2013 and Earlier - Mazda3 Prices Paid and Buying Experience

ral2167

why get into all this fee stuff in the first place? seems more logical to negotiate an out the door price. let's say you want to buy a car for invoice, plus ttl. so you add to this invoice price the tax, title, license, and what you might consider a fair figure for any fees (to some, fair would be $0). once you have this out-the door figure, then that's your bottom line.

slate1

"why get into all this fee stuff in the first place? seems more logical to negotiate an out the door price."

EXACTLY

When I walked through the doors of Carolina Mazda to buy my '06 3sGT I knew exactly where I wanted my bottom line to be with regard to the out-the-door price.

What I ended up with was a few hundred dollars MORE than I was looking to get on my trade but I paid the doc-fees; it was a wash and I could have cared less.

I got the bottom line price I was looking for, which was a great deal - I could give a damn how they came to it!

Some people enjoy the negotiating process and the "game". I can't stand it personally - I've always figured a FAIR well researched price for the car and a FAIR well researched price for my trade and stood firm by those numbers. Again, don't care how they get there - just as long as they get to that bottom line.

I may be in the minority, but I want the dealership to make money - that's their business! I don't want to screw them anymore than I want them to screw me.

I'm going to be relying on these people to stand behind the product they sold me - mighty hard to do if they're barely staying in the black.

z71bill

Out the door pricing is a good way to go - but 9 times out of 10 what the customer thinks the out the door is and what ends up on the contract are two different things.

The difference is normally a document and advertising fee -added in AFTER THE OUT THE DOOR PRICE IS AGREED ON.

I don't care if the dealership charges a $10,000 doc fee - all that matters is the final price I pay - but we all must agree that the reasons dealers (try to) add this stuff in is just to charge MORE for the car.

audia8q - I know we have had many disagreements in the past - like when you claimed most people were paying MSRP for the Mazda3. I admit that left me with an opinion that is hard to over come, but I am not attacking you specifically -

But I don't understand something - maybe you can explain -

If you just negotiate an out the door price - what does the destination fee have to do with anything? I would think that if you REALLY do business this way - there would be no need to even talk about the destination fee. Or any fee - would there? Wouldn't you just say - our price is $21,212 OUT THE DOOR.

Or do you say OUR OUT THE DOOR PRICE IS $20,512 - PLUS DESTINATION charge of $550 - and a $150 doc fee? Why bother detailing out ANYTHING if you really are working to an out the door price? Why even bother with listing doc fees on the buyers order (what ever that means)? I assume since you don't think ad fees are any of the customers business you don't detail them out in the price - seems strange - you detail a doc fee - which is nothing but a made up number - but don't want to detail an ad fee that is a real charge (just like destination charge).

I always try and negotiate an out the door price - plus TT&L - just seems easier that way.

But after this price is agreed on - THEN I want to know - what is the exact amount I need to write the check for to drive off with the car. I know that the sales tax is 6.25% plus license will be about $250 or so. I have a good idea what the amount should be - it sure is funny when the amount I need to write the check for is $750 more than my estimate - because of a $150 doc fee and a $600 paint protection package that were added in - thats when the fun usually starts.

Does OUT the door price normally include TT&L?

audia8q

When I quote an out the door number its just that....the amount you write the check to drive away. Any other number isnt an OTD price IMO.

I have never quoted a price that is plus destination or ad fees when pricing is available....If the customer doesn't want the OTD number (more than you would expect) just the selling price, I quote the price of the car including destination and ad fees. The only time I don't include ad fees or destination is when a customer orders a car that has no pricing...example, we have 3 orders for Mazda3Speeds already but no pricing.

You know, you just never stop with the attempts to implying I'm a liar...with statements like "if you really.." etc. It seems that you just can't have a discussion without personal attacks...either your just a rude person or your not capable of a honest debate. Either way you look foolish. I promised myself to ignore you and your posts a long time ago and I made the mistake to try and correct your partial truths but now I'm done.

z71bill

Although I really do think that a large % of car dealers are liars - the only time I can recall ever posting anything close to calling you a liar would be when you kept insisting that most Mazda3's are sold at MSRP - which - since you CLAIM to be a car dealer - would just be a self serving statement.

If you want me to I could add - "pants on fire" to the end of any post where I think you are not being completely honest. Seems kind of grade school like - but if it helps you understand then it may be worth it.

Anyway - I still don't see why you get all upset if I don't like paying fees that are added in after the price is agreed to - I will continue to try and get people to JUST SAY NO to add on fees.

I have never seen a post from you that tries to dispute my logic about add on fees. Seems like if you really want a HONEST debate you would do that (or at least try ). It would be fun to see you try and defend the practice. But I really think I would win that debate without much trouble.

kyfdx

No more personally directed comments, or all participants will be sent to their room..

This forum is for specific information about Prices Paid and Buying Experience for the Mazda3.. There are plenty of general topics here about the car buying process..

Thanks for you cooperation and participation..

regards,
kyfdx
Host-Prices Paid Forums

benzy1

In August of 2005, I paid Edmunds invoice + $140 on a 2005 Mazda3 S auto w/ side curtain air bags and the sport package with 17" rims (the total was 17,1xx + TT&L).

There was a bull crap add on in the finance room, but that was dealt with swiftly.

zsk

I had a great buying experience for a slightly used 2005 Mazda3 5 door at Jake Sweeney in Cincinnati. Great service from sales, no hassle during the finance phase, full tank of gas and complete detail job. Price was right too.

corndogg13

I just bought my 2006 Mazda3 5-door GT last week in Dallas, with Moonroof/6CD package, rear-bumper step plate, cargo net, and wheel locks for $20,794.

jevic

2006 Mazda 3i Touring (manual) with SAB & Moonroof packages
Quoted at $17,100 (has all fees except tax, title, etc.)

jerchri

Kudos to Ramsey Mazda in Northern New Jersey.

Salespeople and managers did a great job and really earned my business. They worked with me and helped me deal with competing offers from other relentless dealerships.

So far I'm happy with the 3i Touring, but it's only been a few days. My first Mazda so I'm a bit nervous...been a Honda person forever.

cargirl13

Anyone bought a car from a Mazda dealer around Boston? What has your buying experience been?

tankmaster

quoted $18,086. for a S touring hatch with the sun roof/CD player package. Dealer says it's invocie. Any thoughts?

Thanks,

Jay

mikeark1

Jay.....On April 25 I purshased a 2006 Mazda3 HB touring manual w/ moonroof and 6CD changer and was told invoice was $18086. NorthPoint Mazda/VW in North Little Rock AR. sold me the car for this price. Mike

erc1

I have seen some reference to when the '07 3 will be out in the forums--does anyone know the specific time frame in the summer that the new models will be widely available? I am thinking about waiting for the modified interior (can't stand the two tone S) and new aux input, but I am concerned that the probable price increase and the time it will take to get a reasonable deal might make this a silly mistake.
I'm looking for opinions about how hard it is to get an invoice deal on a new model year--it seems like it shouldn't be too bad since there's no body change.

thanks!

audia8q

does anyone know the specific time frame in the summer that the new models will be widely available?

production starts sometime in June and they should show up by late September/October depending on your location.

mrblonde49

I'm looking for opinions about how hard it is to get an invoice deal on a new model year--it seems like it shouldn't be too bad since there's no body change. "

Since it's only a minor refreshing, I think you'll be able to get a similar deal right away.

dd123

Just wondering whats a good trade in price
I have neew car 11k miles / 2005 model in a pristine condition

Can i fetch a excellent condition price using kbb.com value ?

thanks

DD

villebillies

Hey everyone, interested in buying a 3 s either touring or not. What kind of price should I expect to get them to go down to? Would it be possible to get them down into the 15,000s? I dont need many more options (other than included in s-model) and auto isnt nec. either. Thanks for any help!

uday85

Hello:
I am interested in buying a 2006 Mazda3 S 5-Door with a manual transmission. A dealer here in Cleveland (OH) quoted me $17930. I have access to the S-plan and hence the price was bought down to $16430. Is this a reasonable deal ? or am I paying too much. Any input is appreciated.

jerchri

I found the S-Plan price to be closer to $16200 for the 5Door S with the manual tranny. It's possible that the price you were quoted includes some sort of advertising fee. Check on each of the fees to make sure they aren't overcharging you for documentation, advertising, etc... Keep them honest.

Fees, fees, fees, fees, fees :mad:

uday85

Thank you for your reply. They want to add $560 as the destination charge to the $16200 and about $200 as documentation/ legal fee. I was able to bargain to about $16430. I appreciate your input. Thank you

stwgn45

I have recieved a quote that is so low, it seems suspect. A 2006 3i-automatic, 6 CD/Moonroof package, cargo net for $16,500. That is about $1,000 under invoice. I have no special plans/incentives, just a regular car-buyer.

I have been told that due to the dealership's expansion, they (the dealer) are recieving some kick-backs from Mazda and are trying to move the cars on the lot. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated. I know to watch out for hidden fees and such, but I am wondering what else to look for.

z71bill

I must be missing something -

A 2006 Mazda3 i auto / Cd moonroof / net (per Edmunds) has an invoice price of $14,650 -

The Touring model (same options) invoice is $17,142 -

If its the Touring model $16,500 would be a good deal -

mensa

was this a touring? and what city and state are you in? I am looking for a great deal. has anyone gotten a Mazda 3s touring, auto under invoice? I've been offered 17,900 plus tt&l. I live in sj Ca. This is 100 under the s plan that I qualify for.

comets8518

I've had a hard time finding specific 2006 s-plan pricing. I found 2005 lists though. From what I underdstand its near (maybe below) invoice. Is there a price list I can see somewhere

stwgn45

Yes, it is the touring model. The invoice that I found was somewhere closer to $17,500. No other dealership has been able to come close. I am very wary of the deal, though I believe that I know most (if not all) of the "tricks."

z71bill

I like to ask them to provide me with a drive out price -

I normally ask them to provide me with the EXACT amount I will need to write the check for - this will almost always
expose any hidden fees - but not always - some of these car dealers are so dishonest they will lie about it anyway.

stwgn45

They gave me the drive out price: $17,971. Destination was included in the $16, 500 quote. adding about $1,000 in tax leaves a little under $500 for title,tags, etc. I am calling the dealership back this afternoon. I will let you know what I find out. I appreciate the feedback.

atsang1

I received a quote for 3s auto, about $17188, in San Jose, CA, is that a good deal?
for anyone who have bought cars in CA, how much I have to pay for title, license, etc.. (besides tx)?

I appreciate anyone's feedback.

mensa

Does your price include destination? I got quoted 17,481 minus 100 plus tt&l no other fees. They went 100 under s plan price from almaden Mazda.. I also live in SJ. Where did you get your quote from?

atsang1

I also got my quote from Almaden Mazda, I thought it included destination, but now I have to verify that with them, I think I'll go take a test drive this weekend.

mensa

Ok. Let me know how it goes! I had a good experience with the test drive with no pressure at Almaden. Thanks for your response.

z71bill

What good does it do to get a price quote that does not include the TOTAL AMOUNT YOU will pay?

I can understand talking about a price PLUS TT&L - that just makes it easier to negotiate - and the sales tax % and tags will not change between dealers.

But if you accept a quote and are not sure if it includes destination charges (that's like $600) or are not sure if there are other fees and cost that will be added in - then you are not asking the right questions.

You are setting yourself up to end up paying more for the car. You call two dealers and one says the car is $18,200 - they next says its $17,900 - so you go in and spend 2 or 3 hours at the $17,900 dealer - take a test drive - have them look at your trade in - bla bla bla - end up in finance - fill out the credit app - then at the end find out that the $17,900 did not include $600 in destination charges and a $300 ad fee and a $200 Doc fee - so that means it really costs $19,000 -

Kind of makes the $18,200 deal (which may have included all of these fees) look pretty good. Sad part is many people will - at this point just go ahead and take the deal - who wants to spend another 3 hours at the second dealership.

audia8q

I normally ask them to provide me with the EXACT amount I will need to write the check for

I agree.....somthing isn't quite right with these numbers.

stwgn45

Clearly, as does everyone. The question, is "what?"

atsang1

I confirmed with the internet dept director, she said it included destination, final price should be adding 9.5% to that price. I'm going to test drive at noon on Sat.

any advice on things I should look for or beware of?

thanks in advance
AT

tsgeisel

Make sure you have an appointment. When I was in test drive mode, there just wasn't anyone at the dealership on a weekend to help me with that.

mensa

make sure you check the ac and make sure it works well. in other forums people have complained about the ac not working well enough to cool off the car in hot weather. you can go to the problems and solutions forum and read about it. good luck with the test drive.. zoom zoom zoom

z71bill

What is the 9.5% - sounds real high for sales tax - but that of course depends on where you live -

Its really none of my business - so tell me to (lets keep inside the Edmunds rules) take a hike if you want - but why not get all of the details and post it - like

Car $17,000
Tax 500
rip off fee 300
Check oil fee 100
add oil fee 35
Fee fee (my favorite) 85 (Some dealers list this as Fe fe)
License 120

Total Drive off $18,140

Then we can really know what the deal is.

Its always better to talk about the price before you buy (or agree to take the deal) - then you can still do something about it.

I always thought it was strange when someone posts - I paid $xx,000 for a Mazda3 with bla bla bla options - is this a good deal? Always better to know before.

atsang1

I haven't bought the car yet, I just want to know if it's a good deal or not before I pull the trigger
Here is the number I got from the quote: 17188 (including destination), the lady said add 9.5% ($1632) for fees and taxes, since I live in SF bay area, taxes is 8.25 or 8.5%, so about 1% goes to doc/license fee. The final price I expect is about 18820 plus/minus 100. (I'll wait or look for 6 is the out of door price is more than 19000, I should know when I do the test drive)

AT

kyfdx

9.5% sounds about right for California...

samtheman1

Just picked up a lovely copper red 3s Touring (manual tranny) with moonroof for $17,469 + $125 dealer prep charge from Bass Mazda in Cleveland (drove up from Pittsburgh). MSRP was $19,065, invoice was $17,969 and dealer had me sign off on a $500 rebate that was paid to the dealer (and he lowered my price to $17,469). Looks like Mazda has a dealer incentive program on now to clear the 06's out.

I did an inventory search on mazdausa.com and located 4-5 cars (in 250 mile radius) with color and features I was looking for and requested quotes. Dealers got back to me quickly and aggressively. Great way to buy if you are willing to drive a little to get the car and deal you want.

For those of you waiting for 07's, the colors are changing considerably. No more copper red, winning blue, titanium grey. Details on 07 colors are in the Mazda 3 sedan thread.

z71bill

My last car the sales tax was 6.25% and that seemed like stealing.

Its sad that the government makes more off the sale of a new car then the dealership that sells it - but since this is not a political board I won't go there.

slate1

"since I live in SF bay area, taxes is 8.25 or 8.5%"

8.5% - that's criminal... seriously...

You should move to the great state of South Carolina my friends! Home of grits, lowcountry bbq, and the flat $300 automobile sales tax...

audia8q

Its sad that the government makes more off the sale of a new car then the dealership that sells it

so true, in many cases they make more than the manufacturer made also!!....it reminds me of the gas taxes. Here in CT the state makes alot more than anyone else in the transaction. I think its up to 54 cents per gallon in taxes. It's criminal.

tsgeisel

It's part of the luxury tax that comes with not having to worry about hurricanes.

Also, part of that local tax goes directly to road improvement projects that have been sorely needed.

A bit ridiculous, yes, but there you go.

autonomous

Let's consider that if governments were not involved that would mean that others (auto dealerships and manufacturers?) would be responsible for building, maintaining and policing the roads. And then, of course, there is the issue of maintaining the air quality. I wonder if that would affect the price of vehicles?

As I scoot around my neighbourhood, I'm glad to pay taxes to ensure the roads and environment are being taken care of by various local, regional and national bodies. It's all part of being a responsible citizen.

atsang1

yeh, i know, that's the price to pay for enjoying california sunshine without worrying about snow or hurricane.
i appreciate everyone's response
any advice on negotiation with the sales person.
thx
AT

cricket311

Freeman Mazda in Irving, TX just emailed me a price on a Mazda3 s touring from their Internet manager: $18,078 (desination and auto transmission included) plus TT+L. Sales tax is 8.25% here. Sounded reasonably fair to me, but any thoughts or opinions from anybody else in this area? Or has anyone had any experiences with this dealership? Internet manager also said adding leather seating would be $500 more. But I've noticed that whenever I build one online, it'll only let you add leather seating if you add the moonroof/6 CD package. Am I stuck with those other options if I just want to add leather seating only?