What You Shouldn’t Do at a Car Dealership: 7 Things to Keep in Mind

As someone who has bought cars before, I understand how overwhelming the experience can be. Walking into a dealership with no idea of what you want can easily land you in a bad deal. But even if you do know what you are looking for, there are certain things you should avoid doing and certain tactics that salespeople will try to use on you. Here are 7 things you shouldn’t do at a car dealership.

Arriving Without a Plan

Walking into a dealership without a plan can be disastrous. Salespeople can easily tell when someone doesn’t know what they want, and they will use this to their advantage. Before going to a dealership, research the type of car that you want, the features you need, and the price range that you are willing to pay. This will give you a better idea of what to expect and help you avoid being talked into something that is not right for you.

Key Point: Be prepared and have a plan before walking into a dealership. Know what you want and what you are willing to spend.

Letting the Salesperson Steer You

Salespeople are trained to steer you towards cars that have higher commissions or ones that they need to get off their lot. Don’t get fooled by their tactics. Stick to what you know you want and don’t be swayed into something that is not for you. And don’t let them rush you into making a decision.

Pro Tip: Be firm and clear about your wants and needs. Don’t let the salesperson steer you in the wrong direction.

Discussing Trade-In Too Early

Don’t discuss your trade-in too early. Salespeople will often ask you about your trade-in to get you to focus on the value of your current car rather than the cost of the new car. Wait to discuss your trade-in until after you have agreed on a price for the new car.

• Tip: Research the value of your car beforehand so you know what to expect during negotiations.
• Tip: Consider selling your car privately instead of trading it in to get a better deal.

Giving Away Your Keys or License

Don’t give the dealership your driver’s license or your car keys until you have agreed on a deal. Some dealerships will ask for these upfront to prevent you from leaving without finalizing the deal. This can also give them access to your credit report, which they can use to lure you into a higher interest rate.

Remember: You have the right to keep your keys and driver’s license until a deal is reached.

Allowing a Credit Check

Don’t let the dealership run a credit check until you have agreed on a price for the car. Dealerships will often try to run your credit as soon as you arrive to make sure they can get you approved for financing. This can hurt your credit score and give them leverage over you during negotiations.

Tip: Consider getting pre-approved for financing before going to the dealership. This can give you bargaining power and allow you to get a better interest rate.

Making Emotional Decisions

Don’t make impulsive decisions based on emotions. Buying a car can be a big purchase, and it’s important to be as rational as possible when making decisions. Don’t let the excitement of a new car or the pressure of a salesperson push you into making a bad deal.

Tip: Take your time and don’t rush into a decision. Walk away and come back later if you need to think things over.

Signing Anything Without Reading

Never sign anything without reading it first. Dealerships can try to sneak in extra fees or changes to the deal without your knowledge. Always read any contract or paperwork thoroughly and ask questions if you are unsure about anything.

Remember: You have the right to take as much time as you need to read and understand any paperwork before signing.

In conclusion, buying a car can be intimidating, but if you go in prepared and knowledgeable about what you want, you will be able to avoid being taken advantage of. Remember to stick to your plan, be firm with the salesperson, and read all paperwork before signing. Happy car shopping!