Tips on Buying Cars: 2009 HONDA FIT Automatic, honda fit, honda dealers

Question
Hi
I am trying to get the DEALER COST for a 2009 Automatic Honda Fit/basic model in the Long Island NY area zip code 11701.

All I seem to get is the MSRP such as shown below and I know there must be a website where I can get the actual dealer cost.


    ... It was a pleasure speaking with you earlier.
I spoke to my manager, this is the best  price  we  can    make for you:

Disclosure
Car
Selling Price
15,620
Destination
670
Total Taxable
16,290
State Tax 8.62
1,404.20
NJ Tire Tax
7.50
D. Motor Vehicles &         on line process
242.30
Documentary
349
Grand Total
18,293.00


I think I should be able to do better than that price quote. Can you help?
Thank you
Olivia

Answer
The Honda Fit is a great car (highest-rated in its class), and it really is a good buy for the money right at the sticker price.  I know no American consumer ever wants to hear that, but that's the way it is, and every Honda dealer knows it.  I've checked all over the U.S., and the best price I found is sticker (some areas are getting $500-$1000 OVER sticker).  But, if you REALLY feel you need to do better, I'd suggest you prepare a bid offer and fax or e-mail it to as many Honda dealers that you'd be willing to drive to make your purchase.  You can ask for their best price ("I'll be purchasing this exact car within 48 hours from whichever dealer gives me the lowest price.."), or make an offer upfront ("I'd be willing to purchase this car for X amount of dollars within 24 hours and will deliver a cashier's check for $1,000 as deposit to purchase...").  If someone bites and is willing to sell it for less, great.  If not, and EVERY single dealer you contact comes back at the price you already have, then you know you've obtained the best price possible.  Whether or not that price is sticker at this point is irrelevant; if you have to have a Honda Fit today, then that's the price the market says you'll have to pay.