Subaru Crew - Dealers & Pricing

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  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    I doubt rebates will appear, but they have 2.9%-5.9% financing already. If you buy at invoice and get special financing, that's as good a deal as you're going to get on a Forester. They've never carried rebates.

    -juice
  • p0926p0926 Member Posts: 4,423
    I agree with Juice, your dealer will no doubt be willing to sell a 2002 closer to invoice but monetary incentives are unlikely (aside from the low APR financing). One thing to watch though is the supply of 2002s. As the 2003 debut gets closer and closer, the number of 2002s remaining on dealer lots will continue to shrink. A quick check of my local dealer's inventory shows that they currently have 14 Foresters in stock. That's down from a high of almost 30 last fall. So, for the best selection, sooner is better than later. Especially considering that you'll likely only save a hundred bucks or so by waiting until May. (just my .02)

    -Frank P.
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    Fitzmall.com has 62 in stock, but they now have two Subaru locations. But for now supply remains plentiful. January was a bad month for Forester sales, though.

    -juice
  • hamkola3hamkola3 Member Posts: 11
    I will be hunting around my area soon, thanks for the help. I'll post on the Forester board as soon as I am a part of the "in-crowd" :)
    Kurt H.
  • tshin99tshin99 Member Posts: 15
    Hey all,

    Just thought I’d let everyone know that I’m now the owner of an Outback, picked it up yesterday. I’ve been reading these message boards for a month and have posted some questions and gotten great feedback, so I figured I’d share the news.

    2002 Outback LL Bean Edition (Wintergreen)
    Cargo Net
    Premium Sound Package (6-disc in-dash CD and subwoofer w/amplifier)
    Rough Road Package (acrylic hood deflector, rear differential protector, rear dust deflector)
    Wheel Locks

    The MSRP on this is $31,006.
    Invoice price is $27,895.

    I got it for $27,598 plus tax plus $90.50 for doc fees, tags, title and tire tax (I kept the tags from my trade-in and save $30).

    Traded in my beat-up 91 Honda Accord for $1,200.

    Got it from Wilkie Subaru in Philadelphia. I had gotten an offer from another place in Philly for a similar Outback (same except no Rough Road Package) for $27,848 ($100 over invoice) and the people at Wilkie said they’d beat any competing price by $250 (which they did) and then I got the Rough Road Package tossed in for free (after some haggling).

    A couple of weeks ago, I almost got an LL Bean from Rye Ford/Subaru in Rye, NY (where my parents live) for $28,283 (and it didn’t have the RRP, wheel locks, or subwoofer/amplifier) and they were only giving my $450 for my Honda (it was having some mechanical problems at the time). Luckily, my dad saw it for the ripoff it was (this is the first time I’m buying a car) and I didn’t get it.

    Thanks for the all the help, everyone. I’m totally digging the car, especially the wintergreen. Am looking to add a rear gate bar and maybe some window tinting (live in the city and don’t want people to see any crappy stuff I might have) in the future.

    Tom
    P.S. I'm posting this to both the dealer pricing and the outback board in the subaru section. Sorry to those of you who are reading it twice.
  • p0926p0926 Member Posts: 4,423
    Tom- Congrats! Wow, $300 below invoice? That's a great deal!

    -Frank P.
  • hamkola3hamkola3 Member Posts: 11
    Yeee-ha!

    I just made a deal on a 2002 Forester S for invoice + $100, thanks for the great boards on this site, I was prepared because of many of the conversations here. It will be delivered tomorrow morning, I bought it from a dealership about 90 miles away and finalized the last details over the phone. The dealer really gave me an easy sell and never tried to push me to buy anything else, a better experience than when I bought my washer and dryer a couple of years ago. So if anyone is near the Lancaster,CA area and looking give Larry a call at Clutter Motors.
    Kurt H.
  • raybearraybear Member Posts: 1,795
    Isn't that Cutter Motors?

    And what about your local dealer? I've seen him come up with some good deals also.
  • hamkola3hamkola3 Member Posts: 11
    I think I might have messed that name up raybear.
    My local dealer was 300 over invoice and when I told him the guy in Lancaster was giving me the deal for 100 over he said I should "jump on it",(his words), because he couldn't beat it. I told him I appreciated his honesty and went with the other dealer. I do plan on using my local dealer for service and told them that I would see them in the future for such. The $200 might not have been that much of deal if I had to drive up to Lancaster to get the vehice but they were more than willing to drop it and all the final paperwork off at my place.
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    Congrats and welcome to the Crew!

    -juice
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    in the customer satisfaction area, Subaru dealers are listed in the bottom 1/3. Not great news...

    Bob
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    They were before, and I doubt the high-demand WRX did anything to help.

    Did they rate the manufacturers for overall reliability? Last year Subaru was right up there in 7th.

    -juice
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    glanced at the issue. Are you talking about specific models, or a brand in general? They have the multi-page listing with the black and red circles, which they have always had.

    Bob
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    I mean brands in general. Last year they ranked them IIRC. Subaru was behind only Toyota, Honda, Nissan, and the 3 luxury clones of those makes.

    -juice
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    I'll have to check.

    Bob
  • stevesr0stevesr0 Member Posts: 24
    I was looking at Subaru dealers with internet sites and saw the above-named dealer. I don't recall anyone mentioning their experience with it and would appreciate comments (good, bad, indifferent).

    Thanks

    Steve
  • raybearraybear Member Posts: 1,795
    They had a pretty good reputation when I was selling Subarus, I don't know if that's changed.
  • wheeldogwheeldog Member Posts: 39
    I did a search over at i-club.com on some of the local CT dealers a little while back. Suburban Sales department had quite a few negative comments. Ty, Mitchell, and Center Subaru all seemed either positive overall or not negative anyway. Can't believe everything you read, of course, but it will give you a little idea of how different dealers operate.
  • bookworm28bookworm28 Member Posts: 2
    I am looking for input about the buying and/or service department experiences that anyone has had at the following dealers:
    Bill Kolb Subaru, Rockland NY
    Rushneck Subaru, Tarrytown NY
    Rye Subaru, Rye NY
    Smith Cairns Subaru, Yonkers NY
    Your input will be greatly appreciated. Thanks
  • drewstersdrewsters Member Posts: 3
    Bookworm:

    I shopped at Rye Subaru, they are knowledgeable, but a little less negotiable as far as pricing is concerned. I bought at Stamford Subaru at 02 OB Bean for invoice. You might want to check them out, they are only 10 miles from Rye.
  • xanosxanos Member Posts: 7
    I work with Rye Subaru a lot and you did very well on your price.
  • stevesr0stevesr0 Member Posts: 24
    Thanks for the feedback about Suburban Subaru.

    I am interested in experiences with one other dealership, Pine Belt Subaru in Lakewood, NJ.

    Appreciate any info.

    Thanks in advance.

    Steve
  • blaneblane Member Posts: 2,017
    bookworm:

    Bill Kolb's Subaru's service is fine. Had bought elsewhere, before they became a Subaru dealer, so I can't vouch for buying there.

    I had bought a used Mystique from Bill Kolb Ford a few years ago and was very pleased with the price and service.
  • stevesr0stevesr0 Member Posts: 24
    I went to look at the car they had and it really looked good and was as advertised (red WRX). I ended up buying after test drive. The price was very good and they took a credit card for the entire amount (usually I have been told that they will only allow $2500 to be charged for purchases).

    So my initial impression is very good.

    Steve
  • green_obgreen_ob Member Posts: 10
    I just bought a new Timberline Green base Outback w/ the all weather package from Bianco Subaru in Corte Madre, CA.

    No trade. No dealer financing.

    22,512.00 (invoice: AWP + air filter; no ad fee)
    150.00
    5.00 CA tire charge
    45.00 doc fee
    194.00 license
    1873.33 tax

    $24779.33 out the door

    Very painless buying experience. They first offered about $450 over invoice, then came down to $250 over. I offered $100 over and they countered at $150. Sold !!

    I was also looking very closely at a Wintergreen Legacy L wagon but went for the OB in the end.

    Edmunds and this forum really helped me make an informed buying decision.

    I'll be seeing more of you guys ...

    chris
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    Congrats, Chris. Tell us all about it during the Thursday eve chat, I'd love to hear more. What tranny did you get?

    -juice
  • miliscmilisc Member Posts: 2
    Hi, everyone. I have been reading the Subaru boards for the last few months and finally decided to jump in. This is such a great community and wonderful resource!

    Today my husband and I went to our local Subaru dealership to look at a WRX wagon and weigh it against the Forester. We quickly ascertained that the WRX was regretfully too small. I told the salesman that we were not interested in buying the 2002 Forester, and that we wished to wait for the 2003 before making any decision regarding a purchase.

    Well, he became a bit grumpy and quite aggressive as he wanted to know why we wanted the 2003. When I mentioned the improvements of the 2003, he denied them all. Oh boy. He told us that the only difference was a "slightly different body styling". He then asked us repeatedly why we weren't going to buy one of his Foresters TODAY. I was taken aback. When we left we felt kind of angry. Why give so much money to people that treat you so poorly?

    Is this the kind of hoopla all dealers put customers through? This is our first new car and this kind of treatment really left a bad taste in my mouth. Does anyone have any good or bad experiences with Glanzmann Subaru in Jenkintown, PA? The salesman was an older fellow-- is he a relic or indicative of what we can expect? How about any pearls of wisdom in general to share? My husband isn't really into the new car buying experience, so I will be handling the whole transaction pretty much by myself. Are there any women out there that have any helpful hints to shape up patronizing sales people? We won't be buying the car until mid to late summer, so any sage advise would be tremendously appreciated. Thanks!
  • jfljfl Member Posts: 1,399
    Melissa,
    Sorry to hear you had such a bad experience. A few things to remember: 1) It's YOUR money and you don't have to spend it where you don't want to. 2) After looking and test driving cars, I checked the subaru web site for dealer email addresses and sent out emails to dealers in the area specifying exactly what I wanted. All they had to do was email me back for a chance at my business. Don't leave a phone number or they'll call and harass you. With the numbers, you can then look at the car and make your final decision.
    Good luck.
  • bluesubiebluesubie Member Posts: 3,497
    Melissa,

    I would recommend calling Flemington Subaru in Flemington, NJ. Call 908-782-2025 and ask for Alex Leist. Tell him that "bluesubie" sent you. You could also email him at Flemingtonsubaru@aol.com.
    I started going there for service about a year ago and I'm really impressed. I haven't actually purchased a car from them yet, but will when I'm ready. I've test driven the WRX 4 times and they know that I'll most likely wait for the 03's.

    -Dennis
  • p0926p0926 Member Posts: 4,423
    Melissa- Welcome aboard and no, not every dealership treats their customers like that (although far too many do).

    Just for your information, the salesman's motives were to sell a Forester from the existing inventory of 2002s (which will become harder the closer we approach the debut of the 2003) and to sell you a car that day. Statistics show that something like 70% of all car buyers buy at the first dealership they visit with few returning later to make a purchase. Still, there's no excuse for that type of behavior. Kudos to you for standing your ground and not letting him bully you into a purchase (many shoppers would have caved under the constant pressure).

    I'm not sure how far you are from the nearest Fitzgerald Auto Mall (fitzmall.com) but from what I've heard and read, they offer an excellent selection, some of the lowest prices and a no-hassle buying experience. Best of luck and let us know how things turn out.

    -Frank P.
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    Try a no-haggle dealer like fitzmall.com, or use a service like Coscto offers. Credit Unions have them too. The price is fixed and you can focus on picking the vehicle you want, instead of haggling with a pro who does it for a living.

    -juice
  • cptpltcptplt Member Posts: 1,075
    what are people paying? I'm interested in a MT WRX wagon, Edmunds TMV suggests about $900 over invoice for bare car (no options)
  • kenskens Member Posts: 5,869
    Melissa,

    Salespeople that act like they deserve to get your business right there and then piss me off too. Good for you to walk out.

    If you hear any info from a salesperson that sounds fishy, check back with the Crew.

    Ken
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    I think $900 over is a little high. $500 or so seems more common nowadays.

    -juice
  • bluesunlionbluesunlion Member Posts: 38
    Melissa, This might not have worked with that salesman, but 1)I always make sure that the salesman knows up front that "I am not buying a car today." That way he/she doesn't have a chance to think that I'm their cash cow for that week.
    2) Your case (in wanting a car that is not available yet) makes this a little difficult, but since you aren't buying till later, get all the pricing information you can, like the Invoice price and True Market Value. Edmunds is a great source for this information, but try several sites just to look for any variances. Work out what you are willing to pay for the vehicle and options, and if you have a trade in, make sure you know what it is worth and the lowest amount you will take for it. Do your research! I like to have everything worked out, including what i am willing to pay for payment, or have the financing already arranged. Walk in with all the figures and printouts, it really gives you the upper hand.
    3) Like some of the guys mentioned above, If you ever get in a high pressure situation, leave. There are certainly other dealerships that are glad to make you comfortable and take your money.
    Hope this ramble helps!
    -Rachel
  • raybearraybear Member Posts: 1,795
    Inventories have been tightening up lately. $500 used to be the benchmark, but a lot of dealers are looking for more these days.
  • p0926p0926 Member Posts: 4,423
  • stevesr0stevesr0 Member Posts: 24
    Having recently purchased a Subaru, I offer the following -

    The takehome message for me was figure out what you want first (several test drives), then see what a low or minimum price might be (van Bortel has a build a car tool on its site which does this) and use such a figure in negotiating a price with other dealers.
    Consider, quick telephone screening of dealers before going to see a vehicle (see details below).
    -------------------------------------------
    Two questions to consider-

    (1) How important is the lowest price? Would you travel 100 miles or more to buy the vehicle for $ less in price?

    I started at the closest dealership (Morristown, NJ) but was unhappy that the salesman didn't offer any discount below MSRP. Then, I went to another dealer a little further away (Flemington Subaru) who was pleasant and offered a price about $6-800 below MSRP. Then I started reading this board and learned about Fitzgerald and van Bortel who are considered low-priced, reliable internet dealers. After comparing their respective prices, I ordered a car from van Bortel (~400 miles away, ~$200 over invoice=~1000 less than Flemington), planning to stop there after a business meeting and drive it home. Because they couldn't get the color I wanted, I took a hard look at the web sites listed in NJ, PA, CT and found one dealer (Pine Belt Subaru) ~60 miles away with that color. I called them and asked them to match van Bortel's price in the model they had and they did. So I went there and bought the car the next day. Incidentally, the car had about $800-1000 of options and as I calculated it was $800 LESS than invoice.

    ALL the dealers I dealt with were pleasant. Flemington has a reputation for good service and I am planning to use them.

    (2) Do you plan to buy from a dealer so that they will agree to provide regular service on a long-term basis?

    (This doesn't make sense to me because...)

    The dealer makes money (generally) on every new car sale (even if indirectly, say from holdback). Additionally, they make money from resale of tradein. Finally, they make money from servicing cars.

    So, there is no reason to feel they are doing you a favor by being available to take your old vehicle off your hands and servicing the car they sell you.

    Hope that is helpful.

    Steve
  • miliscmilisc Member Posts: 2
    Wow, thank you everyone for such great information and advice. I don't mind driving a bit to purchase the car. That might even make the experience more exciting-- think of the anticipation!

    I think that I might try getting quotes via e-mail and perhaps even with the phone after test driving the 2003 Forester and deciding on the model, etc. I'm not trading my current car in-- it's a 1990 Integra with 170,000 miles on it and I think it's worth a great more to me (I do love this car) than it would be to the dealer.

    I was wondering if I might run into any problems bringing a car into a local dealership that wasn't purchased there. I know that they aren't supposed to be jerky about it but I picture this very sincere service manager saying, " I've never seen anything like this before, your whatchamacallit broke and it's not covered..."

    Anyhow, I was so surprised by the salesguy being a poop because the people that I've met that own Subarus are so incredibly nice. :-)

    -- Melissa
  • p0926p0926 Member Posts: 4,423
    Melissa- Getting quotes is a good idea. Also, in case you didn't know, virtually all Subaru dealers list their current inventory online so you can go virtual shopping for a model equipped to your exact specifications (go to www.subaru.com and enter your zip code under the "Find a dealer" option). While most of the dealers will only list the MSRP, high volume dealers such as Fitzgerald list their best price on the internet so that's a good way to find out approximately what you should pay.

    I wouldn't hesitate to take my Subaru to a dealer other than the one from which I purchased it. Dealerships actually make a good portion of their profit off the service department so they should certainly welcome the business.

    -Frank P.
  • bluesubiebluesubie Member Posts: 3,497
    Find the one you like and stick with it. I finally settled on my fifth different dealer. Like Frank said, another dealer will definitely welcome your business.

    -Dennis
  • freddi1freddi1 Member Posts: 14
    Hi everyone...Thanks for all the info. I've been off site a while, but...we did find a 99 OB SW, 30th edition, LTD, loaded, 30k for $17,900. It's a beautiful car, but on my first highway trip I noticed a shimmy at 62 mph. and even after the dealer balanced the wheels, it's still there. I've posted on 2 other Suby chats for suggestions. Any from all you helpful people?
  • bluesubiebluesubie Member Posts: 3,497
    Congrats on the find. My wife has the same car and it also had a shake.

    Our dealer found that the front axles were out of spec (from the factory, IIRC). I'm not sure of the cost since it was covered under the Powertrain Warranty.

    -Dennis
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    Freddi: I'd ask them to inspect the wheel hubs and bearings.

    -juice
  • subypowersubypower Member Posts: 50
    Take it to a mechanic and make sure it hasn't been hit or in an accident. You can usually tell by gently rubbing your fingers along the seams of the car. If the paint is very smooth everything is ok. If the paint is rough chances are it has been hit. Good luck.
  • tellme2tellme2 Member Posts: 2
    Any dealers in the new york city - long island area for best prices and service -thanks
  • paisanpaisan Member Posts: 21,181
    Contact Mark J. @ Staten Island Subaru/Isuzu. Tell him I sent you and he'll do good by you. He's there T-Sat. 718-979-9595

    -mike
  • rileyyhrileyyh Member Posts: 49
    Hey guys. I wanted to know what you think about $500 over invoice for a 2002 WRX. Thanks.

    riley
  • raybearraybear Member Posts: 1,795
    That's at the low end of what I'm seeing.

    Watch out for doc fees.
  • hounddog69hounddog69 Member Posts: 34
    Is this a good deal? There are no options, all standard equipment.
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