While not all car dealers out there are out to get you, it can be tough to separate the unscrupulous dealers from trustworthy ones. Here’s how to make sure you don’t end up doing business with a dodgy dealer:
Check the car thoroughly
Do a visual inspection of the car. Be thorough about it. Examine the car for any tell-tale signs of wear and tear, engine problems or that it’s been involved in a major car accident. Are the doors aligned? Are there any dents? Look at everything.
Look into the interiors
Don’t be taken in by the shiny, brand-new appearance of a car. It might look like a winner on the outside, but the dealers might be trying to compensate for lousy interiors. Keep your eyes peeled for rips in the seat or cracks or even stains. If the upholstery is brand new, though, don’t take that at face value. It might be a handy way to cover up some water damage. By assessing the inside of the car, you’ll have a better idea if it’s the right one for you or not.
Don’t fall for too good to be true deals
No matter how many times people hear about ‘too good to be true deals,’ plenty still fall for the cliché. Don’t be one of them. If the financing seems to promise too many things at once, you might be signing up to pay for interest charges that are well above the line. Shop around first, says Money Crashers. This should help you identify better rates out there.
Walk away from pushy staff
Good car dealers provide you with options that match your budget and needs. So be wary of pushy salespeople who try to force you to do otherwise. Stick to your guns if they try to force you into buying a make or model that’s well above your budget. If they’re too aggressive, just say no and walk away.
