Negotiations

[donnapep]

Hi Everyone,

I have managed to get the price of a 2005 Toyota Corolla LE down to $350 over dealer cost. When I inquired about the VIN etching fee ($300), I told them that I didn't want to pay that much for VIN etching when I could do it myself for $40. I was told that if they had known that I didn't want to pay that fee, then they wouldn't have given me such a good deal in the first place. Is it reasonable to expect them to give me a deal of $350 over dealer cost AND not charge me for the VIN etching? Do I have a leg to stand on here, and if so, how can I convince the dealer of that?

Also, is it true that VIN etching is done at the factory, before the car even reaches the dealership?

Thanks for any and all help.

[YogsVR4]

They can afford to sell you the car at dealer invoice. They get a holdback of a few percent regardless of the actual price they charge. They're just looking to make a few more buck off of you. It sounds fishy to me to begin with.

When negotiating for a car, I alway have the out the door price in mind. Thats car, tax, title and not a dime more. It takes a bit of time to get those factored in (well, just the tax portion) but they can cut up the money however they see fit.

Be very suspectful of any added fees after the deal has been made. I've never even heard of an 'etching' fee. Usually they try 'document fees' and the like.