How long should I wait to buy?

[skibama]

Hi guys, yet another new poster here. I've been lurking for a while now, as I hopefully will be buying a new 4runner in the near future. I've driven different Grand Cherokees since '94 and have pretty much had it with crappy Jeep quality. I love my jeep when it works, but it seems like it's in the shop half the time.

Anyway, I've always said that when Toyota came out with a V8, I'd buy one. Well, it's time to buy and i'm looking at a 2005 Sport with V8 & 4x4. My question is should I wait a few months until the 2006's come out and if so, how long? Typically do dealers give better deals the later the year goes on...say more discount in November vs. September? I've seen carsdirect.com with a price just under $29k and that seems to be what most internet sales are quoting me. Did anyone get a drive out price for under $30k with V8 & 4x4?

Sorry for all the questions, but you guys seem to very informative and helpful.
Thanks for the help!

 

[UoD]

I got a 2005 sport V8 (not 4wd) with upgraded audio, spoiler, mats, etc for $27500 a month ago. I think the 4wd is another $1500 or so more ... so, you should easily be able to get one for $29000ish


The 2006's are going to cost more ... and the dealers want to get rid of the 2005's now (so you will get better deals on them). If you want to save some cash, get an 05 within the next month or two.

 

[Bluto]

I bought January 2nd (last day of a Toyota Sale and Finance special). I think it was the first time discounts/rebates were available on the 05 V8.

The sale was 'end of the year' I think.

My final price was $300 under invoice, 2.9% financing. Before the sale, I was looking at $1500 over invoice and no 2.9% financing. Prices dropped in December, and there was a sale.

The market may be different this year. But you may have to wait until December for a good deal on an 06.



Do you want the Sport package with sunroof, or without? The sunroof adds JBL, DRL, cargo. About $1300 extra.

 

[skibama]

I really don't care about the sunroof and upgraded stereo. I'm probably going to put in an aftermarket stereo anyway. Really the only option I want is the Homelink system, so besides the 4wd and V8, I'm not looking for too many bells and whisles...it comes pretty loaded anyway.

So how much out the door did most people pay? Did you negotiate sales tax into your price? I'd love to stay under $30k including tax.

 

[skibama]

Do rebates usually show back up in September?

 

[olliebear]

Just keep in mind that

your selection of 05's may not be what you want if you wait too long, then the 06's will be out at higher price while you dither...

Don't forget that end of month is also their time to make the sales quotas too.

Near closing time is also a good time for the salesman to sign the last one up...as long as you are ready to sign up and stick to your guns a bit.

Bad weather rainy days are also good.....watch them stand around waiting for the clock to wind down.....see how desperate they are then...

 

[skibama]

Thanks for all the info.
Keep the tips coming! Anyone know what to expect for the next round of rebates?

 

[V8Limited4wd]

i say wait until the redesigned 4runners come out.

thats what i would do.

 

[Northof49]

If you want to save money, buy an 05 closer to the end of the year, although selection will be less.

If you want the newest thing with a few improvements and are willing the pay a bit more, buy the 06 when it comes out. If you want an 06 AND want to save money, you might have to wait for awhile after it debutes.

If you want one now, go buy it now and never look back

Nice thing is, there's no "wrong" answer, just preference. Personally, I like having the newest of the new, so I would pay a little more to have an 06 right when they come out. But, of course, there's nothing wrong with saving some money either.....your call.

 

[Northof49]

Re: Just keep in mind that

Near closing time is also a good time for the salesman to sign the last one up...as long as you are ready to sign up and stick to your guns a bit.

From a (former) carsalesman, please only do this if you are commited to buying. If you just want to test drive, chat and gather info, it is not very polite to take up the salesperson's personal time outside of business hours.

I know everyone hates "stealerships" around here, but they are just businesses afterall; as salespeople are just humans. By showing up right at close on a saturday night wishing to go through the entire process, but with no intention of purchasing (and many people do this), you are really demonstrating a lack of respect. If this is the only time you have available, phone or email ahead and make arrangements so you are guaranteed quality time with a salesperson.

Generally, getting off on the right foot will hopefully lead to a higher quality of customer service