Tips on Buying Cars: Transfer from one state to another, 2007 toyota tundra, factory incentives

Question
I've been shopping for a new 2007 Toyota Tundra, and I am so surprised to see the varying pricing between dealers from California and other states.  Granted, I know the sales taxes are different among other fees, but just going by sticker prices, I've seen some dealers be thousands less than ones here in California.  Would it be advantagous of me to buy out of state and have it shipped to a local dealer? I've heard this can be done, and I would then pay the California taxes on the purchase price once I register the title.  I'm trying to save as much money as possible, and no dealers locally want to honor such low price quotes.  Don't they all pay the same for these vehicles?  What should I do to get the best priced deal?

Thanks.

Answer
Hello Jeff,

Please forgive me for not getting back to you in a timely manner. Being in the car business, the end of the month is extremely busy...which is a good thing. Now to your question...

Yes, you're exactly correct...all dealers do pay the same for vehicles. Although, different regions may have different factory incentives. The factory incentives are generally used when a customer is playing hardball and is pushing for a better deal.

Taxes are taxes and make sure you do not pay state taxes twice in a deal. If you're paying cash for a vehicle, you will pay the taxes (as you already know) when you title the vehicle in your home state.

I doubt if very seriously if you can purchase a vehicle from another dealer and have it shipped for delivery at a local dealer. This is normally a dealer exchange/trade and is usually initiated by the local dealer. That being the case, the factory incentives will still be controlled by which region or state you take delivery and title your vehicle.

I would recommend to do some of your shopping over the Internet with a couple of dealers within a 25-50 mile radius. You will find that being an Internet shopper, you will have more control of getting the best price. Each dealer will do their best to encourage you to do business with them and will promise you the best price and if you can, get some quotes and ask if they're willing to honor a written quote from another store. I would also remind them that they are closer and more convenient and you would like to bring your vehicle to their service department for maintenance and repairs.

I hope this helps Jeff!

Good luck!

Doug