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Due-Ad-7308 t1_j29qjnf wrote

Sadly the dealership mafia has gotten laws passed that you need to buy through slimy salesmen and dealerships unless it's a new American company (so if you're interested in Tesla you can buy one from their store and walk out, otherwise you'll be talking to the sleezebags).

No real "best way" when it comes to new cars besides being a smart consumer. Know what MSRP is, know what acceptable dealer fees are (ideally none, just buy the thing!). Shop around and get OTD prices and LEAVE THE LOT without buying to compare on your own time. This is easier with new cars as you have MSRP on your side (beware they'll spook you with "oh but you'll neverrr find a car like this in 2023's wacky markets!")

So: "yes" dealerships suck and are a weird remnant of the 1960's that stuck around due to cartels. But "no" you don't necessarily need to get screwed by them.

My advice would be to watch the 1999 comedy "suckers". Aside from being a great flick, you'll come out with a basic idea of the most blatant ripoffs to dodge.

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phunkystuff t1_j29segm wrote

Ah dang This makes sense. Thanks for the response!

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dig030 t1_j2al9kq wrote

A lot of dealerships aren't so bad anymore, or have a few remaining "bad" salesmen for walk-ins. Once you know what car you want, negotiate price via e-mail. Just e-mail a bunch of dealers for their best price, pick the best / most responsive one. Make sure you get the out the door price.

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pensiveChatter t1_j2a71tb wrote

Is this the Imported Vehicle Safety Compliance Act? I had someone tell me they bought a BMW and was flown out to Germany to pick up the car in order to get some kind of minor discount. This law seems to prevent that.

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