Tell us what you forgot to ask/do

[dboz]

Originally Posted by G-Omaha

Order the car to your requirements and pay invoice - for the car and the accessories. Accessories are NOT cheaper on-line than they would be installed at "the port". Service packages are, IMHO, not worth it; however a SUABRU GOLD SAS is. "Regardless of price" - that is (how can one say ignorant without offending?). Order what you want and then wait for it, my best advise.

I wonder how I just got my OEM autostart purchased online and installed for a total of $300? The dealer wanted nearly $400 just for the parts. Guess you should LEARN how to use the internet. "the port" as you call it is the DEALER. You still think these cars come from the ship?? A GOLD SAS is ONLY good if you keep your car for a prolonged period and then only worth it if a MAJOR component fails. If not, Subie appreciates your contribution. I never understood warranty purchases. If you can afford the $1500 or whatever they want, you can afford everything on the car (should it need it) except for maybe the transmission and engine which would be significantly more. IMO, it is cheaper to just buy a new car when the factory warranty runs out.

"REGARDLESS OF PRICE" meant that get what you want so you don't get caught up trying to save a few hundred up front, then two years from now wish you had the heated seats or HK stereo or auto climate control at which point the cost is prohibitive.

[fatabbot]

Originally Posted by gomjabber

I can give you a million good reasons why buying extended warranties is like throwing money down a rat hole. But people should do what they feel comfortable doing. If this a extended warranty gives you peace of mind, it's probably worth it.

+1

Hard to make a financial case for an extended warranty. It's an emotional/peace of mind decision. Anyone trying to pass them off as a must have for everyone should be ignored.

[imwjl]

Originally Posted by Michaelcpa

Please educate us so we can make a better more informed and pleasant transaction!

Join IMBA or one of the organizations that has a "VIP" sales program.

In my area the 2% less than "invoice" is better than most buyers get. The program seems to mean you get a senior sales person. Little time wasted via their looking up the price and giving your bottom line to bottom like trade info if you trade.

One other tip is be nice. Sure salespeople can be jerks but same for customers. Ask for somebody else if you have a jerk or dullard. My being nice made the whole get it done and get good service better.

Finally I personally and many others make good use if the donation Subaru makes if you like to bike, hike or walk on public lands.

[Bikermike]

Extended warranties are insurance policies, they make money on them or they wouldn't sell them. It's not to your benefit it's to theirs. Even Consumer Guide suggests putting that same amount of money that you would pay for the warranty in a bank account and use it for the repairs. What you don't spend you still have.

[OBnube]

Originally Posted by dboz

...... "the port" as you call it is the DEALER. You still think these cars come from the ship?? ........

I disagree. The "port" which still exists for the Imprezas is the default name still used for where OB's get "factory" accesories installed after the assembly line but before they reach the dealer. I have heard several locations for where that actually is. It is a carryover from when all Subie's came off a boat and accesories were installed there. Items installed at the "port" will show up on the window sticker, items installed at the dealer do not.

[mpnret]

Originally Posted by dboz

I wonder how I just got my OEM autostart purchased online and installed for a total of $300? The dealer wanted nearly $400 just for the parts. Guess you should LEARN how to use the internet. "the port" as you call it is the DEALER. You still think these cars come from the ship?? A GOLD SAS is ONLY good if you keep your car for a prolonged period and then only worth it if a MAJOR component fails. If not, Subie appreciates your contribution. I never understood warranty purchases. If you can afford the $1500 or whatever they want, you can afford everything on the car (should it need it) except for maybe the transmission and engine which would be significantly more. IMO, it is cheaper to just buy a new car when the factory warranty runs out.

"REGARDLESS OF PRICE" meant that get what you want so you don't get caught up trying to save a few hundred up front, then two years from now wish you had the heated seats or HK stereo or auto climate control at which point the cost is prohibitive.

I agree with the OP. The port is almost always cheaper than buying online or otherwise afterward. My port installed RS was less than $300. You seem to be confused between port and dealer. The post above offers you a good explanation. My OB was purchased in NJ and built in Indiana but the "port" where final assembly and accessories are installed was Boston.
Occasionally there are some exceptionally good ebay deals, like those of us who purchased OEM remote starters for $100. But that's the exception not the rule.

[upflying]

Biggest regret was paying a dealer $150 for a 7500 mile service. Otherwise my buying expereince was all good. I bought and ordered it over the internet, never set foot in the dealer except to sign papers and take delivery. Never bring a trade-in and have your financing arranged before visiting the dealer.

[bradze]

not getting limited trim was a mistake. i probably should've gotten a 6cyl as well

[SubiTank]

Ordering '13 3.6R OB with cargo compartment separator (bars) was a mistake. It is not an easy on / off thing, thus will not get much use at all. Wheel arch moldings, side moldings, bumper protector, all weather mats, auto dimming mirror was a right decision. 3.6R engine was the right choice for me. I love how this beast accelerates and drives. No moon roof, no navigation, no eyesight was another right choice for me. Leather seats was absolutely right choice too.

[FLHRSI]

Originally Posted by Michaelcpa

For those of us nearing the purchase of an Outback, can those of you that have already done so tell us what you wish you would have asked the dealer before your purchase but forgot, or done differently and/or other otherwise wish you would have done before "signing on the bottom line."

Please educate us so we can make a better more informed and pleasant transaction!

I got a very good deal, but if I was to buy another one, I would order the car so that everything is installed either at the factory or the port as that is much cheaper than having the dealer install the options. Also, I would not opt for the navigation - just the leather and sunroof- I would install an aftermarket nav and radio. Lastly, there is a mountain bike club where if you are a member, you get the car 3 percent (or in that range) below invoice. I am not sure of the particulars, but you should be able to find it on here by searching.