Now Is Time to Deal on Chrysler Vehicles

Nearly 800 Chrysler dealerships will close their doors early next month. For consumers in the market for a new car or truck, chances for a true deal abound.

Dealers slated to close have just a few weeks to sell their remaining Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicles. And some of these dealerships are willing to sell their vehicles at or below cost before they shut their doors for good on June 9.

Dave Champion, director of automobile testing for Consumer Reports told USA Today: “You’ve got some very good negotiating power. (Dealers are) really looking to shift this inventory. It’s just stacking up all around them.”

So, if you’re in the market for a new vehicle, how do you take advantage of this potential opportunity?

1. Research the list of dealers that are closing. Identify the ones in your area and visit their dealership Web sites to learn of any potential deals. Keep in mind that not all closing Chrysler dealerships will have fire sales. Many of these dealerships are part of businesses that own multiple dealerships. As a result, these owners may elect to transfer some or all of their inventory rather than take a beating. Check your local newspaper and TV station Web sites for reports about your local Chrysler dealerships to learn more.
2. As with any car purchase, do your homework. You shouldn’t buy a car just because you can get a deal. Make sure you really need a new car and then research whether there is a Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep model that might suit your needs. Sites like Edmunds.com offer soup-to-nuts information for car buyers including current information on what cars are selling for, manufacturer incentives and negotiating tips.
3. If you locate a dealer that is closing, don’t be afraid to lowball. The worst thing they can say is “no.” A Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep dealer in Arkansas said “it’s not a matter of ‘if’. We will sell them all.” The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported that one local dealership was selling loaded Dodge Ram 1500 trucks for $15,000 off sticker and $12,000 off the lower-priced Dodge Journey. Discounts reported around the country on the high-end Chrysler 300C make it a sedan worth considering.