Among other features that are changing the rules of shopping for cars online, these sites are simplifying the way prices are negotiated by providing buyers with a guaranteed "ceiling" price -- meaning the highest price they'll be asked to pay -- that can be used as a starting point in showrooms.
The moves are part of a broad push to reduce frustration on both sides of the transaction. For car buyers, the new approach means they won't be locked into a posted price or have to wait for a reply from a dealer, giving them an edge going into negotiations. Dealers, meanwhile, are working with the new Web sites to streamline the process of closing deals with customers.
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