Buying Experience
 

I've never bought a car on my own can anyone give me some idea of what the buying experience is like especially here in Hawaii? I'm looking at a Limited BRZ but waiting for the new model year (or possibly the STi version). Most of the other threads people say oh just go out of state and get one from a dealer, not so easy to do here (although I could get one in WA/OR since I have family there).

Ideas? Suggestions? What to look out for etc? I have very good credit and a clean driving record and I'll have some money for a down payment.

Be ready to say no. They will try and add on extras at high markups like aftermarket parts, extended warrantees, service plans, etc. Be ready to say no and walk away if they won't remove something you don't want.

Also, shop around for finance rates. Credit unions tend to have the best, but dealers can give some good ones too.

If you put a deposit, get it in writing that it's refundable. It usually isn't an issue but has been for a handful of members on here when they found their car somewhere else. Better safe than sorry.

Good luck with the search when it's time

My BRZ was the first car I bought on my own. I got it at Servco Mapunapuna and it was really quick and easy. They don't mark up prices but they do add on tint and paint protection (Xzilon) which was fine with me. They broke down the pricing, went over paperwork, and answered any questions I had. Besides the Wailae location, I'm not aware of any other dealerships that sells the car on Oahu.

No need to go out of state. Just leave your name with someone at the dealership and they will call you as soon as they get their shipment. Even someone with Scion called me when they got their FR-S'. Of course, it's first come first serve but maybe interest will be down by the next model year and you won't have to wait.

Good luck!

Thanks guys

My experience at Scion was good. ALl the sales staff was nice & helpful. When I finally went in to pick my FRS up, they offered me the usual dealer add on options. But they figured out i knew exactly what I wanted. When they presented the options they did it almost apologetically and told me by policy they have to do it. Only option I picked up was the mud guards, and gave them my front tow hitch liscence adapter. They charged me to install that, which is kinda a rip, but they explained that they can't let the car out without provision for liscence plate, so if you don't want them to drill into the bumper you need to give them your plate kit before you pick up the car and have them install it.