Tips on Buying Cars: buying out of state, jeremy beck, saab dealer

Question
Hi Jeremy,
I'm wanting to snag a new 2007 Saab before they're all gone.  Most dealers, including my local dealer with whom I purchased a Saab previously, are now only selling 2008 models.  I've managed to locate a few 2007 Saabs at dealers in various parts of the country - all at least 1000 miles from me.  Is it reasonable, or not at all, to ask my local Saab dealer to get me one of the 2007 Saabs I've located from a remote dealer and then purchase it from him (local dealer)? If so, will I end up paying for the costs involved in transporting the car as part of the final price? If so, would it be better to purchase the car directly from a remote Saab dealer and arrange and pay for the shipping myself?  Thanks for your help!
Rob

Answer
Rob,

Thanks for your question, and sorry for the long delay in answering it.  It is very reasonable to ask your local Saab dealer to locate the vehicle.  They will want to sell you the vehicle, so they should be willing to locate it for you.  Now, as you said, you will be responsible for any and all freight charges on the vehicle, and explain that to them up front, so they understand that you are being reasonable.  As for purchasing the vehicle from the dealer that has it, it really doesn't matter either way, because that dealer will charge you the freight as well.  I would almost think it better to buy from a dealer that is close to you so if you have any problems, it isn't impossible for you to get them dealt with.  There is also a comfort factor with them, if you have already purchased from them before.  

I hope this answers your question, and again, I am sorry it took so long to get you this answer.  

If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact me again, I promise it won't take as long.  

Thanks -

Jeremy Beck