Now that you have a price quote for the car, your big question is probably whether it’s competitive. Edmunds uses the term “Average Price Paid” — also known as Edmunds TMV — as the measure. It’s the amount that others are paying in your area for a similarly equipped car.
Keep in mind that an average price paid is exactly that. Some people have paid more, and others paid less. Some shoppers are only happy if they negotiate their way to a rock-bottom price. But for most shoppers, that usually isn’t worth the hassle and frustration. If your price quote is above the average, it’s not necessarily a reason to walk away from a deal. Here’s why:
A car’s price isn’t the only factor that determines a good car deal. You also should look at the interest rate, the loan term, and the value of your trade-in if that’s part of your deal. There are even some intangibles, such as how the salesperson and the dealership treat you and the time you save in the shopping process. Those are all factors in a good deal. In fact, at this point in the process, you may be able to improve parts of it.
Close the Deal
If the price, financing and fees look right, it’s time to say yes to the deal. From here, you can proceed in one of two ways: Buy at the dealership or have the car and paperwork delivered to your home.
Most people tend to wrap up the sale at the dealership. Once you’ve agreed on a price, the salesperson will take you to the finance and insurance office. Here, you’ll sign the contract and purchase any of the additional products we discussed earlier, such as an extended warranty.
The alternative is to make the sale contingent on having your new car delivered to your home or office. Doing so is a great time-saver and allows you to close the deal in a relaxed environment. If you do request home delivery, even if the sale is contingent on it, you’ll get more cooperation if you’ll agree to receive the car at home during a slow time at the dealership (think Mondays).
Wherever you finalize the deal, review the contract carefully and make sure the numbers match the out-the-door breakdown. Be sure there are no additional charges or fees. A good finance manager will explain each form and what it means. Don’t hurry. Buying a car is a serious commitment. And remember: There is no cooling-off period. Once you sign the contract, the car is yours.
Take Delivery
Whether you take delivery of your car at the dealership or at your home, it should be clean and the gas tank should be full. Give the car a final walk-around, checking for any dents or scratches that might have occurred during transport.
Finally, let the salesperson give you a tour of your new car. The rundown should include showing you how to pair your smartphone via Bluetooth and demonstrating other important features and safety devices. All of this information is in the owner’s manual. But let’s face it, very few people ever read the manual, which can be hundreds of pages long.
If you don’t have time for a complete demonstration when you sign the contract, set up an appointment a week or so later. With the amount of technology that comes in the newest cars, that walk-through is important and very useful. You’ll learn tricks and shortcuts you might not find on your own.
And now there is only one more thing to do: Enjoy your new car.
Make It A Champion Day!
Shop Smart Autos is not responsible for any errors in price or vehicle information provided to us from our dealer partners. We take every precaution to ensure the information is accurate and correct. Any questions please contact the dealer.
