Looking at a new car myself. Same make/model as I presently own, I've had
three in the series. The service department at the dealer is stellar, and I get every single recommended service done through them (which is good long-term cash flow for the dealer), but jeesh the sales side is a pain.
I use their contact form to list the configuration I'm looking for, the option mix, let them known where I'm flexible, ask for the best price available (and note that I've done my homework, let them know that I work off Edmunds True Market Value), and to please do contacts by e-mail. The Internet sales associate comes back trying to get me to test drive one, I let her know that I've owned three, just had a 2012 loaner last Friday when I was getting a regular service, reiterate to use e-mail. Several days of silence, then she calls me again, plus there were multiple calls to home. I reiterate use email, that I know the car and options, know the reasonable price, need them to confirm. Last night I get another call, from the sales head I had seen last Friday when I picked up my car. She's trying to get me in to evaluate my car for trade, I explain once again that their offer price is a separate number from the trade part of the transaction -- they need to hit a fair price, and then separately an honest trade value (I know the car's condition, maintenance history, reasonable market value).
I'm pretty intelligent, I speak well, I can usually get what I want in working with people professionally, but in my private life I loathe negotiating. I find what I want to
buy, research reasonable price, will walk (have done so) if someone makes a stupid offer, but I always let a salesperson get one free warning that that is how I am. The car make is one where the dealers are supposed to play well, they're salary not commission, and armed with knowledge on fair market price (and average time their products are sitting on the lot) it should be a no brainer.
Excellent service department, but consistently "special" sales people
