There’s a reason some car salesmen are referred to as sharks.
On the surface, they appear friendly, non-threatening, and like they’re pulling out all the stops to help you. But you can’t help but wonder what lies beneath. What are they trying to sneak past you or pull over your eyes?
Here are three examples of some of the not-so-trustworthy tactics used by other car dealers:
1. The “Focus on the Payment” Tactic
If one of the first things out of the salesperson’s mouth is “How much of a monthly payment are you looking for?,” then you know this is the road they’re likely going down.
A smaller monthly payment doesn’t mean you’ll be paying less in the long run. Quite the contrary, actually. The dealer may try to stretch the term out pretty far in order to get you the payment you want, but in the end you’ll still be overpaying for the vehicle.
You don’t want to look back on your contract and think, Hey, I didn’t agree to pay this much for the car! So don’t have tunnel vision where your payment is concerned. Look at all the numbers, including the total amount.
2. The Old “Bait and Switch” Tactic
Some car dealers will practically do anything to get you to their lot. The thought process is that once you’re there, they can convince you to make a purchase.
One of the shadiest ways to lure people in is to bait them with a lie. They may tell you there’s a certain car on the lot at a shockingly low price.
But when you arrive to check it out, would you believe it but someone JUST bought it before you got here. Sorry about that. Since you’re already here, why not take a look at some other vehicles you might like…
Nope, we don’t believe it. Once you realize that deal probably never existed, you see how this tactic is just so wrong.
3. The “Wait ‘Em Out” Tactic
Sometimes a car deal comes down to a battle of wills. Who’s going to give in first, tap out, wave the white flag?
Newsflash: The dealership is hoping it’ll be you.
You may come in all ready with your information, prices, figures, and an idea of what you want, but then they drag out the process, making you wait and wait. So now that you’re tired, exhausted, and just “over it,” they’re hoping they can get you to just sign anything to get out of there.
They’re hoping you won’t care anymore about the figures and details so that they can slip something past you.
Don’t fall for this tactice! Go in prepared and watch out for these dealership shenanigans.
Or come to Bryant Motors instead — where you won’t have to deal with these tricks. Whether you’re looking for a new or used car, we offer a completely transparent car buying experience from the moment you step foot in our doors. That’s one of the many reasons why we’re Central Missouri’s preferred Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram dealer.
Come ride with the people you trust!
