online car (buying)

Buying Online on with the Dealer?
The newest way to buy a new car is to buy via the Internet. Hundreds of car-selling sites provide the services where you simply choose all the specifications of the vehicle you are looking for, and they will do the legwork to find such a car in your immediate area. While this method of car buying may still be in its infancy, it may be particularly useful to those with little time―and an adventurous spirit. Before committing to this method of car buying, however, be sure to read and thoroughly understand the small print on the agreement.
For most car shoppers, the trip to a dealership is inevitable. If you have seriously crunched your budget and have a firm price in mind, and if you have done your research, you should anticipate a successful buying trip. The vast majority of car sellers are on the up-and-up and they want to make the process of buying a car as easy as possible for both parties involved.
A strong dose of self-confidence is in order, however, for that first trip to the lot. You don't want to get talked into more of a car, and more of a monthly payment, than you have planned for should you run into a high-pressure salesperson. When you are ready, here are a few hints that may help the whole process go more smoothly and perhaps help get you the best deal:
Time of day:There are two schools of thought on this issue: some experts advise going to the dealership first thing in the morning, others suggest coming in toward the end of the day. If you are at your best first thing, then by all means shop early in the day. The salesperson may be looking for a jump-start to a terrific day of sales, and you may come away with a great deal. On the other hand, if you still have one eye closed until after noon, don't rush yourself. Many a great deal has been cut right before closing time because the salesperson or dealer want one more sale for that day's books.
Day of the month:Traditional wisdom says that some of the very best days to buy a new car are at the end of the month because the dealership and sales force want to eke out the best end-of-month figures they can.
End of the year:October used to be the month to buy a new car in anticipation of the new models' arrival in November. While many car manufacturers still adhere to that traditional schedule, many carmakers now stagger their new models' issue date. If you have done your homework, you will know when the new models will arrive. Plan to shop for your new car just prior to the new cars coming out. You may not find everything you want (like a certain color), but you may drive away with a new car at a very good price.
Special promotions:Once you know which make and model car you are going to buy, start watching the media for national or local promotions and sales. A drop in interest rates or bonus add-on feature offers for a limited time may just be the incentive you've been waiting for to decide to shop at a particular dealer.
Weather:During inclement weather, new car sales drop off significantly. While conducting business in a driving hailstorm may not be your idea of a good time, if you're ready to purchase that new car, going to the dealership on a less than perfect day may just save you some money.