Out of state car buying, more hassle than its worth, or a good way to get a good deal

[weatherweenie]

I am looking into the possibility of buying a certified pre-owned car from either Lexus or Audi in the next 6-9 months.

The prices I have seen in my looking on cars.com has shown the possibility of saving as much as $4-5,000 if I buy from an out of state dealer.

I know that there will be shipping costs, or the cost of my flying to the dealer and driving the car home.

Has anyone on the boards gone through this process? If so, what was your experience? Good, bad or otherwise.

 

[Shamus13]

I've bought out of state but only a 4hr drive away. Most dealers with not charge state sales tax if you can prove out-of-state residence & you might have to pay sales tax when you register the vehicle in your state. Get a Carfax while not 100% they help. If the accident wasn't reported the Carfax won't show it. Try to make it into a mini vacation that way if you decide not to buy it isn't a completely wasted trip. Also, hit up your local dealer and see if they can get closer in price so they don't lose your business.
Word of caution buy from someone that has (or appears to have) a good reputation.

 

[PessOptimist]

Can’t say for sure but I bet the state of CO (or whichever) will want you to pay the sales tax when you register it. Seen it before.
PO