Tips on Buying Cars: A good deal on a Toyota Camry Solara?, toyota camry solara, rear defroster

Question
Hello,
I live in Needham, MA 02494 and am looking to maybe buy a new car.  I have a 2002 Sebring Convertible that has 35000 miles on it and I have had problems with the rear defroster that I have had fixed 6 times from 2 different dealerships.  I'm a little frustrated by now...
I'm considering buying a new 4 cylinder Honda or Toyota considering I will have a 35 mile commute each way starting next month, plus I'm frustrated with my current car.  I saw a 2004 Toyota Camry Solora tonight with a sticker of 21,800 that they said they would sell for 20,400 before I even said anything.  Also, Toyota has $500 rebate or 0% for 36 months financing.  A friend said she saw an article that said 0% financing may not be that great a deal since they won't go as low on price, do you know if that's true?  Also, if I were to buy this car, what negotiated price do you think would make it a good deal?  A man I know who used to sell cars said so long as you get 10-14% off sticker then you are doing well, is that true?  Should I put any money down if I do 0% financing?  They said they would give me a great trade in price since they also have a Chrysler dealership.  Thanks for any advice, Kevin.

Answer
Well first off, whoever told you 10 to 14 percent must have been in the business awhile ago, there just isn't that kind of markup. But he did at least get his point across that the discount they gave isn't much at all. I would highly reccomend looking at domestic cars right now. Not because thats what I sell but look at the rebate difference. A Ford Focus has close to $3,000.00 rebate. You might be able to save a nice chunk of money. I would also reccomend looking at Edmunds.com. There you can find sticker prices, invoice costs, and TMV true market value, which is what you should pay for the car. I hope this helps and please rate my answers.