If you’ve tried buying a car in Miami lately, you’ve probably run into:

✅ $3K–$10K markups over MSRP
✅ “Market adjustment” fees that mean nothing
✅ Mandatory dealer add-ons you didn’t ask for
✅ Salespeople who don’t care if you walk — they know someone else will overpay

I negotiate car deals for a living, and South Florida dealerships are some of the worst when it comes to inflated pricing and shady tactics.

So how do you actually get a deal?

You’ve got to get out of the local bubble. The smartest buyers in Florida are shopping out of state — Georgia, North Carolina, Texas, the Midwest — anywhere dealers aren’t trying to squeeze every last dollar out of you. A lot of them are still selling at MSRP or even under, especially if you’re financing. And yes, flying out or paying for shipping is sometimes way cheaper than overpaying here.

Everything should be negotiated before you set foot in a dealership. That means locking in your full out-the-door price (with all taxes and fees) by email or phone, so there are no surprises and no pressure once you show up.

Never negotiate based on monthly payments. That’s how dealers sneak in bad rates, add-ons, and extended terms without you noticing. Negotiate the total price, then work out your monthly if you need financing.

And if you have a trade-in, treat it as a completely separate transaction. Use instant offers from CarMax, Carvana, and KBB to figure out what it’s worth before you mention it at a dealership. That way, you know if they’re trying to lowball you.

Looking to get a good deal on a new vehicle? I post incentives, 0% APR offers, and buying tips in r/newcardeals !