Buying a new car is an exciting experience, but unfortunately, not all dealers operate with honesty and integrity. Consumers need to be aware of common dealer practices that could potentially leave them stuck forever with a lemon. In today’s post, we’ll show you some red flags to watch out for when dealing with automobile dealerships.

Failure to Disclose Defects

Some unscrupulous dealerships will intentionally hide known issues or conveniently forget to mention them during negotiations. Why would they do such a thing? Well, it’s simple economics for them. By withholding information about defects, they can sell vehicles at higher prices and maximize their profits while leaving unsuspecting buyers dealing with expensive repairs. So, how can you protect yourself against this sneaky tactic? First and foremost, always conduct thorough research on the make and model of the car you’re interested in purchasing. Look for any recurring problems reported by other owners online or check if there are any recalls issued for that particular model.

Presenting a Pristine Property

A warranty provides peace of mind, ensuring that any unexpected repairs will go under the manufacturer’s or dealer’s coverage. However, some dealers engage in unfair practices by misrepresenting the extent of warranty coverage. One common tactic involves verbally promising extensive warranty coverage but providing misleading documentation that contradicts those promises. This can leave consumers feeling frustrated and deceived when they discover that certain repairs are not actually covered. It’s crucial for buyers to thoroughly review all paperwork related to a vehicle purchase, including the terms and conditions of any warranties offered. Additionally, it’s advisable to request written confirmation from the dealer regarding any verbal promises made about warranty coverage.

Refusal to Provide Repair Documentation

Refusing to provide repair documentation is not only frustrating but can also be a violation of lemon law regulations. It’s essential for consumers to keep detailed records of any repairs or maintenance performed on their vehicles. This includes invoices, receipts, and service reports. Without proper documentation, it becomes challenging for owners to prove that repeated attempts were made to fix a recurring issue. Dealerships may try to dodge responsibility by claiming they never received complaints or attempted repairs. If you encounter resistance from a dealership when asking for repair documentation, don’t be deterred. Be persistent in demanding these records as they are crucial evidence should you need legal recourse under lemon laws. It’s also a good idea to hire a competent lawyer from Amar Law Group for this issue.

Misleading Advertising

When it comes to buying a car, the last thing you want is to be swayed by misleading advertising. Unfortunately, some dealerships use deceptive tactics to lure in customers and make a sale. It’s important to stay vigilant and spot these unfair practices under the Lemon Law. One common form of misleading advertising is exaggerating the features or capabilities of a vehicle. You might see flashy ads claiming that a certain car has “unmatched performance” or “the latest technology,” only to find out later that those claims were greatly exaggerated. In addition, watch out for false promises of special financing options or discounts. Some dealerships may advertise zero percent APR financing or huge cash-back offers, but when you go in person, they’ll tell you that you don’t actually qualify for those deals.

Forcing Unnecessary Add-Ons

When purchasing a new vehicle, it’s also not uncommon for dealers to try and upsell you on various add-ons. While some of these may be legitimate and useful, others can feel like unnecessary extras designed solely to increase the final price tag. It’s important to stay vigilant and recognize when a dealer is trying to push these add-ons onto you. Remember, as a consumer, you have every right to question any added features or services being offered by the dealership. Don’t hesitate to ask for detailed explanations regarding their necessity and value before making any decisions.