Why buying cars can feel like pulling teeth

And the dealerships hate it if you want to pay cash!

I buy slightly used cars or trucks. I set the tempo by saying look I have a needy wife and 6 kids so I don't have much money. I like that truck over there. I will you offer you $500 on the cost of that truck and we will have a deal this afternoon. I don't want to waste anyone's time. I am prepared to shop at other dealerships. I also research the trade-in value of a vehicle I want to buy.

I believe USAA can also negotiate a price on your behalf.

Go to a "One Simple Price" dealership. Use to work at one. I could get a customer from start to finish out the door in less than 2 hours. Prices almost always beat what they could negotiate at a traditional dealership for the same car. They don't like cash because they make a little money on the financing, but never turned it down!