearly states that I have the longer-term warranty. The invoice was brought up to the management at the dealership, and while they confirmed that it says I have the coverage, they refuse to honor it because they don't have anyone to bill the repairs to. My question is, do they have the right to decline warranty service on the car that clearly states on my invoice that the car is covered? What would be the best course of action in this situation?
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] tipp0 1 point 8 days ago

What would be the best way of getting a discounted price on a used car? e.g. trying to find anything wrong on the bodywork as a bargaining tool.
permalink [] Stoutyeoman 1 point 8 days ago

What is a safe margin to play with while negotiating? For example, if I'm buying a pre-owned and I offer the buy 20% below sticker price, is he likely to go for it? Would I be overshooting if I offered as much as 40% below?
permalink [] tonybanks 1 point 8 days ago

Any books you can recommend other than Lemon-Aid books?


permalink [] mymichelle 1 point 8 days ago

My car needs replaced pretty damn bad. And I don't have a ton of money saved. What would be the best way to go about finding a decently priced used car? Should I go the craigslist route or finance?

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http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

permalink [] Mdcastle 1 point 8 days ago

What do you think of the 2012+ Jeep Grand Cherokee. I have a 2002 and love it, but it seems they wrecked if for 2005, it looked cheap on the inside, but the 2012 look nice again and the 4WD options and air lift system look awesome. Is Honda getting to be irrelevant nowdays? My stepfather is a used car salesman and he can't get rid of his Hondas because it seems no one wants to buy them, everyone wants domestics or Toyotas.
permalink [] greenenayr 1 point 8 days ago

I just applied for a job selling cars, any tips?


permalink [] LickItAndSpreddit 1 point 8 days ago

I know this is late, but I can only get on Reddit while on bathroom breaks at work. There are a few confusing terms out there, and I'm curious if factory invoice is a good price to shoot for when purchasing a new vehicle? I can't remember the details, but a few years back I looked up the info online. I believe it was factory invoice (could have been dealer invoice, if that's different. Regardless, I think both included hold-back). I emailed the internet sales manager and said that's my price. I'm not paying for any storage or advertising fees. Order the vehicle configured this way when you make your next factory order. Was very quick and painless. On a related note, I heard hold-back is something that is off the negotiating table, and can cause ill-will if it's even brought up. True?
permalink [] AKR44 1 point 8 days ago

My gf is having a hard time keeping up on her payments on her newish vehicle. She's thinking of selling it and getting something with smaller payments. Do you have any tips for the best way to do this? Thanks!
permalink [] BMEJoshua 1 point 8 days ago

The dealership I bought my CTS coupe at had something called "smart pricing" which they said was non-negotiable, but they'll help you out when it comes to trade ins. Is that actually true?
permalink [] realchinky 1 point 8 days ago

I'm looking at a 2008 Mazdaspeed 3 at some what you might say sketchy dealership here in Denver. It is the cheapest one I could find for my price range. Should I go just a little-bit above my price range, or just trust the dealership.
permalink [] thisphone 1 point 8 days ago

How should I approach test driving several different models of cars just to see which kind I want, but have no intention of buying that day? I want to acurately compare drivability of different models, so that once I've made a decision,THEN I can actually shop for the best deal on the car I want. However, I don't want to be chased off the lot when I request 5 separate test drives :)
permalink [] Chilled_Thrill 0 points 8 days ago

Would you rather fight 100 duck-sized horses, or 1 horse-sized duck?


permalink [] henderson_exp 1 point 8 days ago

Since New Zealand is now teaching dogs how to drive (link here http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/worldasia-20614593) what car would you recommend for a Beagle?
permalink [] sallypants 1 point 8 days ago

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Hey everyone I am A New and Used Car Salesperson here to help Reddit...

http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

Just off the top of your head, what would you pay for a 1989 Ford F150 (4.9 cu. in. 300 6 cylinder engine) in very, very good condition (inside and out), but with 270k miles?
permalink [] kgb26 1 point 8 days ago

What do you think about truecar.com? Do car salesmen hate it?


permalink [] teh_g 1 point 8 days ago

Are leases worth it?


permalink [] AgentSoup 1 point 8 days ago

Is it bad that I read all of your posts as Joe Worth from Sport Chrysler Jeep Dodge in Norristown? It's not supposed to be an insult, I just find his voice to be pleasant for a salesman. Link for the curious
permalink [] Nivolk 1 point 8 days ago

Ever do any other types of sales? If so how does it compare? Ever worked for a manager or owner that demand unreasonable numbers? Ones that pushed unethical behavior for every last dollar? I ask because the salesguys I knew at work (not auto) were of a type to do anything for a dollar and I wondered how some of them slept at night. (Answer I was given much later by one of our former guys was with an expensive bottle of scotch and a very good mattress.)
permalink [] Codyhop 1 point 8 days ago

I have an 02 Chevy Tahoe I just paid off. Almost 140,000 miles. Should I stick with it? I've been wanting to get something with better gas mileage. Do you think I could trade straight up for a descent car? Or with minimal payment. I used to be roommates with a dirtbag. Did quick fixes to sell cars and when they came back they would threaten the buyer with their lawyers.
permalink [] kgb26 1 point 8 days ago

What's your opinion on buying a used BMW or other luxury car?


permalink [] [deleted] 1 point 8 days ago

What's the biggest gross profit you've ever seen? I've seen $10K on an Explorer and $19K on a Mercedes. That was a few years back...2002 or so
permalink [] jerrito1 1 point 8 days ago

I'm planning on buying a used Chevy Tahoe police package soon. Whats the best way to negotiate the best price on a used police vehicle? Can I use that as an advantage to lower the price on the car? Any tips you have that you hate that people pull on you?
permalink [] squirttlesquirt 1 point 8 days ago

Is it better to buy form craigslist or from a dealer?


permalink [] tillerwills 1 point 8 days ago

Could you suggest a first time car for a 16yr. old guy?
permalink [] reallniceguy 1 point 8 days ago

What it what he is doing is a sales technique called befriend and betray.


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http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

[] ForteFZ 1 point 8 days ago

you're a liar you didnt post a picture of the sandwich along with your proof. JK, insightful AMA!
permalink [] raven_hood 1 point 8 days ago

Dope as a what?
permalink [] omgdracula 1 point 8 days ago

A couple questions being a car salesmen like yourself and having an old school dad. My dealership would not give me a deal on a car so I said fuck them and decided to go elsewhere. 1)How much bullshit is the $250(OH here) Document Fee 2)Does saying it is going to be a cash deal not mean anything? I have heard salesmen just laugh because there won't be any profit on the back end.
permalink [] MISTER_HUGE 1 point 8 days ago

What would you say is your buyer demographic?


permalink [] fratzcatsfw 1 point 8 days ago

Dear Dope, Bought and own a 2006 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring. Love it all to heck. Was thinking about trading it toward a newer 2011/2012/2013 Mazda 3, but was looking for better gas mileage. I know the i engines get much better fuel efficiency but unfortunately the s models still with the larger engine do not do much better. Is it possible to get a Mazda 3 i Grand Touring w/ all the trimmings of the s Grand Touring for fuel efficiency reasons? For reference I have an office job and drive between 45-50 miles every workday with a pretty even amount of city/highway driving. Thanks in advance hopefully you can answer this burning question of mine!
permalink load more comments (4 replies) [] MISTER_HUGE 1 point 8 days ago

What is your worst car buyer horror story?


permalink [] enferex 1 point 8 days ago

I have heard that it is most economical to keep a car as long as possible, until it finally explodes into a cloud of dust. What are your feelings with this. Personally, I think there is a point to where upkeep on an ancient vehicle extends past the cost of purchasing a new vehicle with less maintenance cost.
permalink [] mscharfie 1 point 8 days ago

Have you met jesus?


permalink load more comments (2 replies) [] fitso 1 point 8 days ago

Is it true that the Mazda2 won't be produced in the US next year? I've been looking at them, but I don't want to buy one if they are discontinuing it.
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] charliemccarthy 1 point 8 days ago

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Hey everyone I am A New and Used Car Salesperson here to help Reddit...

http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

I've had my Hyundai now for two years, purchased new. When is the best time to get rid of the GAP insurance?
permalink [] fnordling 1 point 8 days ago

fightingchance.com
permalink [] [deleted] 1 point 8 days ago

So, when you show me that shitty web-scrape of Auto Trader and your sales manager tells me how much money you guys have invested in it, do I pretend to care, do I explain how it's about 15 minutes of work for someone with a decent grasp of a scripting language and a database, or should I just move on to a dealership with a lower overhead?
permalink [] Scott2G 1 point 8 days ago

Serious question here, OP. I want to be a car salesman because I'm very passionate about cars, however, when I go to apply all dealerships say I need a year or two of experience. Where would I go to get the experience?
permalink [] Spring4Daffodils 1 point 8 days ago

I'm interviewing for a job as a new car saleswoman at a major dealership where I live. Any tips on how to a. Get the job and b. be successful? Direct me if you've already answered!
permalink [] Fuck_Your_Squirtle 1 point 8 days ago

I want a 2013 Mazdaspeed3 with the tech package.. 24,250 - 24,800 out the door do-able?
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] austinbayarea 1 point 8 days ago

I had a carfax done when I bought my car... they had every single oil change on it.
permalink [] Mythril_Zombie 1 point 8 days ago

Do used car salesmen have their souls removed at the dealerships or do you get sent off to the same place where they harvest them from lawyers?
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] mittensaregloves2 1 point 8 days ago

I walked out of a mazda dealership in November. They had a 2012 speed3 I wanted. Note: they also had 2013 speed3s on the lot. I wanted it for 22k no more. was gping to pay cash and leave 2k as a deposit that day. The car has interior lighting option and some other options that added about $800 to the base price (no tech package). I walked out the door, got lunch and went to a Honda dealership and bought from them. Who was on the loosing end here? ? Was I looking to get the car for too little or was the sales manager being a pain. It really rubbed my father the wrong way when the sales manager insisted he was only making 250 on the car by selling it to us for 22600 and would not go any lower and told us we could leave because it was not getting sold for 22. What is your opinion??
permalink load more comments (4 replies) [] Intro7spectre 0 points 8 days ago

How does it feel to be a child of satan?


permalink

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Hey everyone I am A New and Used Car Salesperson here to help Reddit...

http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

[] Ig79 1 point 8 days ago

Hey I hope you're still answering questions. I'm going to be in the market for a new truck in the next couple months. I qualify for Ford x-plan and I'm very likely going to get an F250. I will have a cash down payment in the neighborhood of $6500 (current vehicle is not trade-in worthy due to salvage title so I'll sell on my own). What I'm wondering is where current interest rates are for new trucks and what sort of credit requirements are needed to get approved? I can afford payments but my credit is not perfect (high 600's). Thanks for the AMA!
permalink load more comments (2 replies) [] bobdle 1 point 8 days ago

What if you're dealing with (in person) an internet sales manager that claims to make "no commission" off your purchase. how much bs is that?
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] French87 1 point 7 days ago

do you deal with trade ins? what are your opinions on people trading in modded cars? like, body kit/lowered/rims... I am thinking of getting out of my G35, but it is pretty heavily modded looks-wise, I feel like that is going to bite me in the ass. Problem is I can't go back to stock because the car is painted BMW' Alpine White, it is no longer an OEM Infiniti color. how fucked am i?
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] goingthruit 1 point 7 days ago

I am currently 1.5 years into a 3 year lease. When/What is the best time to bring it back in to exchange for a car that I want to finance?
permalink load more comments (4 replies) [] tabledresser 1 point 7 days ago* Questions Answers I solved a rubiks cube for a customer. And one time as a joke I put a picture of a baby on my desk in a frame, my manager wasn't too happy about that one, then I got a customer, forgot about the framed picture and she ended up buying a car and asking about the baby. I couldn't help but to respond yes that is my baby, and then cringe. Somehow I played it off, made up a key & peele name for the baby and the whole 9 yards. RIP Baby Picture. Does it have a warranty? Do you have a car fax?

What is the craziest thing that you have done to make a sale?

If I would buy a used car, what are the best questions to ask to the salesman?

Great advice but you can't tell what is currently wrong with the car with the car fax. The BEST question is, "Do Absolutely that as well! The reason i suggest a carfax is several reasons. you mind if I have my mechanic take a look at it first." To know how many owners or if it was a lease or loaner car. To make sure it hasn't had any wreck/body damage/flood damage or a salvage title. To see if it has been serviced regularly and you can tell what (if any) major engine components have been replaced. Prove that no odometer has been rolled-back.

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Hey everyone I am A New and Used Car Salesperson here to help Reddit...

http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

Questions

Answers Just to say Show me the Car-Fax.

Just to say Show me the Car-Fax. Nice try, Car-Fax salesman. Let's say I have gone through all of college and Pharmacy school without a car. I have about 8 grand saved up and need to buy a car for my upcoming year of rotations. What would you recommend? Should I look at car lots? Or maybe buy from someone selling a car personally? Any make/model I should look at? Thanks!!

R/karmaconspiracy.

If you just graduated within the last 6 months you qualify for a first time buyers/graduate program through most Automakers, This ensures you won't get fucked on an interest rate on your first vehicle because you have a 0 credit score.

View the full table on /r/tabled! | Last updated: 2013-02-02 19:56 UTC This comment was generated by a robot! Send all complaints to epsy.
permalink [] ifkb99 1 point 7 days ago

Are you anything like the stereotypical used car salesman?


permalink [] joshywashy 1 point 6 days ago*

i recently bought a 2012 mazda 3 i touring for with moonroof and bose speakers for $16,300 before taxes/fees. Did i get a good deal? I should also note, the salesmen refused to lower the advertised price because they said with the internet nowadays people can compare prices much easier and they have to lower their prices to draw people in. Therefore, the prices usually can not go much lower than what they advertise. Is this true also? After we agreed on the price the salesmen told me they installed a $700 car alarm and I had to purchase it too if i want the car. Is this even legal? I was super pissed when they pulled that crap on me.
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] Mzmelbee 1 point 2 days ago

If I'm paying cash for a new car(well 2013), what are the chances of it getting knocked down 7-8k from msrp? I've known of someone getting 10k off at this same dealership but I've also heard that it is harder to get a deal when it's not financed. Thoughts?
permalink load more comments (2 replies) [] DancesWithCanoes 1 point 14 hours ago

whats up dude im about to be out of my three year lease, i went to get a new car and they give me a price but just say they are paying off the balance of my old car. im going to end up paying more for the car than i originally paid except this time i traded in a car. am i getting duped?
permalink load more comments (4 replies) load more comments (15 replies)

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Hey everyone I am A New and Used Car Salesperson here to help Reddit...

http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17ffwh/hey_everyone_i_am_a...

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