Americans have a love-hate relationship with car dealerships. On the one hand, they love working with knowledgeable staff who can help them get the right vehicles at good prices. On the other hand, they hate the pressure tactics and dishonesty of some people in the industry.
Are you in the market for a vehicle? If so, it’s key to know which car dealerships to avoid.
Here are 16 warning signs that you’re dealing with a shady car dealer and should go elsewhere.
They Rush Through the Process
No one wants to feel rushed into a buying decision. If the car dealership wants you to make quick decisions and won’t give you time to mull over things, that’s a bad sign. They shouldn’t be more interested in taking your money than getting you into the right car.
They Tell You to Ignore Signs on the Dashboard
Another telltale sign you’re at the wrong dealership is if a car salesperson tells you to ignore signs on the dashboard. If there’s a check engine light or some other symbols, don’t ignore them. You might want to bring an OBD2 scanner to check for trouble codes.
They Keep Ignoring Your Requests
Some car salespeople are intentionally hard of hearing. If you tell them your budget, they might completely disregard that and recommend makes and models exceeding your budget. If talking to dealership staff is like talking to a brick wall, find another place to patronize instead.
They Are Full of CAPA
While checking out some used vehicles, don’t ignore any CAPA stickers. CAPA is the acronym for Certified Automotive Parts Association. Any car with CAPA stickers has undergone collision repairs. Some dealers will charge a kingly sum for a car that’s had a rough life.
They Want Your Trade-In Vehicle for Nothing
Don’t let a car dealership offer you bargain-basement value for your trade-in vehicle. If they insist on an embarrassing trade-in value, sell your car privately. Also, beware of car dealers that will, out of nowhere, agree to pay more for your trade-in car. They sometimes inflate the offer and then take it back by charging you more for the vehicle you wish to buy.
They Try to Limit Your Test Drive
Some car dealers try to discourage consumers from taking vehicles on test drives or limit the amount of time they can put the cars through their paces. Go elsewhere if you encounter problems checking out the car properly, which includes taking it on the road.
They’re Pushing Extended Warranties Like Their Lives Depend on It
Extended car warranties can cost an average of $1,300 to $4,600. There’s nothing wrong with them if you know what you’re getting. However, some car dealerships leave no stone unturned in forcing extended warranties onto their customers. If you do get one, read the fine print first.
They Focus Too Much on the Monthly Amount and Not Enough on the Full Purchase Price
Some sneaky car salespeople focus on getting consumers the monthly payment amount they want. While that’s fine and dandy, it’s also vital to communicate the full purchase price. A sneaky dealer can get you a low monthly payment by extending the length of the car loan. So, you may get the monthly payment you want but end up paying more for the car.
They Won’t Show You a Carfax Report
If a car dealer won’t show you a Carfax report, that’s a major red flag. A Carfax report shows the vehicle’s history, including any accidents reported to the previous owners’ insurers. Such a report isn’t a substitute for having the car checked by an auto mechanic. But it can offer information you can use to make a good buying decision.
They Won’t Budge on the Sticker Price
Don’t fall for the lie that the sticker price is the lowest allowable price. Of course, you should negotiate in good faith. But so, too, should the car dealership. If they won’t budge, neither should you.
They Discourage You From Getting a Vehicle Inspected by an Independent Mechanic
A reputable car dealer won’t hesitate to let you get a vehicle inspected by an independent mechanic. They want you to be happy with your purchase and have nothing to hide. But not so with a shady car dealership. They may fight tooth and nail to discourage you.
They Pull the Bait-and-Switch Trick
If a car dealer advertises a car, claims the vehicle is no longer there when you go to the lot, and then recommends something else that’s more expensive, that’s a bait and switch. Don’t spend a dime at such a shaft car dealer.
They Make You Feel Uncomfortable
Get up and leave if you don’t feel comfortable at a car dealership. You don’t have to patronize anyone, so don’t feel you must stay. Whether because of how you’re treated or a gut feeling, get up and go if you want to.
They Want a Ridiculously Low Price for a Used Car
You might think it’s your lucky day if a car dealer has a super-low price tag on a used vehicle. Remember, however, that not all that glitters is gold. The low price might be a smoke screen to get you to buy the car asap without asking too many questions. It may be glorified hoopty.
They Have Questionable Reviews
Online reviews are a great way to learn about retailers. While some reviewers complain about everything and anything, don’t ignore a flood of negative comments about a car dealer in your area.
They Want to Sell You Ridiculous Extras
Be careful if a car salesperson tries to get you to buy a bunch of extras. The problem is they’ll often include them in the contract without telling you. So, you need to be vigilant and get them to remove things you may not want or can get cheaper elsewhere.
These extras often include upgraded floor mats, tire and wheel coverage, window tint, rustproofing, upholstery protection, and the list goes on.
Take Your Business Elsewhere If You Face Any of These 16 Things
You have options as a consumer, so you don’t have to put up with any shenanigans from shady car dealers. Find a place that values you as a customer, and don’t give your business to charlatans.
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