The latest test brings that service directly to consumers who may visit the manufacturer's site for information before buying a car, the company said. It expanded the service to other states in recent months and expects to make it available nationwide by the end of the first quarter. They then have the option to name their own price and payment method. Customers receive a response to their offer in one business day. If a dealer can't accept the offer, or if they have the car available in a different color than they one desired, they can electronically submit a counter-offer.
Customers complete the sale through the dealership.
More and more people are using the Internet to help them buy a car, which is typically the second-largest purchase a household makes, Keller said.