re: Questions about trading Tundra in

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How do you know invoice amount

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There's plenty of websites out there that will give you an approximation. For example:

Colorado Invoice Pricing

Just bear in mind, these are estimations and added options may influence the final number.

I've found the best strategy is to just be brutally honest with the dealer. Outside of your home, you're making perhaps the largest purchase you will make in your lifetime.

My strategy would look something like:

a) Go on the Chevy website and build out the truck. They should have an option at the end of the "build your own" page where you can find matching vehicles nearest to your ZIP code. See what those dealers prices are on those vehicles. (Truecar is a great site for this). If one of them is lower price with the same or similar options, print it off to bring with you. The laws in each state vary regarding what incentives dealers can show to "every man" consumers so be wary of one adding in a bunch of stuff you might not qualify for.

b) Wait until the end of the month to go see the dealer. Specifically, if you can wait until the last week day in a given month, or if the last day of the month falls on the weekend, go the Monday of the following week. Dealers are stretching to hit volume numbers and you're much more likely to get a better deal.

c) Explain to the dealer that you are shopping him. There is no such thing as an empty shelf anymore thanks to the internet. If he counters with the proverbial, "well, we're the only one with this particular one." Guess what Mr. Dealer? I hear those folks in Detroit are busy right now spitting out more and I'm in no hurry and not afraid to travel for the best deal.

d) When you get to the finance office, tell the finance manager that you "decline all offers". If you are dead-set on getting an extended warranty, the factory generally offers them directly to consumers after the fact. Also be wary of financing through the dealer. Often times, banks provide finance managers with a kicker for financing X # of deals through them. This often times does not translate into the best interest rate. You can ask to see what the banks are quoting you at but the F&I manager will certainly be hesitant to show it to you. Instead, shop with your bank or local credit union to secure financing prior to showing up on the dealer lot.

Hope that helps.