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The Black Friday craze has come to auto showrooms.

The Thanksgiving holiday used to be nothing special for auto sales. But since dealers have begun promoting Black Friday specials, "Thanksgiving weekend accounted for twice as many sales as any other weekend in November last year," said industry analyst Jessica Caldwell of Edmunds.com, who expects a repeat of that performance this year.

If coping with the showroom crowds seems easier than dealing with the relatives at home, you may find a few deals of up to 20 percent off 2015 models, and in one case $8,000 cash back. Most of these deals will still be available on Saturday and Sunday, but if you feel strong enough to go shopping on Black Friday itself, here is some advice from Philip Reed, senior consumer advice editor at Edmunds:

Research in advance what you think is a bargain for the model you crave. Make sure which dealerships are pushing the big discounts. Promotions can vary by region, and not all dealers take part in the manufacturers' deals. Check individual dealership websites before you go shopping. Go early. Even if you strike a deal quickly, delays are likely getting through the finance department. Don't expect lengthy negotiations. With many shoppers on the lot, sales people will be eager to move on to the next prospect. If the promoted price is indeed a good deal, be ready to go for it.

Now here is a rundown by car brand of some of the best deals to be had over the Thanksgiving weekend. Most of the biggest discounts are on 2015 models that have been on the dealer's lot for some months.

Buick: Cash back of up to $8,000 is on offer when buying 2015 models of the LaCrosse, Regal and Veran0 sedans and the Enclave SUV. Buick also is offering a lease deal on the 2015 Encore small SUV for $175 a month for two years with just $175 down if you are currently leasing a non-General Motors vehicle.

Chevrolet: Chevy is offering 20 per cent cash back on 2015 Cruze, Impala and Malibu sedans and the Camaro SS http://robertdomanko.weebly.com/blog/robert-domanko-hsbc