"Unfortunately, while many men don't have good negotiating skills - most women definately don't. That's perhaps too blanket of a statement, but it's one that I'll stick with from my own personal observations.
I know for a fact that my wife got hosed on her last car (bought before we met). I'm also pretty sure she would have gotten taken on this last car we bought if I wasn't there (she would have bought the overpriced crap). The thing is, she's an incredibly bright and capable person. She knows a good deal when she sees it and she knows when she's being screwed with..... Except with cars."
Yes, my experience concurs with yours.
And yes, IT IS A SILLY GAME!!!!!!!