I have noticed that the invoice dealers show me does not agree 100% with those invoices from kbb / edmunds, etc.
They actually do agree on all amounts, except two items: the two invoices I have seen at dealerships had two charges on there that the invoice from kbb etc does not have:
Fuel Charge $124.92
ADV Assessment $558

The thing is that it's the EXACT same amount at both dealers. That makes me think that they did not just make that up.

Has anybody else seen this?

 

Yes, I've seen it but only with smaller dealerships. Larger dealerships consider it part of doing business and don't charge the customer directly. Of course, ALL dealerships find other ways to indirectly charge for things like this...

Negotiate them out or find a different dealership. Best of luck!

 

The fuel charge and advertising assessment are actual charges that Ford passes on to the dealer. They represent the fuel that Ford is "supposed" to put in vehicles and the average charge based on units produced for Ford's national advertising. Those are the ads featuring Mike Rowe that you see all over the tube...and the print ads you see in newspapers and magazines.

 

Thanks!
That brings up another question: I got a $750 "private cash" coupon which expires on 12/10/2011. Since I am ordering a 2012, I am pretty sure the truck won't be here by 12/10. Can I use this coupon on the day of ordering, or can the dealer "lock in" that rebate when I order the truck?
I was told today btw that the original incentive on the 2012's will be $1,000, plus $500 for financing with Ford credit.

Thanks a lot for any information!

 

No...you must take delivery before the coupon expires.

 

BK swoops in to save the day. I'd rep you, but I'm locked down right now.

 

Ok, got a quick update here:
The Fuel and Adv charges seem to be coming from Ford, but apparently there is a way around them. I just ordered my truck, and got it for $200 over invoice, and by invoice I mean the invoice without these two charges.

I think you are semi right here, at least if what the dealer said today is correct. I pulled out the email I have gotten from Ford after we were done with the order, and asked because the expiration is 12/10. This of course is cutting it short. The dealer said he just did something like this with another customer to get him the discount: apparently I can come in again sometime after the VIN has been generated, and I can officially buy the truck. Basically get all the paperwork done, and that way he can lock in the rebate on that date.
Generally you are correct, you are supposed to use the coupon on the day you get the truck.