“Unmasking Deception: 17 Shocking Car Salesman Tricks That Will Empty Your Wallet!”
Of course, there are plenty of trustworthy dealerships and honest salespeople out there. But it’s always wise to be an educated consumer and understand the strategies that some might use to try and steer you toward a less-than-stellar offer. Whether it’s inflating prices, overlooking vehicle flaws, or pushing unnecessary add-ons, these tactics can cost you a pretty penny if you’re not prepared to sidestep them.
We’ve listed some typical car salesman tactics that you should be aware of. We think this will give you the knowledge you need to recognize these strategies, counter them effectively, and negotiate a fair deal that leaves you feeling confident and satisfied with your purchase.
1. The Trade-In Offer
This tactic involves offering you a decent price for your trade-in, only to jack up the price of the new car to compensate. By making you feel like you’re getting a great deal on your trade-in, they aim to distract you from the inflated price of the new vehicle.
Always research the fair market value of your trade-in before heading to the dealership. This way, you’ll be armed with knowledge and won’t be swayed by a lowball offer.
2. The Four Square Method
This confusing tactic involves drawing a square with four quadrants representing the price of the car, your trade-in value, your down payment, and your monthly payments. The salesman then shuffles numbers between the quadrants to create the illusion of flexibility, while ultimately steering you towards a higher price.
