I just got a quote on an RX8 with just the GT package for $27469 which I was really excited about because, according to my sources, that is somewhere around $400 below invoice. I noticed the internet sales manager had added "+ taxes and fees" after the price though. I called the internet sales manager and asked about the "fees" and he told me that there is a $499 "processing fee". Should I try to negotiate this fee down or is this a normal charge. I realize that the car is still just $100 above invoice with the fee added, but I just don't like the idea of paying a processing fee. I would appreciate some advice on this one as I may be making my deal tomorrow.

 

The "processing" fee is BS. There is the invoice price of the car, which should include the $520 destination charge (explicitly ask them if it does). There are DMV registration and titling fees, which they have to break out and are non-negotiable, as Mazda does not get any profit on. The contract explicitly states these fees line, by line. Of course sales tax is sales tax.

 

I do know that the $520 destination charge is included in that price. So you think that I should try my best to negotiate the $499 away then?

 

It depends on whether or not you can find a car for less than $27,968. If you don't think you can (and I don't think you can very easily), then jump on it. If you want to argue, do it. The fee is BS and pure profit for the dealer, you don't *have to* pay it. But the price is still very good.

-arattle

 

Well, I haven't been able to find anybody yet that could get close to $27,968, but I guess I just wish that the manager had told me that I could have the car for $100 over invoice and not called it a processing fee to get it back to $100 over.

 

i think that's a great deal. nothing to be scared of.