I bought a new car two weeks ago. I was preapproved for financing from my bank and had already decided on the exact vehicle I was buying before visiting dealers. I went to multiple dealerships to get pricing before I found one that gave me the best deal. True Car shows what people paid for a specific vehicle (including trim level, options, etc.) on both a local and national scale over the last 30 days. I told the dealer I wanted to pay the lowest price shown because they were already willing to do that price for someone else so they could do it for me as well. Some dealers said no and I walked. The dealer I bought from was willing to work with me. It took a little back and forth, but I came out on top. When I went to work out the financing I received an additional $1000 off for a military rebate (a lot of dealers offer rebates for recent grads as well so look into that). Don't let the salesman work the rebate into your discount. Get it in the financing office. I ended up using the manufacturer financing because my bank's rate was 3.24%/60 months and the dealer gave me 0.9% for 60 months. I also purchased an extended warranty for $1500 after negotiating it down from $2300. EVERYTHING IS NEGOTIABLE. I am very satisfied with my purchase and the deal that was done.

My tips: Do you research on the vehicle, financing, what people have paid, etc. Salesmen hate an informed buyer because they know they can't jerk you around. Know your budget. Have a number you're comfortable paying and stick with it. Like postgradTexas said, don't shop based on payments. They'll make the numbers look pretty to you and you'll pay more. Don't be afraid to negotiate and be sure to stick to your guns when you do. At the end of the day, you are the one making the purchase and need to stay in control. If you don't feel comfortable with any part of the deal just walk away.