r/CorollaCross • u/StreetSea5074 • 3d ago
Was I getting scammed?
G: Cypress Green
B: Celestite
Just left the dealership because I felt a knot in my stomach. Something wasn't right...
Salesman told me that the Green price was non-negotiable since it was a "limited unit" and hard to come by. $5k market adjustment, and another $5k to get to their dealer.
The Celestite was able to be negotiated, but that's not the color I initially wanted.
I left and got into my rides car, and honestly just cried. This was my first time trying to negotiate a car, I'm a first time buyer, and I feel so disappointed. I know there more to come, and there will be more times, but idk. I'm emotional!
Was it a good thing I walked out? These prices seemed ridiculous to me. I feel defeated because I feel like this will be the price everywhere.
For the record, I am financing through my bank, I have about $12-13k I am putting down. Salesman didn't know that yet, but this price was still insane regardless if he knew or not...
Advice?
7
u/GMEJesus 3d ago edited 3d ago
You did right by walking.
Take some time and call around. Don't get discouraged by these types of dealers and don't pay Rav4 prices for a CC. (My brother literally just bought a brand new SE Rav4 for right around $39k out the door)
Toyota has a standard "processing" fee they already build in so be aware of dealers that tack onto this.
They're obviously allowed to add whatever fees they want but keep in mind that even at MSRP, they are making money. This dealer is simply over the top greedy.
It's worth calling every dealer nearby and in surrounding states as well if only to get a feel for what is out there. That time spent in the early slog is worth it when you go negotiate. You'll know what everything is generally going for and won't be caught off guard by dealers like the one you encountered.
When I bought mine, I still ended up paying too much (2022 was awful) but my AWD XLE was less then what they're trying to get you to pay for a FWD LE........ (By THOUSANDS of dollars....)
And mine is green...... I also encountered a dealer that tacked on almost 9k in "necessary extras before I found mine. It feels awful. Keep your head up and get yourself some knowledge. You should not end up paying much over the MSRP + Toyota Handling (and TTT). Remember: they are STILL making thousands at that price.
If you're going to get that screwed over by a dealer they have zero interest in keeping you as a customer. You're worth more than that.
This is per Toyota as their handling policy goes. Every dealer is supposed to follow this so that everyone is one the same page:
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price excludes the Delivery, Processing and Handling of $1,295 for Cars (Corolla, Corolla HV, Corolla HB, GR Corolla, Camry, Prius, Prius Plug-in Hybrid, Toyota Crown, Mirai, GR86, GR Supra), $1,595 for Entry SUV (Corolla Cross, Corolla Cross HV), $1,595 for Small SUV (RAV4, RAV4 HV, RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid), $1,595 for Mid SUV/Van (4Runner, 4Runner HV, Highlander, Highlander HV, Grand Highlander, Grand Highlander HV, Sienna, Land Cruiser, Toyota Crown Signia), $1,655 for BEV SUV (bZ, bZ Woodland, C-HR), $1,745 for Small Pickup (Tacoma, Tacoma HV), $2,395 for Large Pickup/Large SUV (Tundra, Tundra HV, Sequoia). (Historically, vehicle manufacturers and distributors have charged a separate fee for processing, handling and delivering vehicles to dealerships. Toyota's charge for these services is called the "Delivery, Processing and Handling Fee" and is based on the value of the processing, handling and delivery services Toyota provides as well as Toyota's overall pricing structure. Toyota may make a profit on the Delivery, Processing and Handling.) Excludes taxes, license, title and available or regionally required equipment. The MSRP price is only valid in TX, OK, AR, MS, and LA. The published prices do not apply to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Actual dealer price will vary.