Shopping for a New Vehicle.

[KarenS144]

I'm negotiating on a new Escape with plans to use it as a toad. I've talked to a couple of different salesmen at different dealers and have what I think are some good prices. I asked about extra fees and have gotten different answers so I thought I'd throw this out here in the hopes that someone can explain.

I have an X plan which I was told at one dealer will save me "dealer fees" of about $600 but I have no idea what the "dealer fees" are for. I was told by another salesman there would be a title charge and something else that would total less than $200. This is in addition to the fleecing courtesy of the tax collector!

I mentioned dealer fees to another salesman and he acted like he had no clue what I was talking about. Another salesman said there is something called an "etching" insurance cost of $120 and that it would pay $2500 if the car was stolen and could not be recovered. This would be in addition to the regular insurance. It would also pay up to a $1000 for deductibles and would give me a discount for the regular insurance.

I know the dealers/salesmen play all sorts of games but this "etching insurance" was new to me. From Googling, I think it's etching the VIN number into the windshield which is supposed to be a theft deterrent.

For those that have purchased new vehicles recently, have you been charged for "etching" and did your insurance give you a discount?

I wonder if it would apply to the MH if the VIN was etched in the windshield?

I'm thinking it's just another way for the dealer to get sneak a few more bucks into the deal.

[tncruiser]

as i understand it dealer can not add processing fees on x plan
etching discount would be up to your ins co if they want to give you a discount
never buy anything extra from the dealer it is usually a rip off
ask for a closing statement before you sign if you dont understand it take it to a lawyer
if dealer gives you any flack about an attorney revue run forest run
i have purchase car/truck on x plan and chrysler employee plan and always refused the add ons i can wax and fabric guard my own car
there was a time when your ins co would etch glass for you at no charge
now most body panels have the vin on them when they leave the factory
brianj