90% of all vehicles can be negotiated, despite what salesmen say. Sometimes because of their pushy tactics one can’t see the light. When a car comes out and is new, there tends to be a demand factor and that controls the selling price, especially if there has been a lot of marketing hype.

Vehicles that are 6000lbs+ have a sizable tax deduction. It used to be significantly more. But let’s face it folks, the rich stay rich because they are in the know, especially with tax loopholes.

Please consult an accountant for specifics. The Porsche Cayenne (SUV) increased their weight so that this tax deduction could be taken.

Dealers hire professional speakers to come in to “pump them up”. They concentrate on closing techniques, assessing the client, etc. Further, they educate management on how to find the right type of salesman as their turnover rate is high and they don’t want to waste time on people who can’t close.

That’s right, once you get on their lot you are fair game! Can you say “pressure”?

Computers in cars.

This is a positive feature as well as a disadvantage. Cars, especially those with Turbos can be modified just by altering the computer and basically unleash the power and increase a huge amount of horsepower. Even normal engines can take advantage of this. However, this is frowned upon from dealers and can void your warranty.

The bad. Just like jets have this thing called the “black box” and by this they can ascertain on what happened if the jet crashes, we have a similar thing for cars. The insurance companies are pushing for these to be used. For example, you are speeding, well next thing you know you have a ticket in your mailbox. Pretty convenient eh? Or even better they would be able to track your mileage and tax you accordingly. Shame on them. Please, don’t take my word on this. This is being implemented as I write this in various states and Countries. Awareness is key.

Do you have any recourse when things go awry?

YES you do! Dealers have been taking advantage of this for a LONG time. I’m all about nudging them and going up the chain of command. Service Writers, Service/Sales Managers, Customer Relations (big dealerships), General Managers and possibly the President. (Note: Keep in mind the higher their position, the more experienced, knowledgeable they are for the most part). You do have recourse such as the Better Business Bureau, small claims court ($30 fee) and last but not least using an attorney. Please refer to lemon laws before such a process takes place.

However, this is putting the horse before the cart. With our tools this shouldn’t happen, but it’s good to know that help is easily gotten! Can you say confidence?

And dealers have their guns ready, so do your homework and document everything when things start to go awry.