Things That are Non-Negotiable at a Dealership

When negotiating with a car dealer, it's smart to know what items are NOT negotiable.

Many customers try to negotiate fees that a dealer has no control over, which frustrates salesmen and demonstrates your lack of car buying knowledge.

If there's a certain fee you're not happy with, it's best to try to lower the overall price of the vehicle instead of focusing on that specific fee. The following items are non-negotiable.

1. Sales Tax

   If you're not happy with the sales tax, your only option is to move to another state with lower taxes. On top of state taxes, many cities and counties charge an additional amount, so be prepared.

   Also note that most states charge tax on any cash rebates you receive from the manufacturer. The good news - most states deduct the value of your trade-in from the purchase price of the new car before taxing (as long as it's one transaction with the same dealer).

2. Tag and Title Fees

   Dealers have no control over this - it goes straight to the government.

3. Documentation Fees

   Although doc fees may differ from dealer to dealer, they are not allowed to charge different rates for different customers, so this is non-negotiable. Many states set the rates on doc fees (such as New York and New Jersey), while other states allow dealers to charge up to a certain amount (sometimes as high as $1,000).

4. Lease Acquisition, Disposition, and Mileage Fees

   If you're leasing a vehicle, the leasing company (which is usually not the dealer) will charge an acquisition and disposition fee. Since the dealer has no control over this, it is a non-negotiable fee.

   Same goes for the mileage overage fees. If you feel you're going to drive the car more than the allotted miles, you should pre-pay the overages since most leases provide a discount for up front payment.