Also, consider whether the car has good outward visibility, and whether or not the gauges on the instrument panel are easy to read. Check out crash tests and accident data. Narrow your choices to several cars. Obtain updated price lists to compare dealer costs with prices listed on the window sticker. You will know how much bargaining room you have on the basic car and individual options.
Negotiations often have a vocabulary of their own.
Here are some terms you may hear when you're talking price. This usually is higher than the dealer's final cost because dealers receive rebates, allowances, discounts, and incentive awards. This price is printed on the Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price. Affixed to the car window, this sticker is required by federal law, and may be removed only by the purchaser. Get a firm quote, in writing, from the dealer.