I'm a naive first-time A4 buyer. I was so excited about ordering my car that I really didn't talk about price, thinking I'd be able to negotiate once the car is being shipped and I work out the financing with the dealer. I've only paid the $500 deposit. Am I screwed, or do I still have a chance to haggle?

n<br>

Your salesman holds all the cards. He could ask MSRP and if you walk he's still $500 ahead. If he sells the car to someone else he's already made $500. What incentive does he have to negotiate? Of course, some dealers want to be on good terms with their customers and may be willing to negotiate a fair deal -- but not a great deal.<p>I'd start negotiating with them NOW!

<br>and negotiated a price (about $2500) over list. After doing more research (on this site) I found that to be way too much. I have a refundable $500 deposit. When the car comes in, I will tell my dealer that he needs to knock another $1000 off or forget it. Maybe he can find someone else willing to buy a Laser Red Avant 2.8 QMS with Ecru/Onyx leather sport seats, all weather package, Bose and no sunroof. If not, he can sell it to me for my price. One can't be too anxious about these things.

The $500 deposit is fully refundable if I walk. I didn't sign on the dotted line (neither did the dealer) and have not negotiated financing yet. I ordered the car because their pickings are really slim and I wanted to be sure I got what I wanted. This car has not even had a build order assigned yet. I have the invoice pricing and plan to ask for $1500 over invoice, which I think is fair. I'm not trying for the deal of the century (I already think the A4 IS the deal of the century!).

You may have to start the long wait all over again if months from now, when the car finally arrives, your dealer decides not to be flexible. Nothing to lose by negotiating now; much to lose by waiting.

Doctor,<p>while correct it may be that negotiation<br>can officially occur until delivery, <br>you agreed to a price and are expected to keep your word, as should the dealer....alot of effort went into the negotiation of your price and location of a vehicle to trade with another dealer, for allocations were not made available in your region, so another region had to trade with us, therefore causing countless paperwork, phone calls, phone tag, alot of headache in general.....one more thing, you agreed to a NON refundable deposit when ordering your NO sunroof car...I know, because I required it of you......<br>by the way, you will enjoy your car....<br>p.s.--be talking to you soon<p>ND