Buying a car can feel like a maze of prices, fees, and promotions. Dealers often have more discounts and incentives available than they advertise, but you usually need to ask the right questions to uncover them.

Knowing which discounts to request can save you more money than just accepting the sticker price or advertised deals. It’s about being prepared and aware so you don’t leave savings on the table during your next car purchase.

Dealer invoice price discount

Knowing the dealer invoice price can give you a serious edge. This price shows what the dealer originally paid for the car.

But here’s the trick—dealers often get rebates and incentives that lower their actual cost below the invoice. If you ask about these, you might unlock a better discount than what’s listed.

Always try to see the invoice. It’s your starting point to negotiate a price closer to what the dealer really paid, not just the sticker price.

Manufacturer cash rebates

Manufacturer cash rebates are basically cash back offers from the car maker to make buying a specific model more tempting. You don’t have to jump through hoops to get them—they’re like instant savings added to your purchase.

These rebates can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the vehicle and the current promotions. Knowing when and how to ask for them can save you a good chunk off your final price.

Think of them as free money that the manufacturer is willing to give you, so don’t hesitate to bring them up during negotiations.

Loyalty or conquest incentives

If you already own a vehicle from a certain brand, you might qualify for a loyalty incentive. This means you get a discount just for sticking with the same brand when you buy or lease your next car.

On the flip side, conquest incentives reward you for switching brands. Dealers want to win you over from a competitor, so you could score a special deal if you drive a different make now.

Keep in mind, you usually can’t combine loyalty and conquest incentives. So, knowing which one applies to you can save you money.

Low-interest or 0% APR financing

You might not realize it, but dealers often have special low-interest or even 0% APR financing deals available. These offers can save you a lot on interest if you qualify, usually needing a strong credit score.

Sometimes, these deals come with stricter terms or a higher vehicle price, so it’s worth asking about your options. Knowing to ask for these financing specials gives you a better shot at driving away with a cheaper loan.

Dealer holdback savings

Dealer holdback is a hidden rebate manufacturers pay dealers after you buy a car. It’s usually 1% to 3% of the MSRP and helps dealers keep profits even when they sell below invoice.

Knowing about holdback gives you an edge in negotiations. You can offer less than invoice price because dealers still make money from holdback. Mentioning it shows you’re informed, which can lead to better deals.

Not all dealers will admit to holdback, but bringing it up can open the door to extra savings you might not get otherwise.