3 Red Flags You’re at the Wrong Used Car Dealership

Buying a car at a used car dealership can be fun and exciting, but if you find yourself at the wrong one, you’ll be in a world of misery.

Used car dealerships have a bad reputation. There are good ones, but there is an overwhelming amount of bad ones that are out to scam you out of all you are worth. These are the ones you need to stay away from. There are signs, though, that indicate good ones versus bad ones. Knowing the signs can save your wallet from hurting in the future and make sure you leave a dealership with the car you want and a price that is fair. Speaking of price, it is often the price tag of the used cars at a dealership that is one of the first signs. If the price is too good to be true, then there are most likely hidden fees and other scams waiting ahead.

Buying a used car is a great thing to do. New cars are expensive, overrated, and hard to get. Used cars, if done right, can be bought easily and simply, but you have to know what you are doing, and you have to know which red flags to look out for at any used car dealership.

#1 Too Good to be True

When you walk into a used car dealership, you shouldn’t do so without a plan and some knowledge about the kind of cars you are interested in buying. Are you looking for a truck, a sedan, or even an SUV with All-wheel-drive? These are things to know before you step foot into that used car dealer.

If you go to a dealership that is selling used cars, and the prices of all the cars seem too good to be true, then it is probable that there is something with either the establishment or the cars themselves. Oftentimes, when a car’s price is so low, it means there is something wrong with it. Checking the Carfax report will clear this up, and if the dealership can’t offer you this service, then you should already be out the door.

#2 In a Rush

At a used car dealership, you’ll find many salesmen and saleswomen who want to sell you a car. They will sweet talk you into signing any contract because most times they cut the final sale.

If you find yourself being rushed by one of these salespeople at a used car dealer, you should take a step back and look at the bigger picture. Ask yourself: Why am I being rushed, is something wrong? When you are rushed, you won’t have the time to weigh your options. Be patient, slow down, and make sure to get the best deal on the right car for you. If they are unwilling to work with you, then you can give your business elsewhere.

#3 Check the VIN

Every vehicle has a VIN (vehicle identification number). You’ll be able to find this number somewhere on the car, and the dealership should also provide it on all the car’s paperwork. But, if by some chance, the VIN doesn’t match what is on the paperwork, then you should get yourself out of there as fast as you can. Something fishy is happening and you don’t want to buy a car that has a different VIN.