2006 Solara SLE V6 does have projector eliptoid HID headlights, integrated fog lamps and driving lights according to the window sticker. Now thats a lot of lights. And they really are bright. The part I like best is the auto dimming outside mirror (drivers side).
Salesmans definition: Someone who buys all his cars from the same salesman at MSRP, has all service done at the dealership and brings all his friends and relatives in to shop. Sends Christmas card to salesman with money in it.
Customers definition: Someone who buys a car once every 20 years and grinds until the salesman cries, has all service done at Midas Muffler, tells his friends that you ripped him off. Sends a bad CSI to the mfg.
Some car companies will give an extra rebate to customers who have purchased a car in the past and return for their next one.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
even tho the service advisor at the tom's river honda place has been very pleasant I think they are extremely expensive.whenever my mom takes her honda there for service she ends up paying over $1,000.
Now that is an interesting request. Is there really a such a thing as "loyal customer"? My definition, as customer, would be giving the same sales person/dealership the first shot at selling me a car when I am in the market, every time.
Usually, I have a good idea of what I want and what the prices should be. I try to make sure he gets paid and I get (in my mind) a 'reasonable' deal or one I can live with.
Someone who buys a car once every 20 years and grinds until the salesman cries, has all service done at Midas Muffler, tells his friends that you ripped him off. Sends a bad CSI to the mfg.
You forgot and then takes the price down the street to save $50. :P
Someone who buys all his cars from the same salesman at MSRP, has all service done at the dealership and brings all his friends and relatives in to shop. Sends Christmas card to salesman with money in it.
You forgot, loyal customer who also buys extended warrany, paint protection, pin stripes at full price and finances through the dealer at wholesale rate plus 4%
My definition, as customer, would be giving the same sales person/dealership the first shot at selling me a car when I am in the market, every time.
Actually, if the loyal customer is still going to shop I would prefer to be given the last shot at selling them a car every time they are in the market
I define a loyal customer as a person who's trust and confidence you have gained through good customer service after the sale and when they are ready to buy they call you and say, "I want one of them new Zorch's with the Panoramic View Roof, that new SYNC system, in a FWD with Leather. You know the colors I like and what I have for a trade. Can you put some figures together and I will be there at 3:00 PM.
You get a car ready, have the figures, they drive it and buy it.
This relationship will continue until you as a salesperson takes advantage of that trust. When that happens all bets are off and you are back to square one with them.
Those of you who have never had/allowed such a relationship with a salesperson have no idea what you are missing out on.
Now granted it is kind of a moot point for those of you who trade every 10+ years and send no referall business in, or change brands when ever you trade.
But for the guy/gal who is in the 3 year trade cycle it works quite well.
When I first moved to this small town from Virginia Beach I bought my wife a car at the local Chevy/Cadillac dealer. Later we were invited to a hot dog thing at the dealership. I was getting my dog and the little lady serving the dogs said "how do you like you new car?" I said it's just fine and the service department was very good. She seemed interested so I continued. I was going to buy one for me from the Ford dealer down the street, but "that shyster wanted to dig a hole in my pocket". Next thing you know the hot dog tongs are waving around. Juice is flying. She's saying Oh My Oh My. 4 people rush to her side and calm her down. Later the salesman told me who she was. Turns out she was the owner of the Cadillac store and the Ford dealer was her son. and all I could say was "Oh My". We now buy in West Virginia.
A gentleman in Poland had been a loyal Toyota customer, having his Land Cruiser as fourth Toyota vehicle. He received a very warm "thank you" letter from Toyota saying how much they appreciated his business and as talken of their appreciation invited him to promotional purchase of a set of new tires. So the man goes to a designated place to learn that the promotional "thank you" price was 20% higher than direct purchase price from a tire store... :sick:
My sister had several bad experiences at the TR Honda. Of course, that is the only dealership she has ever visited without me, so that may be why. ;b
I've never had a good experience at any Toyota store. I was kicked out of the TR one and the salesperson in Freehold walked away and never came back. So unless a new one is built in this area, I'll never buy a new 'yota. ... Sorry, Mack. I obviously have never been to your store.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
You get a car ready, have the figures, they drive it and buy it.
This relationship will continue until you as a salesperson takes advantage of that trust. When that happens all bets are off and you are back to square one with them.
Those of you who have never had/allowed such a relationship with a salesperson have no idea what you are missing out on.
Trust is hard to earn in this business. You must also admits, it's not completely "unearned" by the industry. Using your example Zorch (how do I love that name ): 1. The dealership will be subjected to increadible temptation of putting too high price on it, stealing the trade, putting too high financing, etc. If not you, there is your manager, used car manager, F&I guy. Possibilities of losing a deal and customer are endless - and they happen all the time. 2. The customer goes on "Prices Paid" forum and learns that some guy on the other Coast claims he bought the same Zorch three thousand less than his dealers price. Being somewhat knowledgeable, he might realize there is no three thousand in the deal left, as that number may not be real - but a few hundreds, perhaps a thousand.
How quickly do you think such relationship can get sour? I say very quickly. So many people on both side will say - screw loyalty, better not even try. Approach every deal as it you saw the guy first time in his life and never see him again afterwards.
This will be especially true in "commodity" brands, where no time is given for the relationships, the unit commissions are low anyway, and the same vehicle configurations can be picked up in five other places within 50-mile radius. I can see much more potential for a true rapport and loyalty building in luxury brands, where some pampering is simply expected as a part of the deal.
You are right, greed will get you every time. But I did my best to never let that happen. I would rather sell you and all your family and friends cars for a long time and make a fair profit each time, then sell you one and be done.
Hey guys just wanted to say this is a great forum to read. I love the stories.
The "loyal customer" thread has gotten my attention and wanted some feedback on the following issue I have with the dealership I have been buying from. To start I have purchased (leased) 3 30K+ cars in 7 years, my parents two, I got my employer to purchase 3 (at one time) for the salesmen and I have sent over quite a few referrals. Having said that I get upset that every time I have bought I have to "grind" out a deal with them. I know all the managers and all deals have been through the same sales person. Am I wrong to just expect a good deal out of the box, or is this just what to expect? I always go there last and ask them to beat the lowest quote I get, they do, but always with a song and dance. In all fairness the dealership is great and have taken care of everything well thats why I go back. So, am I loyal, or just a PIA who expects a good deal because of previous business?
I would rather sell you and all your family and friends cars for a long time and make a fair profit each time, then sell you one and be done.
Suppose I did that and purchased many cars and trucks from you. What would you sell me the Shelby GT convertible for? What do you think is fair? Would you give me MRSP, $500 or $1000 less than othes buy it for, or do you think giving first crack to buy it at the same ADM is fair?
Not trying to bust your chops, just interested in your view.
Suppose I did that and purchased many cars and trucks from you. What would you sell me the Shelby GT convertible for? What do you think is fair? Would you give me MRSP, $500 or $1000 less than othes buy it for, or do you think giving first crack to buy it at the same ADM is fair?
The opportunity to buy it is your first benefit. We give prior customers first shot at them.
You may get a $1000 break on the car but it will be no where near MSRP. We just took a $5K deposit on one for $15K over.
The continuing demand on these cars amazes me. Usually by now it has cooled off. We turned down a +$20K offer out of California on the one we have sold. That guy said he heard about us on the internet selling them for +$15K and they were bringing twice that where he lived.
I was wondering what you two "did" to get kicked out. Did you just walk in asking for someone, walk around the lot without asking for someone? Sounds like a shame to have that happen. Its not like Toyota's are Ferrari's and their exhaust doesn't stink.
That just tells me Ford is in big trouble. being moslty supply driven, they have to put incentives on most of their cars, but on those they could charge much more they leave money on the table for dealers. Don't get me wrong - I'm not mad at dealers snatching the profits - more power to them. But seing somebody else making more profit than you on product you manufacture is indication of major screwup. They should fire their entire marketing staff for doing such a great job in market demand prediction.
Dino, then every car manufacture in the world that has ever made a car in high demand is screwed up to. People in California always pay more.
Your Geographical location drives the prices as much as anything.
There are allot more people in California all wanting the same thing then there is in Nashville TN.
It has nothing to do with how Ford is running there business, it has to do with Supply and Demand. I prefer it this way much more then when some one took your line of thinking with the Cobras. They ruined that car.
It has nothing to do with how Ford is running there business, it has to do with Supply and Demand
It has everything to do with the way Ford runs their business. If you do your business right, you will know the demand and price it accordingly to your supply. If you take 15K ADM in Nashville, simplistically it means they sold it to you for 15 grand too low. Ford could get that and did not. They left profits to you, which is great for you, but not so good for them.
It works the other way too. Ford lays an egg and the dealers are forced to give the cars away for little or no profit. Ford still gets all of their money!
All "hot " cars cool off after a period of time. The Marketing guys (rightfully so) price the car to sell after it has cooled. We never put an ADM but will sell our hot cars at MSRP while Cali dealers were getting 15k above MSRP.
Interesting responsed. I define a loyal customer on that after you have sold them their first car they begin to trust you. It may have sold for MSRP, somewhere between invoice and MSRP, or even below invoice depending on the day the transaction transpired. The key word here is "trust". I have quite a few loyal customers who trust me to do the right thing with their family, friends, and colleuages. Here's a perfect example: I sold a lady a 4runner in 1997. She wanted a particular color that I had only seen one of in Florida and none in our region. We had to special order it. Special orders take anywhere from three to six months. I told her how long the wait would be and she was ok with it. She did call me every other week to ask if her 4runner was in. Three months later she decides she can no longer wait so decides to buy from stock. A week later the ordered vehicle arrives and I call her since she wanted to see it when it came in. The color was called Autumn Bronze and as I said we went by the color swatch when we ordered it. She went crazy over the car and wanted to trade the one she bought a week earlier. I told her she would lose a lot of money and she decided to keep it. She paid in between invoice and MSRP for the 4runner, paid cash for the vehicle, bought paint and sealant and undercoating. She told me before she drove off that she bought from me because I had gave her all the info she requested over the phone. She sold her previous 4runner privately after I told her what it would bring in the local market, and pretty much conducted everything over the phone. To this day she has bought an Avalon, traded the Avalon on another 4runner, bought another Avalon, a car for her daughter, sent me plenty of referrals. The last vehicle she bought I did lose out on and only because we don't carry that make. She bought a Lexus and she did say she wished we carried that make and she would have bought from. She still gets her service for her Toyotas at our dealership and has since the first one I sold her. More in a bit.
I have told this here before, I'm pretty sure, although long ago. I don't mind rehashing it.
At the store I was kicked out of, it was rather surprising to me. My take is the salesman wanted me to be a laydown for him and he had a chip on his shoulder.
I had driven trucks all my life and was going for my first foray into cars. Anyway, I wanted to check out the big players like Camry. I was driving a Dodge Dakota at the time. I knew enough by this time to have already ordered a Galves book to price my truck. The salesperson took my keys, went for the appraisal (I still don’t understand this process when they just take the number from Galves anyway) and came back to tell me the news while holding the book in his hands. I don’t remember the exact numbers, but he was several thousand under.
I said, “what’cha got there? Galves?” Him: “yup” Me: “and you are getting this quote from Galves?” Him: “yup” Me: “so why are you $3k under?” Him: “huh? Nope. It says it right here.” As he holds the book up for me to see (not that I had to) and points to the top line while hiding the numbers under it. Me: “Ok. I understand where you made the mistake. You see, what you have to do is add the options lines to that base price. SLT plus. V8. Then if you look at the back of the book, it gives you the equation for adding for the low miles .” Him interrupting me: “Your truck is outside running with the keys in it. Bye.”
At first I was shocked. I really didn’t understand what happened. I stood up and said quite loudly, “so you are telling me you don’t even want to TRY to sell me a car??” Then I just started laughing. Ok. No problem. I hadn’t even gotten to test drive it, so it really was no sweat off my brow. I happily left. As a result, they’ve lost at least 5 sales since then from family and friends of mine.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
The trip to the freehold dealer was years later. I decided I shouldn't shirk off a whole brand for 1 dealer. I went there looking for a sporty car and wanted to see if they had any used Celicas. Salesman attacked me in the lot almost immediately. I told him what I was thinking. He pointed out the 1 used Celica in front of me, but that was an automatic, so I wasn't interested. I told him my pricerange, I'm looking for anything sporty with a stick, etc. I turned to look over the lot again, and when I turned back, he was walking away.
*shrug* ADD? pure disinterest? was he going to check on stock? I have NO idea. I finished walking through the used car area, he didn't come back, so I got in my car and left. Maybe he figured they had nothing for me, but at least SAY something. Good grief!
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
That's true - but to the point. It can be easily corrected by customer incentives, in which dealer still can get their money, assuming of course supply-demand balance can be reached within reasonable limits (on some duds it just can't). It often will mean that mfr foots the bill at the end and loses money.
Remember - I am kind of neutral in ADM thing, as long as it represents real demand. If they stick consistently it trully means the MSRP price was too low - so let be it. All I was trying to say it's the very job of marketing people to predict what kind of demand the product will have, then knowing their production figures (both cost and supply) they should get the price just right that everybody gets their cut just right - with them getting the largest piece.
Continuing thoughts, what do you guys think about conquest rebates that only pay to people that own different makes. Kinda pisses off a loyal customer, no?
The ADMs you see on non "hot" cars is nothing more than the dealer going for extra gross. If one complains about it, negotiations start at MSRP. many uneducated buyers will bite on the ADM, and start negotiations there. The factory has nothing to do with it. And truth be know, factorys hate rebates. It cost money to administer them. That is why GM has lowered many MSRPs.
I know there are just ROTTEN stores out there so I'm not surprised. I'm from So. Calif and that is one brutal market where most stores turn their staff over on a monthly basis.
while living in Pa I bought numerous cars and referred many people to a certain dealer. all the staff I dealt with over the years has been excellant. I moved to NC two years ago and when it came time for a new car I went car shopping-not the same-so after getting a price from a local dealer near me-I e-mailed the Pa dealer the price with all the extras that were on the car- I bought the car from them and loved driving it home to NC. I bring the car to the Pa dealer for service and get to visit family and friends at the same time. the first salesperson I bought a few cars from is now in finance and the first service advisor is the service manager.
I'm sure you ran into 2 idiot salespeople. OTOH, never take Galves, NADA, Kelley, Edmunds TMV or any other source as bible - they are guides. As has been discussed at length, they don't account for market and dealer's needs and conditions, recon needed, color, and many other considerations. As has been document, no 2 used cars are the same.
I would still prefer to try to establish a relationship with a local dealer (even if it cost me a little more money), versus one out of state. You never know when you might have some kind of an issue with your car, and driving out of state to the trusted dealer wouldn't be a good idea.
Oh, I wasn't tossed out. I called ahead to see a specific vehicle. I actually had the sales manager on the phone. "Yes, sir, come right up we'll have it out to look at." Now this is a better part of an hour drive but we go. There are a couple of cars parked behind it. He gets a lot kid to find the keys and leaves us sit for an hour before we finally ask someone if they are actually planning on letting us test drive it. Very nicely - not being annoying at all. The sale manager hands us off to another guy and they eventually clear the other cars.
We get back not fully impressed with the van but maybe for the right number. The sales guy says he thought we established a rapport with the manager and we can deal with him. We sit 20 minutes. He comes back. The manager has left for the night. I ask what the price minus our trade would be and he says "Oh, you wouldn't negotiate that much. Come back when the manager's around."
This outfit has dealerships all over a couple of states for every make you can think of. I'm in no hurry to try them again.
The comments earlier on Honda of Toms River are spot on. You have to work like the devil to get them to just do their job for an honest price. It's become not worth it to go there for routine maintenance despite the fact that I get a loaner when I do.
They have been through several names over the year and change managers more often than I can keep track of but it's always the same people that actually own it and teh same folks at the top.
2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
Having spent many years in corporate sales of technical products, I became aware of how vital building relationships is to successful sales. Being high end it is easier, but also can be done at a VW, Chevy, etc. store. Most of us, like isell and joel, have sold many cars as th result of building a relationship with one customer. Repeats do get an owner loyalty discount, and several other perks. In addition, the transaction is always friendly and both parties feel good about it.
Trust me. In my market, Galves is the bible. I'm not saying its accurate and I'm not saying its real market. But EVERY dealer I've been to flips through Galves to price trade-ins. So I have no choice but to play along and price my own through Galves before going shopping. It is also how I judge what I will pay for a used car they are selling. It has served me well ... again, though, just because of where I live. Case in point is the guy in my story. He was holding Galves and said that's what he was using. He just wasn't reading it right and wasn't happy when I tried to give him a lesson.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
I understand about these things being guides rather than the absolute last word but have some pretty laughable experiences with them on either side of the deal.
The one that stands out in my memory was the local Chrysler - Dodge guy who had a used Colt Vista there years ago. He wanted $1,500 over retail and would not budge. He'd bring out reems of paper supporting his price and showing how much he had in it but it is not my concern how much he has in it. I could drive up the road and negotiate $2,000 less than he wants with one hand tied behind my back.
That car sat on his lot forever it seemed. I moved on to something else and when I'd try that dealership again they never let you so much as ask to use the men's room without asking what it would take to get you into a new car today. They are the nearest car dealership to my house and I wouldn't think of buying a car from them.
2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
I don't think I've ever seen Toyota do this in my region. We are lucky that we have the highest number of repeat buyers as a brand. The brand loyal customers are the easiest to sell as opposed to "conquest" buyers. Mack
So if I understand you correctly, if i am trading a vehicle in where you live, and it is in great shape except it needs a windshield, has several very small door dings, and the tires are at 20%, I could get full Galves trade in for it? Oh, I forgot to mention, it is that ugly pale green that never sold well when new.
what do you guys think about conquest rebates that only pay to people that own different makes. Kinda pisses off a loyal customer, no?
I dislike them unless they are running an owner loyalty rebate along with it.
You are correct though, it is nothing more then a slap in the face to the guy buying his 7th F150 truck and you have less rebate for him then a guy driving a Dodge truck who has never even owned a Ford. :confuse:
"Being high end it is easier, but also can be done at a VW, Chevy, etc. store"
Sometimes being at a low end store, and making your customer feel as though they are at a high end store works well also.
Case in point - 3 years ago I bought a run of the mill car. I stumbled upon a dealership of that particular make near my workplace, that for some reason I had never realized was even there. The first warranty repair that came up, I stopped by that dealership, explained to the service manager that I did not buy the car from them (because I didn't know they were there when I bought), but would like to have them do warranty and service work. He graciously agreed, and even volunteered to supply me with a rental every time I was to bring the car in for warranty work.
I then started taking my car there for maintenance, and was really impressed by their professionalism, and would reward them with perfect scores on every survey I got in the mail afterwards. After they found out I was giving them perfect scores, occasionally and oil change, or a state inspection would be done for free, and they told me they would give me a reduced labor rate from then on. Once they did this, I started taking them all my vehicles to work on, as they were now priced in line with the independant shops since I was getting the reduced labor rate.
Now, I have a car that needs to be replaced, and they are going to get first crack at my business. I hope their sales side is as pleasant as their service side.
Jaguar did this a while back. They had a "conquest" program on XJ sedans. If you owned a Lexus,etc. you got something like $3000. Jaguar owners got nothing. It went away very quickly but I have no idea what they were thinking.
Sorry, I just don't buy that. Nobody I know anywhere just gives you book,whatever that book is. The problem w/ Galves or any other book is that they are always out of date. it's like trading stocks w/ last weeks newspaper as your guide. Chances are,the salesperson you dealt with knew what the total Galves value was,and knew that he wasn't going to be able to give you that for your truck,against his car,and just tried to placate you w/ the base amount.
Comments
2013 Mustang GT, 2001 GMC Yukon Denali
package QI to be closer
http://www.edmunds.com/new/2007/toyota/camrysolara/100729499/options.html?action- =1&x=49&y=18
Old girlfriend, working as a waitress, talked about all the other girls complaining about their tips.
She said "They seem to never learn that smiling and being nice to people pay off".
Salesmans definition: Someone who buys all his cars from the same salesman at MSRP, has all service done at the dealership and brings all his friends and relatives in to shop. Sends Christmas card to salesman with money in it.
Customers definition: Someone who buys a car once every 20 years and grinds until the salesman cries, has all service done at Midas Muffler, tells his friends that you ripped him off. Sends a bad CSI to the mfg.
Some car companies will give an extra rebate to customers who have purchased a car in the past and return for their next one.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Usually, I have a good idea of what I want and what the prices should be. I try to make sure he gets paid and I get (in my mind) a 'reasonable' deal or one I can live with.
You forgot and then takes the price down the street to save $50. :P
Someone who buys all his cars from the same salesman at MSRP, has all service done at the dealership and brings all his friends and relatives in to shop. Sends Christmas card to salesman with money in it.
You forgot, loyal customer who also buys extended warrany, paint protection, pin stripes at full price and finances through the dealer at wholesale rate plus 4%
Actually, if the loyal customer is still going to shop I would prefer to be given the last shot at selling them a car every time they are in the market
I define a loyal customer as a person who's trust and confidence you have gained through good customer service after the sale and when they are ready to buy they call you and say, "I want one of them new Zorch's with the Panoramic View Roof, that new SYNC system, in a FWD with Leather. You know the colors I like and what I have for a trade. Can you put some figures together and I will be there at 3:00 PM.
You get a car ready, have the figures, they drive it and buy it.
This relationship will continue until you as a salesperson takes advantage of that trust. When that happens all bets are off and you are back to square one with them.
Those of you who have never had/allowed such a relationship with a salesperson have no idea what you are missing out on.
Now granted it is kind of a moot point for those of you who trade every 10+ years and send no referall business in, or change brands when ever you trade.
But for the guy/gal who is in the 3 year trade cycle it works quite well.
2013 Mustang GT, 2001 GMC Yukon Denali
A gentleman in Poland had been a loyal Toyota customer, having his Land Cruiser as fourth Toyota vehicle. He received a very warm "thank you" letter from Toyota saying how much they appreciated his business and as talken of their appreciation invited him to promotional purchase of a set of new tires. So the man goes to a designated place to learn that the promotional "thank you" price was 20% higher than direct purchase price from a tire store... :sick:
2018 430i Gran Coupe
I've never had a good experience at any Toyota store. I was kicked out of the TR one and the salesperson in Freehold walked away and never came back. So unless a new one is built in this area, I'll never buy a new 'yota. ... Sorry, Mack. I obviously have never been to your store.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
This relationship will continue until you as a salesperson takes advantage of that trust. When that happens all bets are off and you are back to square one with them.
Those of you who have never had/allowed such a relationship with a salesperson have no idea what you are missing out on.
Trust is hard to earn in this business. You must also admits, it's not completely "unearned" by the industry. Using your example Zorch (how do I love that name
1. The dealership will be subjected to increadible temptation of putting too high price on it, stealing the trade, putting too high financing, etc. If not you, there is your manager, used car manager, F&I guy. Possibilities of losing a deal and customer are endless - and they happen all the time.
2. The customer goes on "Prices Paid" forum and learns that some guy on the other Coast claims he bought the same Zorch three thousand less than his dealers price. Being somewhat knowledgeable, he might realize there is no three thousand in the deal left, as that number may not be real - but a few hundreds, perhaps a thousand.
How quickly do you think such relationship can get sour? I say very quickly. So many people on both side will say - screw loyalty, better not even try. Approach every deal as it you saw the guy first time in his life and never see him again afterwards.
This will be especially true in "commodity" brands, where no time is given for the relationships, the unit commissions are low anyway, and the same vehicle configurations can be picked up in five other places within 50-mile radius. I can see much more potential for a true rapport and loyalty building in luxury brands, where some pampering is simply expected as a part of the deal.
2018 430i Gran Coupe
The "loyal customer" thread has gotten my attention and wanted some feedback on the following issue I have with the dealership I have been buying from. To start I have purchased (leased) 3 30K+ cars in 7 years, my parents two, I got my employer to purchase 3 (at one time) for the salesmen and I have sent over quite a few referrals. Having said that I get upset that every time I have bought I have to "grind" out a deal with them. I know all the managers and all deals have been through the same sales person. Am I wrong to just expect a good deal out of the box, or is this just what to expect? I always go there last and ask them to beat the lowest quote I get, they do, but always with a song and dance. In all fairness the dealership is great and have taken care of everything well thats why I go back. So, am I loyal, or just a PIA who expects a good deal because of previous business?
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic / 2022 Icon I6L Golf Cart
That was pretty much my experience in Freehold.
Suppose I did that and purchased many cars and trucks from you. What would you sell me the Shelby GT convertible for? What do you think is fair? Would you give me MRSP, $500 or $1000 less than othes buy it for, or do you think giving first crack to buy it at the same ADM is fair?
Not trying to bust your chops, just interested in your view.
The opportunity to buy it is your first benefit. We give prior customers first shot at them.
You may get a $1000 break on the car but it will be no where near MSRP. We just took a $5K deposit on one for $15K over.
The continuing demand on these cars amazes me. Usually by now it has cooled off. We turned down a +$20K offer out of California on the one we have sold. That guy said he heard about us on the internet selling them for +$15K and they were bringing twice that where he lived.
2018 430i Gran Coupe
Your Geographical location drives the prices as much as anything.
There are allot more people in California all wanting the same thing then there is in Nashville TN.
It has nothing to do with how Ford is running there business, it has to do with Supply and Demand. I prefer it this way much more then when some one took your line of thinking with the Cobras. They ruined that car.
It has everything to do with the way Ford runs their business. If you do your business right, you will know the demand and price it accordingly to your supply. If you take 15K ADM in Nashville, simplistically it means they sold it to you for 15 grand too low. Ford could get that and did not. They left profits to you, which is great for you, but not so good for them.
2018 430i Gran Coupe
Mackabee
Here's a perfect example: I sold a lady a 4runner in 1997. She wanted a particular color that I had only seen one of in Florida and none in our region. We had to special order it. Special orders take anywhere from three to six months. I told her how long the wait would be and she was ok with it. She did call me every other week to ask if her 4runner was in. Three months later she decides she can no longer wait so decides to buy from stock. A week later the ordered vehicle arrives and I call her since she wanted to see it when it came in. The color was called Autumn Bronze and as I said we went by the color swatch when we ordered it. She went crazy over the car and wanted to trade the one she bought a week earlier. I told her she would lose a lot of money and she decided to keep it. She paid in between invoice and MSRP for the 4runner, paid cash for the vehicle, bought paint and sealant and undercoating. She told me before she drove off that she bought from me because I had gave her all the info she requested over the phone. She sold her previous 4runner privately after I told her what it would bring in the local market, and pretty much conducted everything over the phone. To this day she has bought an Avalon, traded the Avalon on another 4runner, bought another Avalon, a car for her daughter, sent me plenty of referrals. The last vehicle she bought I did lose out on and only because we don't carry that make. She bought a Lexus and she did say she wished we carried that make and she would have bought from. She still gets her service for her Toyotas at our dealership and has since the first one I sold her. More in a bit.
Mackabee
At the store I was kicked out of, it was rather surprising to me. My take is the salesman wanted me to be a laydown for him and he had a chip on his shoulder.
I had driven trucks all my life and was going for my first foray into cars. Anyway, I wanted to check out the big players like Camry. I was driving a Dodge Dakota at the time. I knew enough by this time to have already ordered a Galves book to price my truck. The salesperson took my keys, went for the appraisal (I still don’t understand this process when they just take the number from Galves anyway) and came back to tell me the news while holding the book in his hands. I don’t remember the exact numbers, but he was several thousand under.
I said, “what’cha got there? Galves?”
Him: “yup”
Me: “and you are getting this quote from Galves?”
Him: “yup”
Me: “so why are you $3k under?”
Him: “huh? Nope. It says it right here.” As he holds the book up for me to see (not that I had to) and points to the top line while hiding the numbers under it.
Me: “Ok. I understand where you made the mistake. You see, what you have to do is add the options lines to that base price. SLT plus. V8. Then if you look at the back of the book, it gives you the equation for adding for the low miles .”
Him interrupting me: “Your truck is outside running with the keys in it. Bye.”
At first I was shocked. I really didn’t understand what happened. I stood up and said quite loudly, “so you are telling me you don’t even want to TRY to sell me a car??” Then I just started laughing. Ok. No problem. I hadn’t even gotten to test drive it, so it really was no sweat off my brow. I happily left. As a result, they’ve lost at least 5 sales since then from family and friends of mine.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
*shrug* ADD? pure disinterest? was he going to check on stock? I have NO idea. I finished walking through the used car area, he didn't come back, so I got in my car and left. Maybe he figured they had nothing for me, but at least SAY something. Good grief!
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
Remember - I am kind of neutral in ADM thing, as long as it represents real demand. If they stick consistently it trully means the MSRP price was too low - so let be it. All I was trying to say it's the very job of marketing people to predict what kind of demand the product will have, then knowing their production figures (both cost and supply) they should get the price just right that everybody gets their cut just right - with them getting the largest piece.
2018 430i Gran Coupe
You may get a $1000 break on the car but it will be no where near MSRP. We just took a $5K deposit on one for $15K over.
Under the current market circumstances, I think that's fair.
To each their own I guess.
We get back not fully impressed with the van but maybe for the right number. The sales guy says he thought we established a rapport with the manager and we can deal with him. We sit 20 minutes. He comes back. The manager has left for the night. I ask what the price minus our trade would be and he says "Oh, you wouldn't negotiate that much. Come back when the manager's around."
This outfit has dealerships all over a couple of states for every make you can think of. I'm in no hurry to try them again.
The comments earlier on Honda of Toms River are spot on. You have to work like the devil to get them to just do their job for an honest price. It's become not worth it to go there for routine maintenance despite the fact that I get a loaner when I do.
They have been through several names over the year and change managers more often than I can keep track of but it's always the same people that actually own it and teh same folks at the top.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
The one that stands out in my memory was the local Chrysler - Dodge guy who had a used Colt Vista there years ago. He wanted $1,500 over retail and would not budge. He'd bring out reems of paper supporting his price and showing how much he had in it but it is not my concern how much he has in it. I could drive up the road and negotiate $2,000 less than he wants with one hand tied behind my back.
That car sat on his lot forever it seemed. I moved on to something else and when I'd try that dealership again they never let you so much as ask to use the men's room without asking what it would take to get you into a new car today. They are the nearest car dealership to my house and I wouldn't think of buying a car from them.
Mack
I dislike them unless they are running an owner loyalty rebate along with it.
You are correct though, it is nothing more then a slap in the face to the guy buying his 7th F150 truck and you have less rebate for him then a guy driving a Dodge truck who has never even owned a Ford. :confuse:
Sometimes being at a low end store, and making your customer feel as though they are at a high end store works well also.
Case in point - 3 years ago I bought a run of the mill car. I stumbled upon a dealership of that particular make near my workplace, that for some reason I had never realized was even there. The first warranty repair that came up, I stopped by that dealership, explained to the service manager that I did not buy the car from them (because I didn't know they were there when I bought), but would like to have them do warranty and service work. He graciously agreed, and even volunteered to supply me with a rental every time I was to bring the car in for warranty work.
I then started taking my car there for maintenance, and was really impressed by their professionalism, and would reward them with perfect scores on every survey I got in the mail afterwards. After they found out I was giving them perfect scores, occasionally and oil change, or a state inspection would be done for free, and they told me they would give me a reduced labor rate from then on. Once they did this, I started taking them all my vehicles to work on, as they were now priced in line with the independant shops since I was getting the reduced labor rate.
Now, I have a car that needs to be replaced, and they are going to get first crack at my business. I hope their sales side is as pleasant as their service side.
Nobody I know anywhere just gives you book,whatever that book is.
The problem w/ Galves or any other book is that they are always out of date.
it's like trading stocks w/ last weeks newspaper as your guide.
Chances are,the salesperson you dealt with knew what the total Galves value was,and knew that he wasn't going to be able to give you that for your truck,against his car,and just tried to placate you w/ the base amount.