I buy a new truck every 1-2 years. Just from my experience, the best incentives come out around the 4th of July. In March & September, the dealers seem more motivated to sell though.

I avoid the A & X plans as they tie the dealer's hands. I start negotiating at invoice, minus rebates and demand the 0% financing. Invoice is about 9% under MSRP. What usually ends up happening is that the dealer will put me down for Ford's 0% financing on the paper work and suck up the amount of the rebates. Then, I hit them for another $1-2K off. If I have a trade-in, I demand full KBB retail price. Sometimes I get it, sometimes I settle for Private Party value. Don't get roped into "what kind of payment can you afford" game. Deal strictly in out the door price when negotiating.


I typically buy $40K+ trucks, so I have more room to negotiate than you do on a $27K truck. Definitely shop around. Some dealers can deal, others have too much over head and can't deal with you. Dealers swap trucks all the time. Find a good dealer and don't be afraid to ask them to fetch a truck for you from another lot.

 

Just picked up 08 XLT, 5.4, 4 wheel drive, with Lariat package, all options including sirius, nav, backup cam, heated seats, .......paid $30,000 with zero finance for five years.
Located in New England.
Think I got a heck of a deal
(Included a 10 year old car as trade in--had book of $2,000)

so, true price of $32,000, sticker was $41,000