1. don't buy the extended warranty or warranties-they are cash cows

2. don't buy added on paint sealants, "miracle" waxes, fabric protectants (Scotchguard), undercoats or rustproofing-all huge markups and totally unnecessary

3. DO NOT PAY "Additional Dealer Markup" or "Market Price Adjustments" or "Dealer Protectant Pack" or any other add-on that inflates the MSRP-which is already inflated

4. If you plan on trading in a car, do not mention it until AFTER you have agreed on a price

5. Spend the 10 bucks for the actual cost to the dealer for your car from Consumer Reports and negotiate up from that price, not down from whatever price the dealer is asking

6. Shop around. Be willing to walk away. Do not under any circumstances fall for the "this price is only good right now-if you walk away the offer is rescinded" crock of bullshit. Any dealer who tried that crap with me immediately lost the sale. There are plenty of other dealers selling the same car.