Went to the BMW of Manhattan looking for the M340i today given that I live very close to the dealership. As I meet the dealer, I tell him that I’d like to look at details, sign the paperwork, and then pick up the car this week or next.
Came into the dealership and was told the guy I had an appointment with was missing and had to get another guy. We had confirmed m340i over email and he said there were no models available in the showroom. I ask to see if I can see the interior of the 330i just to see what it would look like. “Why? It’s just a car. They’re all the same”. I should have picked up and left right here but still wanted to entertain to see if he had a better deal.
We go back to his desk and he begins pricing. 61095 MSRP car and he gives a 5.3% discount. I see him using the calculator on his iPhone to try and figure out the percentage. I tell him I’m looking for something in the 11-12% off MSRP range to try and get him to counter at 10%. He says there’s no way he can’t do it and asks where I got my numbers. I tell him the surrounding BMW dealerships in the area. He says, “nope can’t do it. Do you still want us to give you a call if we can do it? because we can’t.”
At this point, I just fold up my paper and leave the dealership. Did I just get a bad dealer? I’m 25 years and do look young so that may have been the reason but I didn’t even bother asking for a test drive.
Is it better if I just keep my mouth shut until he’s done running the numbers?
The comment you made about shopping other local dealers for your pricing…
That response would tell me it’s a lie.
Because if he asks for email proof, or gives you the ol’ “why didn’t you take those deals,” what’s your response?
Even as a broker people throw out numbers and tell me they get them from other dealers. It’s not uncommon when I ask for them in writing (helps leverage dealers) they stop responding.
“If that’s how you feel about the brand that puts food on your table, let’s go have a chat with a manager and see if we can’t relieve you of your burden”
Never ever go to a dealer in NYC! Coming from a New York City native, they are horrible! I would also suggest you hire a broker, or do a lot more reading on the forums before trying to complete a deal. I know theres a couple great brokers on here @nyclife that do bmw deals.
Idk when I went in to check a car last month my guy (Alain) was pretty nice and gave me a sub 400 deal on a 330i new without me pushing much. Walked me through the showroom, sent me the breakdown sheet, even let me know he had room to move but not much. Coulda just gotten a worse guy.
Some dealerships just aren’t mooch-friendly. Bummer that you emailed before and had an appointment set up with someone. An internet salesperson will treat you well but floor salespeople are notorious for blowing out internet ups.
Edit: I have floor salespeople I watch like a hawk if I run out of internet salespeople and have to turn an internet customer to floor sales. Some salespeople are just stuck in the 1990s.
