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Great article and so true about the automobile dealership business. I still remember the "foursquare", and the "tower." But this is the first I heard about "credit roach" - which I assume is somebody with crappy credit who is searching for a low monthly payment.

Three tips for buying a new car:

Never finance through the dealership. Not even the 1.9% or 0% scams. Get your financing done ahead of time with your bank or credit union.

Don't take your trade-in to the dealership while negotiating for they will definitely find reasons to low ball you on the trade-in. Borrow your uncle's BMW or something. Or better yet, sell your old car on your own and use the proceeds to go towards your down payment.

Never negotiate on the monthly payment, or the down payment or the trade-in. Always focus on the price of the car.

Always be prepared to walk away. Never fall for the "what will it take for you to drive the car off the lot today" ploy.

Lastly, 99 Luftaballoons is a great slice of 1980s pop.

"Don't take your trade-in to the dealership while negotiating for they will definitely find reasons to low ball you on the trade-in."

That made me laugh, Sam.

My trade-in has a blue book value of $580.

Thanks for the info, though.