The Expert Podcast

• Car buying has become incredibly difficult with limited inventory and high markups at dealerships. But there’s a strategy you can use to get the best deal on the car you want.
• Today, we’ll show you how to navigate this tricky landscape using a real-life example: the Chrysler Pacifica.

• We selected the Chrysler Pacifica AWD model and input a 250-mile radius around a zip code north of Dallas.
• Tip: Always select the largest radius allowed to expand your search options.
• Make sure to filter for vehicles "on dealer lot" first to see what’s available immediately.

• In our search, we found 57 "near matches" and just one exact match. Many of the cars available were Pinnacle and Touring models, which are higher-end and lower-end trims.
• Price difference: Pinnacle models were priced around $58,000, while Touring models were priced around $42,000.

• Switching to the "in transit" filter, we observed more Limited models coming soon, but still fewer than Pinnacle and Touring models.
• Takeaway: Limited models will be more difficult to find, and likely won’t be discounted heavily.

• Knowing what’s coming into dealer inventories can help you plan.
• If you’re looking for a particular model, such as the Limited, you’ll see it’s in short supply compared to other models.
• Dealers will have more of certain models, and this insight can help you negotiate better.

• By examining the “being built” inventory, you can predict future availability.
• High-end and low-end models are being prioritized, while mid-tier models are in short supply.
• If you can be flexible, you may get a good deal on a Touring or Pinnacle model that’s heavily discounted.

• Dealers may already have discounts on some models. For example, the difference between a Limited ($56,057) and a Pinnacle ($58,435) could be as low as $1,000 after applying discounts.
• Look for dealer ads that show rebates and special offers to make the deal even better.

• You don’t need to buy blindly or settle for a high markup. Understanding the pipeline and inventory will give you an edge when negotiating.
• Stay informed, know what’s coming, and you’ll be in a better position to strike a deal on your next car purchase.

• This strategy works for almost any brand of car you’re interested in. Keep exploring, and happy car shopping!