OK, who works in auto sales? I'm negotiating my first Mini and want to counter the dealership's offer. Is it more likely (easier for the dealer) to take money off the vehicle or add freebies (mud flaps, chrome bonnet scoop, etc.) of the same $1,000 value? ASAP help would be greatly appreciated! All the best.

 

I don't work in sales, but w/ my car I told the dealer:
Give me another $500 off
or give me stripes installed

Guess what they took?

The install, of course. I expected it too. For them they just "lose" the money on the part, and the labor cost is amortized in the whole month...

So, if you want the freebies, indeed tell them you won't buy unless they drop price OR give freebies, and most likely you'll get the freebies.

If you actually want the reduced price, then only ask for the money and say that otherwise no deal.

 

If you want $1000 off ask for it, or $2000 or what ever it is that you want. If you want a freebie that is worth $1000 ask for something that option wise is $1250+ which will be closer to the money amount figuring the profit margin. All the dealer can say is no, then you can decide how much you want the car. As far as to which the dealer will prefer, price discount or freebie, it makes no difference. Money is money. From what I hear it's a good time to deal, sales are down and volume is needed, so ask away.

 

Thanks for the input. I ended up working a deal I'm happy about, although you always wonder, "Could I have gotten a little more?"

 

Yeah, it is always worrisome if they say *yes* too quickly!

 

On my 2010 Mayfair special order, they've taken 500 off MSRP, no 479.00 "administrative fee" and added the chrome bonnet scoop. This after telling me that there were no incentives on custom orders.

You just need to tell them what you want to pay and feel is fair. It's also helpful to deal with several dealers and let them all know you're talking to others. They want your business.

 

Congrats on your purhase. Don't worry - there is ALWAYS a better deal somewhere. I bought a new MCS convertible in June and a friend bought a JCW convertible in November and paid about the same price as I paid for my "lowly" S. But, I have had 7 months of motoring bliss!

Relax - the deal is done so ENJOY!!! Until this year it was almost unheard of to get a discount on a MINI.