cdynaco

Well gang, 440 views in 24 hrs. Must've struck a nerve!

I mean we're in a jam!

Must be a bunch of Bullittheads in a jam!

cdynaco

Hey Mike: great slogan! I mean I've obviously learned to stay focused on point on my own for a lot of years - in spite of tremendous headwinds. But that's a great saying that threw some gasoline on the fire! I'll remember it! Thanx!!

And don't misunderstand - if you got one, keep her happy... cause it is old goin thru the process over and over to try and find one that'll put up with you!

So I'm pretty well resigned to takin care of me cause that's just how it worked out. Hence a Bullitt as my victory dance!!

Heck here I am, 4.30am, you're about to wake up. But I've had a foot of snow today, the fire's been hot, and the wine's empty. So I guess I'll be turnin in after havin some fun on this board all night.

But your gasoline on top of the wolverine will give me a firey start against Ford CEO's over this ADM scam. Thanx again!

StiRob

Good luck cdynaco, Ill be rooting for you. Manufactureres should hold there represenatives (dealerships) accountable for there shady dealings. Im lucky I have an honest dealer down the street from me but still 95% of the dealerships in the area are crooks.

Rob

05fordgt

Rob, the only problem with the manufacturers controlling the ADM problem is this. Each dealer is NOT run by the manufacturer but by the franchise owner. They have no say in terms of pricing. Heck even Saturn stores were adding ADM's to the Sky roadsters when they 1st hit the market (in my area at least). And the thought of company owned delaers can't happen due to franchise rights.

StiRob

I understand but I dont like it. I guess ultimately ADMs are brought upon us by the consumers who are willing to pay them.

Rob

Dixie_Flatline

It's entirely possible for a manufacturer to control the dealers - unfortunately it's much more difficult after the dealers are already an installed base.

BMW has pretty darn good control over its MINI dealers - but that's because they wouldn't let every BMW dealer become a Mini dealer. There's only three Mini dealers in Chicago. With an established dealer network, the manufacturer would only have the recourse of helping dealers buy each other out.

Now, why is it beneficial for tighter control over dealers? Customer good will and perception of product. It's that much more difficult for the good dealers like 05FordGT and Brian-FiveOh to do business when all their potential new customers walk in the door set to do battle because they know dealing with Ford dealers tends to involve, well, battles.

If the entire process is easier it costs the dealers less money - it's much easier getting customers to pay when they're happy than when they're bitter.


In the end buyers should always be as well informed as possible, no matter where their dealer falls in the friend <> foe scale.

Five Oh Brian

Well, Ford hasn't started telling us about incentives a year in advance, and I doubt they ever will as they do not set them that far in advance to be able to. Often times, Ford changes incentives to match current market trends on specific models, so changing incentives on-the-fly will continue.

While there are no public incentives on Bullitts, lots of other private offers are out there (college grad, military, etc.). Here's the current list as of today for Bullitt...

<TABLE cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=1 width=675 align=center bgColor=#ffffff border=0><TBODY><TR class=hrow><TD class=1>Public Program Selection – Select one of the following:</TD></TR><TR><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" align=center bgColor=white border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=headT id=header style="FONT-WEIGHT: 700; FONT-SIZE: 9pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #dcdcdc" width=20> </TD><TD class=headT id=header style="FONT-WEIGHT: 700; FONT-SIZE: 9pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #dcdcdc" width=20> </TD><TD class=headT id=header style="FONT-WEIGHT: 700; FONT-SIZE: 9pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #dcdcdc" align=middle width=65> Program </TD><TD class=headT id=header style="FONT-WEIGHT: 700; FONT-SIZE: 9pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #dcdcdc" width=300> Description</TD><TD class=headT id=header style="FONT-WEIGHT: 700; FONT-SIZE: 9pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #dcdcdc" width=130> Benefit</TD><TD class=headT id=headerDealer style="FONT-WEIGHT: 700; FONT-SIZE: 9pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" align=middle width=70> End Date </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR><TR><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" align=center border=0><TBODY><TR><TD bgColor=#dcdcdc><TABLE cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=0 width="100%" align=center border=0><TBODY><TR bgColor=white><TD>There are no programs to display<INPUT type=hidden name=blnValidFleetProg></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><INPUT type=hidden value=0 name=blnValidPublicProg>
<TABLE cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=1 width=675 align=center bgColor=#ffffff border=0><TBODY><TR class=hrow><TD class=1>Regional Discount Packages (Currently Invoiced on this VIN).
</TD></TR><TR><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" align=center bgColor=white border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=headT id=header style="FONT-WEIGHT: 700; FONT-SIZE: 9pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #dcdcdc" width=20> </TD><TD class=headT id=header style="FONT-WEIGHT: 700; FONT-SIZE: 9pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #dcdcdc" width=20> </TD><TD class=headT id=header style="FONT-WEIGHT: 700; FONT-SIZE: 9pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #dcdcdc" align=middle width=65> Program </TD><TD class=headT id=header style="FONT-WEIGHT: 700; FONT-SIZE: 9pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #dcdcdc" width=300> Description</TD><TD class=headT id=header style="FONT-WEIGHT: 700; FONT-SIZE: 9pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #dcdcdc" width=70> MSRP</TD><TD class=headT id=headerDealer style="FONT-WEIGHT: 700; FONT-SIZE: 9pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" align=middle width=120> Invoice Less Holdback</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR><TR><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" align=center border=0><TBODY><TR><TD bgColor=#dcdcdc><TABLE cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=1 width="100%" align=center border=0><TBODY><TR bgColor=white><TD>There are no programs to display</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE width=675 align=center><TBODY><TR class=textB><TD>
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
<TABLE cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=1 width=675 align=center bgColor=#ffffff border=0><TBODY><TR class=hrow><TD class=1>Potentially Eligible Private/Affiliate Programs– Select all that apply
NOTE: Private/Affiliate Offers may require customer eligibility be verified, collected and retained by the dealership. Refer to Program Announcement.</TD></TR><TR><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" align=center bgColor=white border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=headT id=header style="FONT-WEIGHT: 700; FONT-SIZE: 9pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #dcdcdc" width=20> </TD><TD class=headT id=header style="FONT-WEIGHT: 700; FONT-SIZE: 9pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #dcdcdc" width=20> </TD><TD class=headT id=header style="FONT-WEIGHT: 700; FONT-SIZE: 9pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #dcdcdc" align=middle width=65> Program </TD><TD class=headT id=header style="FONT-WEIGHT: 700; FONT-SIZE: 9pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #dcdcdc" width=300> Description</TD><TD class=headTI id=headerDealer style="FONT-WEIGHT: 700; FONT-SIZE: 9pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=130 bgColor=#ffffcf> Benefit</TD><TD class=headTI id=headerDealer style="FONT-WEIGHT: 700; FONT-SIZE: 9pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" align=middle width=70 bgColor=#ffffcf> End Date </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR><TR><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" align=center border=0><TBODY><TR><TD bgColor=#dcdcdc><TABLE cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=1 width="100%" align=center border=0><TBODY><TR bgColor=white><TD><TR class=odd><TD align=middle width=20><INPUT id=chk32260 onclick="Javascript:clearTxtRange(this,'txt32260') ;updateDepArray('chkPrivate', '32260', this.checked);countRateProgram(document.getElement ById('chk32260'),'False'); " type=checkbox name=chkPrivate></TD><SCRIPT language=Javascript>countRateProgram(document.getE lementById('chk32260'),'False');</SCRIPT><TD align=middle width=20></TD><TD align=right width=65>32260 </TD><TD width=300> College Student Purchase Program</TD><TD id=odd style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=130 bgColor=#ffffcf> $ 500.00</TD><TD id=odd style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=70 bgColor=#ffffcf> 01/02/08</TD></TR><TR class=even><TD align=middle width=20><INPUT id=chk32282 onclick="Javascript:clearTxtRange(this,'txt32282') ;updateDepArray('chkPrivate', '32282', this.checked);countRateProgram(document.getElement ById('chk32282'),'False'); " type=checkbox name=chkPrivate></TD><SCRIPT language=Javascript>countRateProgram(document.getE lementById('chk32282'),'False');</SCRIPT><TD align=middle width=20></TD><TD align=right width=65>32282 </TD><TD width=300> American Quarter Horse Association Member Offer</TD><TD id=even style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=130 bgColor=#ffffcf> $ 500.00</TD><TD id=even style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=70 bgColor=#ffffcf> 01/02/08</TD></TR><TR class=odd><TD align=middle width=20><INPUT id=chk32388 onclick="Javascript:clearTxtRange(this,'txt32388') ;updateDepArray('chkPrivate', '32388', this.checked);countRateProgram(document.getElement ById('chk32388'),'False'); " type=checkbox name=chkPrivate></TD><TD align=middle width=20></TD><TD align=right width=65>32388 </TD><TD width=300> Race for the Cure Private Offer</TD><TD id=odd style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=130 bgColor=#ffffcf> $ 500.00</TD><TD id=odd style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=70 bgColor=#ffffcf> 12/31/07</TD></TR><TR class=even><TD align=middle width=20><INPUT id=chk32446 onclick="Javascript:clearTxtRange(this,'txt32446') ;updateDepArray('chkPrivate', '32446', this.checked);countRateProgram(document.getElement ById('chk32446'),'False'); " type=checkbox name=chkPrivate></TD><TD align=middle width=20></TD><TD align=right width=65>32446 </TD><TD width=300> CRM Customized Fulfillment Direct Offer</TD><TD id=even style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=130 bgColor=#ffffcf> $ 750.00</TD><TD id=even style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=70 bgColor=#ffffcf> 01/02/08</TD></TR><TR class=odd><TD align=middle width=20><INPUT id=chk32460 onclick="Javascript:clearTxtRange(this,'txt32460') ;updateDepArray('chkPrivate', '32460', this.checked);countRateProgram(document.getElement ById('chk32460'),'False'); " type=checkbox name=chkPrivate></TD><TD align=middle width=20></TD><TD align=right width=65>32460 </TD><TD width=300> 4Q - 2007 Competitive Lease Conquest CRM Program</TD><TD id=odd style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=130 bgColor=#ffffcf> $ 1000.00</TD><TD id=odd style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=70 bgColor=#ffffcf> 01/31/08</TD></TR><TR class=even><TD align=middle width=20><INPUT id=chk32476 onclick="Javascript:clearTxtRange(this,'txt32476') ;updateDepArray('chkPrivate', '32476', this.checked);countRateProgram(document.getElement ById('chk32476'),'False'); " type=checkbox name=chkPrivate></TD><SCRIPT language=Javascript>countRateProgram(document.getE lementById('chk32476'),'False');</SCRIPT><TD align=middle width=20></TD><TD align=right width=65>32476 </TD><TD width=300> My Ford Private Offer</TD><TD id=even style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=130 bgColor=#ffffcf> $ 750.00</TD><TD id=even style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=70 bgColor=#ffffcf> 01/02/08</TD></TR><TR class=odd><TD align=middle width=20><INPUT id=chk32478 onclick="Javascript:clearTxtRange(this,'txt32478') ;updateDepArray('chkPrivate', '32478', this.checked);countRateProgram(document.getElement ById('chk32478'),'False'); " type=checkbox name=chkPrivate></TD><SCRIPT language=Javascript>countRateProgram(document.getE lementById('chk32478'),'False');</SCRIPT><TD align=middle width=20></TD><TD align=right width=65>32478 </TD><TD width=300> 2008 Mobility Motoring Program</TD><TD id=odd style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=130 bgColor=#ffffcf> $ 1.00 - 1000.00</TD><TD id=odd style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=70 bgColor=#ffffcf> 08/31/08</TD></TR><TR class=even><TD align=middle width=20><INPUT id=chk32482 onclick="Javascript:clearTxtRange(this,'txt32482') ;updateDepArray('chkPrivate', '32482', this.checked);countRateProgram(document.getElement ById('chk32482'),'False'); " type=checkbox name=chkPrivate></TD><TD align=middle width=20></TD><TD align=right width=65>32482 </TD><TD width=300> 4Q F-150 CRM Truck Private Offer</TD><TD id=even style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=130 bgColor=#ffffcf> $ 750.00</TD><TD id=even style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=70 bgColor=#ffffcf> 01/02/08</TD></TR><TR class=odd><TD align=middle width=20><INPUT id=chk32498 onclick="Javascript:clearTxtRange(this,'txt32498') ;updateDepArray('chkPrivate', '32498', this.checked);countRateProgram(document.getElement ById('chk32498'),'False'); " type=checkbox name=chkPrivate></TD><TD align=middle width=20></TD><TD align=right width=65>32498 </TD><TD width=300> SUV/CUV Portfolio Direct Mail Offer</TD><TD id=odd style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=130 bgColor=#ffffcf> $ 750.00</TD><TD id=odd style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=70 bgColor=#ffffcf> 01/02/08</TD></TR><TR class=even><TD align=middle width=20><INPUT id=chk32500 onclick="Javascript:clearTxtRange(this,'txt32500') ;updateDepArray('chkPrivate', '32500', this.checked);countRateProgram(document.getElement ById('chk32500'),'False'); " type=checkbox name=chkPrivate></TD><TD align=middle width=20></TD><TD align=right width=65>32500 </TD><TD width=300> Car Portfolio Direct Mail Offer</TD><TD id=even style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=130 bgColor=#ffffcf> $ 500.00</TD><TD id=even style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=70 bgColor=#ffffcf> 01/02/08</TD></TR><TR class=odd><TD align=middle width=20><INPUT id=chk32502 onclick="Javascript:clearTxtRange(this,'txt32502') ;updateDepArray('chkPrivate', '32502', this.checked);countRateProgram(document.getElement ById('chk32502'),'False'); " type=checkbox name=chkPrivate></TD><TD align=middle width=20></TD><TD align=right width=65>32502 </TD><TD width=300> 4Q Autobytel Private Offer</TD><TD id=odd style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=130 bgColor=#ffffcf> $ 750.00</TD><TD id=odd style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=70 bgColor=#ffffcf> 01/02/08</TD></TR><TR class=even><TD align=middle width=20><INPUT id=chk32504 onclick="Javascript:clearTxtRange(this,'txt32504') ;updateDepArray('chkPrivate', '32504', this.checked);countRateProgram(document.getElement ById('chk32504'),'False'); " type=checkbox name=chkPrivate></TD><SCRIPT language=Javascript>countRateProgram(document.getE lementById('chk32504'),'False');</SCRIPT><TD align=middle width=20></TD><TD align=right width=65>32504 </TD><TD width=300> Military Appreciation</TD><TD id=even style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=130 bgColor=#ffffcf> $ 500.00</TD><TD id=even style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=70 bgColor=#ffffcf> 01/02/08</TD></TR><TR class=odd><TD align=middle width=20><INPUT id=chk32512 onclick="Javascript:clearTxtRange(this,'txt32512') ;updateDepArray('chkPrivate', '32512', this.checked);countRateProgram(document.getElement ById('chk32512'),'False'); " type=checkbox name=chkPrivate></TD><TD align=middle width=20></TD><TD align=right width=65>32512 </TD><TD width=300> RCL/RCO Renewal</TD><TD id=odd style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=130 bgColor=#ffffcf> $ 500.00</TD><TD id=odd style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=70 bgColor=#ffffcf> 01/02/08</TD></TR><TR class=even><TD align=middle width=20><INPUT id=chk32518 onclick="Javascript:clearTxtRange(this,'txt32518') ;updateDepArray('chkPrivate', '32518', this.checked);countRateProgram(document.getElement ById('chk32518'),'False'); " type=checkbox name=chkPrivate></TD><TD align=middle width=20> </TD><TD align=right width=65>32518 </TD><TD width=300> Early Bird</TD><TD id=even style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=130 bgColor=#ffffcf> $ 1.00 - 1400.00</TD><TD id=even style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=70 bgColor=#ffffcf> 01/02/08</TD></TR><TR class=odd><TD align=middle width=20><INPUT id=chk32532 onclick="Javascript:clearTxtRange(this,'txt32532') ;updateDepArray('chkPrivate', '32532', this.checked);countRateProgram(document.getElement ById('chk32532'),'False'); " type=checkbox name=chkPrivate></TD><TD align=middle width=20></TD><TD align=right width=65>32532 </TD><TD width=300> 4Q Defection Program Private Offer</TD><TD id=odd style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=130 bgColor=#ffffcf> $ 500.00 - 1000.00</TD><TD id=odd style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=70 bgColor=#ffffcf> 01/02/08</TD></TR><TR class=even><TD align=middle width=20><INPUT id=chk32534 onclick="Javascript:clearTxtRange(this,'txt32534') ;updateDepArray('chkPrivate', '32534', this.checked);countRateProgram(document.getElement ById('chk32534'),'False'); " type=checkbox name=chkPrivate></TD><TD align=middle width=20> </TD><TD align=right width=65>32534 </TD><TD width=300> Ford Credit Bonus Cash Marketing Program</TD><TD id=even style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=130 bgColor=#ffffcf> $ 500.00</TD><TD id=even style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=70 bgColor=#ffffcf> 01/15/08</TD></TR><TR class=odd><TD align=middle width=20><INPUT id=chk32536 onclick="Javascript:clearTxtRange(this,'txt32536') ;updateDepArray('chkPrivate', '32536', this.checked);countRateProgram(document.getElement ById('chk32536'),'False'); " type=checkbox name=chkPrivate></TD><TD align=middle width=20></TD><TD align=right width=65>32536 </TD><TD width=300> Payment Advantage Direct Mail Conquest Offer</TD><TD id=odd style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=130 bgColor=#ffffcf> $ 750.00</TD><TD id=odd style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=70 bgColor=#ffffcf> 02/29/08</TD></TR><TR class=even><TD align=middle width=20><INPUT id=chk38018 onclick="Javascript:clearTxtRange(this,'txt38018') ;updateDepArray('chkPrivate', '38018', this.checked);countRateProgram(document.getElement ById('chk38018'),'False'); " type=checkbox name=chkPrivate></TD><TD align=middle width=20></TD><TD align=right width=65>38018 </TD><TD width=300> Cabela's Gift Card Private Offer</TD><TD id=even style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=130 bgColor=#ffffcf> $ 750.00</TD><TD id=even style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=70 bgColor=#ffffcf> 01/02/08</TD></TR><TR class=odd><TD align=middle width=20><INPUT id=chk38020 onclick="Javascript:clearTxtRange(this,'txt38020') ;updateDepArray('chkPrivate', '38020', this.checked);countRateProgram(document.getElement ById('chk38020'),'False'); " type=checkbox name=chkPrivate></TD><TD align=middle width=20></TD><TD align=right width=65>38020 </TD><TD width=300> My Ford CRM Fulfillment Private Offer</TD><TD id=odd style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=130 bgColor=#ffffcf> $ 1.00</TD><TD id=odd style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=70 bgColor=#ffffcf> 01/02/08</TD></TR><TR class=even><TD align=middle width=20><INPUT id=chk38024 onclick="Javascript:clearTxtRange(this,'txt38024') ;updateDepArray('chkPrivate', '38024', this.checked);countRateProgram(document.getElement ById('chk38024'),'False'); " type=checkbox name=chkPrivate></TD><TD align=middle width=20></TD><TD align=right width=65>38024 </TD><TD width=300> Cabela's Gift Card Direct Mail Offer</TD><TD id=even style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=130 bgColor=#ffffcf> $ 750.00</TD><TD id=even style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; COLOR: #666666; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffcf" width=70 bgColor=#ffffcf> 01/02/08</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Five Oh Brian

Well, I've been in trouble with Ford in the past over information sharing at other Mustang forums when I was not anonymous (and under a different user name). I'd like to keep my job and still be able to inform you all, while learning what I need to know from you all in return.

Again, I am here as a Mustang enthusiast first and foremost. Just a coincidence that I work at a very nice, well-respected dealership.

Novelty goat

Your money, your negotiation. Get mad at yourself but nobody held a gun to your head and forced you to buy.

Also, if you think that dealers trying to make a buck is domestic auto industry only (as you seem to, based on your GM vs Toyota rant), you are misguided. A dealer is a dealer is a dealer, no matter whose product they sell.

Finally, quit whining and good luck with an awesome car.

Dixie_Flatline

I gotta start shopping at Cabela's instead of Gander Mountain.

05stangkc

http://forums.bradbarnett.net/showth...ght=DEALERSHIP

On the Flip side!

KC

Dixie_Flatline

And we most certainly appreciate your help, service and advice! Please keep your job so you can help us make sense of all those less sane dealers out there!

c25sailor

Charliehorse:

I'm sympathetic, but it seems to me you're raising a whole lot of cain over the fact that you agreed to an ADM when you may not have needed to. That one is on you. We live in a country that prides itself on running a market economy -- that means the laws of supply and demand work in the marketplace. You chose to want to buy a Bullitt which is a "limited" edition Mustang. Some of the dealers (who have the supply) are acting in their economic interests (they aren't a charity) and wish to maximize their returns on the "limited" supply. They raise the price to meet the demand. As long as people pay the raised price -- they make more money, the folks who are willing to pay the higher price get what they want. The demand is reduced to match the supply because the folks that don't want to pay the higher price -- they don't buy. I faced the same thing when I ordered my car in November. I really wanted a Shelby GT Convertible. Carroll Shelby adds about 5K to that sucker just for the name plate. My friendly dealer, who normally charges about 5K ADM on Shelby's and 10K on GT500's was willing to deal with me and sell a Shelby GT at MSRP. I looked at the options and decided that I could build one that I liked better for less, so . . . I ordered my GT/CS -- at Dealer Invoice, added the FRPP that I liked to match up with the Shelby, but changed suspensions to one I liked better. Wham -- I have the car that I want at a price I was willing to pay. It may not have the "collectibility" -- I'm dubious on that anyway -- who knows what old cars people will like in 30 years -- may be no gas. My dealer can sell the Shelby to someone willing to pay the ADM and everyone is happy. . It is really simple economics. Sometimes its frustrating, but we all get to make choices on the street. You want the Bullitt -- pay the price and enjoy a wonderful car. You don't want the Bullitt -- get informed decide what you want and get it. Railing at people who agreed to sell you what you wanted -- and met their goals -- they are in business -- doesn't make alot of since.

If you really want to see how tough it can be -- go to a Toyota Dealer or pay a call on your local BMW dealer. They don't have to negotiate and frequently don't. Try to buy and M series BMW and let your jaw drop at the ADM on that baby. $2500 will be chump change at the blue and white propeller place.

No one likes ADM -- but it is a way manufacturers help dealers out a bit -- Ford GT's, T-Birds and other cars have had it always or from time to time. It is what the car costs.

I'm not a dealer, don't work for a dealer so don't think I'm taking their sides - -but it is a tough business -- especially this year -- and whining about what they charge isn't helping you or them. You choose to buy or not -- and at what price. Don't blame someone else when you get a case of buyer's remorse. Call the guy, say I don't want the car -- give me my deposit back, if not, I'm going to have to get my lawyer to call and see what we can do to get it back.

That will probably work. If not, make your choice. Someone else may be willing to pay 3000 dollars to take over your order. Put it on e-bay.

My rant ends. We're adults here -- Happy New Year.

cdynaco

Who's whining? I've taken the risk of public embarrassment by telling my experience and having some fun in doing it. The experience exposes a status quo that in many industries would be considered borderline fraudulent. (No wonder so many industries have become regulated.) And the 3 Dealers I had direct personal contact with had the same routine. Price fixing, conspiracy to fix prices, and across State lines... these unethical practices on the consumer are opening Dealerships & Manufacturers up to some hot shot law firm and potential Class action. (Look at what's happening in the loan industry as we speak. Have you seen the numerous legal actions filed against 'gunslinger' mortgage brokers and even banks??)

Obviously by the numerous views and responses - most of which are confirmation that 'something's rotten in denmark' - it needs to be exposed! And certainly, the United States provides me the opportunity to publicize & discuss the 'hush hush', 'backroom' tactics of what many people deem shady business practices. And those practices reflect back on the manufacturer as well as the honest personnel in the business. They had better self police or someday somebody will do the policing for them. IMO

As I have already stated, you bet I'm gonna love my Bullitt!

Best wishes

Moonshiner

As I have already stated, you bet I'm gonna love my Bullitt!

Best wishes[/quote]

At least you have a VIN #, I placed my order on 11/12/07. I still do not have a VIN #. But I am not worried in the least bit.
Reason : The 24 Beef cattle in the holding pen are getting fatter each day, the local market prices are going up at the cattle auction. i can remember when 10 head would buy a pick up truck.

24x800x1.55=$29,760.00=2008 Bullitt , Life is GOOD.

c25sailor

I don't think you've taken the risk of being embarrassed. There is nothing embarassing about your situation. You are throwing out some pretty charged legal terms though. Fraud involves and requires a material misrepresentation that one party knows to be false, made to another party who the first party intends to rely upon the false represenation. The second party has to have a right to rely upon it and do so to the second party's loss. A dealer telling you that I'm going to sell you a car for a premium above MSRP isn't fraudulent. My local dealer posts ADM on the windshield. It is just advising of the "price to play". Everyone agrees that there are bad actors in every industry -- just look at the line of disgraced ministers and priests as an example.

I do believe however, that if we are going to whistleblow on the bad guys -- we ought to confine it to them. If the car will sell at auction for more than MSRP -- that is its value. If multiple consumers will pay that price -- same thing. The fact that a dealer, who is probably selling focuses and F150s at invoice -- hoping that the holdback covers the floor plan, takes advantage of an opportunity isn't borderline fraudulent conduct. It is the free market. The fact that you don't like it, entitles you to do business elsewhere -- but it doesn't make the dealer a bad actor.

In your posts, you have admitted that you didn't know what ADM was when you went shopping. You may have paid a price for the eduction -- we all do. Experience gives knowledge -- but sometimes at a price. One of the great things about these forums is that folks get the opportunity to share information. I know that they have been invaluable to me -- learning about people's experiences with products and services. They have helped me add value to my car -- and I've had the benefit of other's experience. Thanks for giving others the benefit of yours. But let's refrain from the name calling and pointing fingers. I don't like ADM and when I bought my car, I chose not to participate by not purchasing a car that carried it. You want one that seems too -- at least in some places -- you've paid the piper, but you'll be driving the real Bullitt.

Don't beat up the marketplace. Nothing deceptive about the practice. We may not like it but it's legal. If a hot shot law firm finds a way to go to town on it -- that will be their contribution to the marketplace -- although IMHO success on the claim would be dubious. There are hundreds of pages of statutes on the books about automobile franchises and the fact that a dealer is an independent business that can sell cars for whatever he or she wants. The manufacturer has to sell to all dealers equally, the public doesn't get that protection. Kicking the Ford dealers while they're down - they all have lost hundreds of thousands of dollars on the "blue sky" in their dealerships this year, doesn't solve a thing.

Be glad that they are here -- at least for the present -- with the opportunity to deliver you a Bullitt. When Congress and the Environmental Guys finish rewriting CAFE -- I fear that the price to play with a Mustang V8 -- if they'll let us have one at all, will be fearsome. That will be something worthy of this rant.

Again, Happy New Year. When you get the car, post photos.

Five Oh Brian

cdynaco, please take responsibility for your own actions. You agreed to pay a certain price for a car, but now have buyer's remorse. Get over yourself. This is not price fixing or collusion or anything else that the FTC or any class action lawyer cares about.

The USA is a market economy. Supply and demand dictate pricing. Time to read (or re-read) about the "Invisible Hand" that Adam Smith wrote about hundreds of years ago (basic economic required reading, FYI).

Here's an analogy that you may relate to. My sister recently sold her Appaloosa. He was getting older and was borderline lame per the vet. My sister did not get much money for this well-trained, award winning horse and it took a long time to find the right buyer as its health was marginal. Supply was greater than demand, so the price was low.

My sister replaced the Appaloosa with a Paint. Nice, young, healthy horse. Popular coloring/markings, good tempered, etc. She had to pay a lot more as others were bidding on this horse, as well. Demand was greater than supply, so the price was high. Had she regretted paying so much after the deal, would it have been reasonable to threaten legal action and public slander of the trainer that sold her the horse in an effort to force back some of the monies that were exchanged?

Other trainers get top dollar for their services and their horses, so is this price fixing that the FTC ought to know about? Should there be regulations enacted in the horse buying/selling business? Or, should we just let our market economy, with supply and demand, continue unregulated to let prices fall where they may?

I believe that if two parties agree to a price, then that price is fair. Doesn't matter what other parties are agreeing to elsewhere. Like my momma used to say: you made your bed, you sleep in it!

StillenMustang07

Hey there,

I have watched this thread and kept out of it (like all else in life - everyone has an opinion). Just curious though - what is there about ADM that might even remotely be considered 'hush hush' or 'backroom' tactics? The ADM is right there on the window - right next to the window sticker - for ALL to see. Nothing hush hush or back room about the way this is done at all. Its rather in your face if you ask me.

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1 COBRA

My reference was not about the information you share which excluding the possibility of it being top secret eventually all of it becomes public knowledge, in one forum or another. It was about your refusal to place an order for the several TMS members who have PMd you.

If those members are willing to pay MSRP and you stated the dealer you work for sells for MSRP, what's wrong with selling to them and how is your job placed in jeopardy by either making a sale yourself or allowing a co-worker to handle the transaction?

Martimus