Negotiation on new cars
#1
Negotiation on new cars
Hi all,
So my mom ordered a new E and it just came in today. When she ordered it, the pricing wasn't established yet, so they have not yet agreed on a final price.
Now, with the limited supply of cars I know there probably isn't much room to negotiate on the price of new cars, but has anyone had any luck being able to negotiate anything?
When I got mine it was pre-Covid so a little different environment.
Thanks
So my mom ordered a new E and it just came in today. When she ordered it, the pricing wasn't established yet, so they have not yet agreed on a final price.
Now, with the limited supply of cars I know there probably isn't much room to negotiate on the price of new cars, but has anyone had any luck being able to negotiate anything?
When I got mine it was pre-Covid so a little different environment.
Thanks
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M. Schneider (10-21-2022)
#2
No discount on my CPO when I bought it a year ago and I tried a few dealers and they were all the same price wise. They will also sell you very hard at the back end of the deal too with things like the extended warranty or paid maintenance….among other things. The factories in Germany will go into a slow down soon because of the lack of energy, I would think the price of German cars will go up in the near future instead of down.
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Courthaven (10-19-2022)
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#8
My mom got a call saying hers is with the dealer so I am supposed to go with her tomorrow for pickup. That's all I know since as I said I got my car at the end of 2018, so haven't been following the processes today. I wonder if it helps that we live in Baltimore... So near a VPC
#10
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2016 C300 4Matic traded in for a 2022 E450 Coupe
#11
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From: Ohio
'16 C450, '21 Dad Wagon Pilot, '22 Wrangler 4xe
Anecdotally from what I can see for our dealership, every E350 we have at the VPC was shoved onto a truck yesterday and this morning. I haven't seen movement from 450s or 53s.
As to the OP's question, your mother shouldn't expect anything better than MSRP. If she backs out there is likely a line of buyers who will be there the same day to buy her car. E-Classes in all flavors have been in very short supply for almost 2 years now.
As to the OP's question, your mother shouldn't expect anything better than MSRP. If she backs out there is likely a line of buyers who will be there the same day to buy her car. E-Classes in all flavors have been in very short supply for almost 2 years now.
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Courthaven (10-20-2022)
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sgawiser (10-20-2022)
#13
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From: Dallas-Ft.Worth,TX
2016 E350 Sport
Negotiation (on price) is five-syllable term not in the vocabulary of most Mercedes-Benz Dealers. Most dealer personnel know only 3 and 4 syllable words.
I had to swallow my pride 22 years ago to buy my first MB, as I had always gotten "deals" on all my previous car purchases. If mom wants a deal on a Mercedes, she should wait for a car coming off lease in 2-3 years. Given the high depreciation rates of all German cars, she will get her "deal" on a half-price car at that time.
Besides, even the wealthiest people nowadays rent (lease) their new Mercedes-Benzes, rather than buy them outright. I did buy outright years ago, but I was one among the few, and I came to feel like a fool for doing so. I've paid cash for my current E-Class, but that was to acquire a lease-return from a dealer who got it from an auction by MB Financial. And even then, I paid the dealer's asking price (heavily discounted as it was).
I had to swallow my pride 22 years ago to buy my first MB, as I had always gotten "deals" on all my previous car purchases. If mom wants a deal on a Mercedes, she should wait for a car coming off lease in 2-3 years. Given the high depreciation rates of all German cars, she will get her "deal" on a half-price car at that time.
Besides, even the wealthiest people nowadays rent (lease) their new Mercedes-Benzes, rather than buy them outright. I did buy outright years ago, but I was one among the few, and I came to feel like a fool for doing so. I've paid cash for my current E-Class, but that was to acquire a lease-return from a dealer who got it from an auction by MB Financial. And even then, I paid the dealer's asking price (heavily discounted as it was).
#14
Negotiation (on price) is five-syllable term not in the vocabulary of most Mercedes-Benz Dealers. Most dealer personnel know only 3 and 4 syllable words.
I had to swallow my pride 22 years ago to buy my first MB, as I had always gotten "deals" on all my previous car purchases. If mom wants a deal on a Mercedes, she should wait for a car coming off lease in 2-3 years. Given the high depreciation rates of all German cars, she will get her "deal" on a half-price car at that time.
Besides, even the wealthiest people nowadays rent (lease) their new Mercedes-Benzes, rather than buy them outright. I did buy outright years ago, but I was one among the few, and I came to feel like a fool for doing so. I've paid cash for my current E-Class, but that was to acquire a lease-return from a dealer who got it from an auction by MB Financial. And even then, I paid the dealer's asking price (heavily discounted as it was).
I had to swallow my pride 22 years ago to buy my first MB, as I had always gotten "deals" on all my previous car purchases. If mom wants a deal on a Mercedes, she should wait for a car coming off lease in 2-3 years. Given the high depreciation rates of all German cars, she will get her "deal" on a half-price car at that time.
Besides, even the wealthiest people nowadays rent (lease) their new Mercedes-Benzes, rather than buy them outright. I did buy outright years ago, but I was one among the few, and I came to feel like a fool for doing so. I've paid cash for my current E-Class, but that was to acquire a lease-return from a dealer who got it from an auction by MB Financial. And even then, I paid the dealer's asking price (heavily discounted as it was).
#15
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2016 E350 Sport
Yeah, I figured chances were slim. Since she ordered it months ago and has been waiting there is no chance she's going to go for a pre-owned. She is just going to have to take it at MSRP. In 2006, she bought a brand new S500 and she sadly thinks they will be nice to her because of that, but I doubt it, lol.
#16
Negotiation (on price) is five-syllable term not in the vocabulary of most Mercedes-Benz Dealers. Most dealer personnel know only 3 and 4 syllable words.
I had to swallow my pride 22 years ago to buy my first MB, as I had always gotten "deals" on all my previous car purchases. If mom wants a deal on a Mercedes, she should wait for a car coming off lease in 2-3 years. Given the high depreciation rates of all German cars, she will get her "deal" on a half-price car at that time.
Besides, even the wealthiest people nowadays rent (lease) their new Mercedes-Benzes, rather than buy them outright. I did buy outright years ago, but I was one among the few, and I came to feel like a fool for doing so. I've paid cash for my current E-Class, but that was to acquire a lease-return from a dealer who got it from an auction by MB Financial. And even then, I paid the dealer's asking price (heavily discounted as it was).
I had to swallow my pride 22 years ago to buy my first MB, as I had always gotten "deals" on all my previous car purchases. If mom wants a deal on a Mercedes, she should wait for a car coming off lease in 2-3 years. Given the high depreciation rates of all German cars, she will get her "deal" on a half-price car at that time.
Besides, even the wealthiest people nowadays rent (lease) their new Mercedes-Benzes, rather than buy them outright. I did buy outright years ago, but I was one among the few, and I came to feel like a fool for doing so. I've paid cash for my current E-Class, but that was to acquire a lease-return from a dealer who got it from an auction by MB Financial. And even then, I paid the dealer's asking price (heavily discounted as it was).
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M. Schneider (10-21-2022)
#17
Don't worry, I bought mine too instead of leasing for the same reason.
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#18
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From: Dallas-Ft.Worth,TX
2016 E350 Sport
The difference is I patiently waited two years and bought a $68,000 E-Class with only 17,000 miles for $8,000 less than the list price I paid for the new C-Class.
Last edited by DFWdude; 10-21-2022 at 01:12 PM.
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#19
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From: Long Island, NY
2019 E 450, 2016 E350 4matic (retired), 2018 Ford Edge Sport, 2008 Porsche Boxster
What I would be concerned with is that by 2030, 7 years, Mercedes will have ceased production of ICE cars - everything will be electric.
No one knows how that will reflect the resale prices of ICE cars.
With such uncertainty, a lease will protect you, albeit with an interest expense. On the other hand use of money today must be figured in at a minimum of 5%. So if the money factor (interest rate) is below 5%, I think the better move is to lease. At the end of 36/48 months, if the market for ICE cars has collapsed, a real possibility you are protected. If the market continues the way it has since Covid, you can just buy your car at the end of lease, as I did.
I do not see the downside of leasing. Preserving capital in uncertain times has real value and when possible should be done.
Hope this helps.
#20
^ I am a proponent of leasing, but have zero concern about loss of value in the near term (5-10 years) due to ICE production ending. Eliminating supply does not eliminate demand; simple economics. With EV adoption in the US predicted to be 20-50% by 2030, Mercedes will effectively be surrendering up to 50% of potential new car sales by eliminating ICEs. Either Mercedes continues to sell ICEs beyond 2030 (note that in their press release on the subject, they leave this option open), or many of those 50% will look to a used/CPO Mercedes as an alternative, keeping resale value strong.
Last edited by Alan Smithee; 10-21-2022 at 01:59 PM.
#21
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From: Long Island, NY
2019 E 450, 2016 E350 4matic (retired), 2018 Ford Edge Sport, 2008 Porsche Boxster
^ I am a proponent of leasing, but have zero concern about loss of value in the near term (5-10 years) due to ICE production ending. Eliminating supply does not eliminate demand; simple economics. With EV adoption in the US predicted to be 20-50% by 2030, Mercedes will effectively be surrendering up to 50% of potential new car sales by eliminating ICEs. Either Mercedes continues to sell ICEs beyond 2030 (note that in their press release on the subject, they leave this option open), or many of those 50% will look to a used/CPO Mercedes as an alternative, keeping resale value strong.
As I understand Mercedes, and all other manufacturers, they intend to convert their production of ICE to EV: Mercedes, Ford, etc. does not contemplate a reduction in the number of units produced but rather switching from ICE to EV.
As to your statement:
"have zero concern about loss of value in the near term (5-10 years) due to ICE production ending"
That reminds of the story about the investor who in market turmoil says "he is not concerned as he is in the market for the long haul."When translated into English, that means his portfolio is down 50% and he has no choice but to remain and hope that his positions recover - and hope is not an effective financial strategy.
In all due respect, I cannot imagine anyone who would have "no concern" about their the value of their car dropping by over 50% in 2 to 3 years. We are talking about a $75,000/80,000 investment in a car. I do not care how much money you have or how wealthy you are, no one wants to see their investment worth half in a few short years.
Addendum:
By 2030:
Ford 50% EV
GM 100% EV
VW 55%
BMW 50%
Volvo 100%
Honda 40% to 50%
Toyota 50%
Mazda 25%
Mercedes 100%
This can be verified by Googling "What percent (fill in manufacturers name) will be electric by 2030.
Last edited by JTK44; 10-21-2022 at 02:29 PM.
#22
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From: Vail, Colorado 8,235ft Elevation
1994 E-Class 320 Coupe, 1998 911 Carrera S (993)
Buy and hold for; 8 to 10 years
Roweraay,
We're of a similar practice when it comes to autos. Execute the auto purchase as efficiently as possible which is often Paid in Full. .. And hold for 8 to 10 yrs or better. . Paid in Full is one of many time-honored purchase practices. . Autos are more an expenditure and less an investment... My .02 cents
A member of the Hurry Up & Wait Game. .. On order since June '22 a 2023 E450S4 All-Terrain USA. .... Selenite / Beige Nappa
We're of a similar practice when it comes to autos. Execute the auto purchase as efficiently as possible which is often Paid in Full. .. And hold for 8 to 10 yrs or better. . Paid in Full is one of many time-honored purchase practices. . Autos are more an expenditure and less an investment... My .02 cents
A member of the Hurry Up & Wait Game. .. On order since June '22 a 2023 E450S4 All-Terrain USA. .... Selenite / Beige Nappa
Last edited by M. Schneider; 10-21-2022 at 03:50 PM.
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Roweraay (10-21-2022)
#23
First of all, the cars we are talking about are not investments. You and I lease, which means we fully expect they will depreciate roughly 50% in 3-4 years (54% RV for my All Terrain); in fact we are paying for exactly that, plus interest. So, no, not investments.
I will try to clarify: Mercedes can try to "switch" from ICE to EV by 2030 without "reduction in the number of units", but if ICEs represent 50% of US car sales in 2030, and Mercedes only sells EVs, it will have effectively cut themselves off from half of the new car buying public.
I will try to clarify: Mercedes can try to "switch" from ICE to EV by 2030 without "reduction in the number of units", but if ICEs represent 50% of US car sales in 2030, and Mercedes only sells EVs, it will have effectively cut themselves off from half of the new car buying public.
Last edited by Alan Smithee; 10-21-2022 at 02:40 PM.
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#24
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2019 E 450, 2016 E350 4matic (retired), 2018 Ford Edge Sport, 2008 Porsche Boxster
First of all, the cars we are talking about are not investments. You and I lease, which means we fully expect they will depreciate roughly 50% in 4 years (54% RV for my All Terrain); in fact we are paying for exactly that, plus interest. So, no, not investments.
I will try to clarify: Mercedes can try to "switch" from ICE to EV by 2030 without "reduction in the number of units", but if ICEs represent 50% of US car sales in 2030, and Mercedes only sells EVs, it will have effectively cut themselves off from half of the new car buying public.
I will try to clarify: Mercedes can try to "switch" from ICE to EV by 2030 without "reduction in the number of units", but if ICEs represent 50% of US car sales in 2030, and Mercedes only sells EVs, it will have effectively cut themselves off from half of the new car buying public.
Where you and I disagree, and maybe not, is that I believe regardless of present intentions to be 50% to 100% EV's by 2030, , no manufacturer will sacrifice production to only produce EV's. The number of units produced will be either all EV's or a combination of EV's and ICE to achieve pre Covid levels.
Because I consider a $75,000/80,000 car an investment, I lease (as you do) to limit by loss. This is risk management which I use in all my investments - cars included. Again we may be saying the same thing.
I had a similar situation with the Ford MachE: I placed my order early for a First Edition. I have been leasing Ford Edge's for several years and Ford leases were extremely aggressive - favorable to the lessee. When it came time to take delivery for my FE, Ford did not offer a lease, only financing, thus shifting the burden of depreciation onto the buyer. Not knowing either the reliability of the MachE or what other competitors would be offering in 2/3 years, I decided to not take delivery.
Turned out, for many reasons but primarily the chip shortage, I made a mistake in not taking possession and just buying it outright. However, if I had to do it all over again, I again would not take possession on an unknown car in the first year of production. But that is me: I always try to manage risk.
Last edited by JTK44; 10-21-2022 at 03:16 PM.
#25
Where you and I disagree, and maybe not, is that I believe regardless of present intentions to be 50% to 100% EV's by 2030, , no manufacturer will sacrifice production to only produce EV's. The number of units produced will be either all EV's or a combination of EV's and ICE to achieve pre Covid levels.
Not to mention strong new players like Rivian, Lucid, Apple, etc.
Again, the most optimistic predictions are for only half of US new car sales to be electric in 2030. These manufacturers can't all maintain or increase sales volume from pre-COVID levels and sell 100% EVs in 2030. The numbers just do not work.
To bring this back on topic, it is my opinion that, with all of the aforementioned premium car manufacturers committed to a 100% EVs by 2030, and maybe half of the new car buying public buying EVs by 2030, there will be a very strong market for used ICE luxury vehicles in the near term.