Don’t Fall for These Sales Techniques Used by Used Car Dealers

Used car dealers can be very skilled at convincing customers to buy a car, often using various sales techniques. So if you are planning to purchase a used car, this can be daunting, especially when dealing with salespeople who are trained to use persuasive tactics to close a deal.

However, you need to be careful of the sales techniques that some used car dealerships in Louisville, KY, use to convince you to buy a car that may not be right for you.

So today, we will go through some of the most common sales techniques used by used car dealers and how to avoid falling for them. Let’s begin: 

Pressure Tactics

One of the most common sales techniques used by used car dealers is pressure tactics. This involves putting pressure on you to make a purchase, even if you are not ready or sure about the car. They may say things like, “this car won’t be here for long,” or “this is the best deal you’ll ever get.” The goal is to make you feel like you need to make a decision immediately.

How to Avoid: Remember that you are the one in control. Don’t let the salesperson pressure you into making a decision before you are ready. Take your time to think about the purchase, and just walk away if you feel uncomfortable.

The Lowball Technique

The lowball technique involves advertising a car at a very low price to attract potential buyers. However, when you get to the dealership, you find out that the car is not available or it has significant defects that will cost you more money to fix. The agent will then try to sell you a different car at a higher price.

How to Avoid: Always do your research before going to a dealership. Check the prices of similar cars in the market, and read reviews to know what to expect. When you get to the dealership, ask to see the car you are interested in before discussing any price or financing options.

The Upsell

Another common sales technique used by used car dealers is upselling. This involves convincing you to buy a more expensive car than you intended. The seller may say things like, ” by investing a few more dollars, you can get a better model” or “this car has all the features you need and more.”

How to Avoid: Stick to your budget and the type of car you are looking for. Don’t be tempted to buy a more expensive car just because the salesman says it’s a better deal. Remember that you are the one who knows what you need and can afford.

The Bait and Switch

The bait-and-switch technique involves advertising a car at a low price to attract customers. When the customer gets to the dealership, they are told that the car is unavailable or has already been sold. The vendor will then try to sell the customer a different car at a higher price.

How to Avoid: Always ask if the car you are interested in is available before going to the dealership. If the car is not available, don’t let the salesperson persuade you to buy a different car that you didn’t intend to purchase.

The Payment Shuffle

The payment shuffle is a sales technique used by used car dealerships where the sales clerk will focus on the monthly payments rather than the total cost of the car. They may offer you a low monthly payment but with a longer loan term, which means you will end up paying extra interest over time.

How to Avoid: Always consider the total cost of the car, including the interest and any additional fees. Don’t be fooled by a low monthly payment if it means paying more in the long run.

The “Price is Only Valid Today” Tactic

Another common sales technique used by used car dealers is to create a sense of urgency by saying that the price of the vehicle is only valid for today. This can make the buyer feel like they need to make a decision quickly, even if they are not completely comfortable with the price or the car itself.

How to Avoid: Don’t let yourself be rushed into a purchase. Take your time to think things over and do your research on the car and its price. If the price is indeed fair and within your budget, there’s a good chance it will still be available tomorrow or the next day.

The “Limited Time Offer” Tactic

Similar to the “price is only valid today” tactic, the “limited time offer” tactic is used to create pressure and a sense of urgency in the buyer. Used car dealers may say that they have a special promotion going on in Louisville, KY, but that it will only last for a limited time.

How to Avoid: Take a step back and consider the actual value of the offer. Do your research and find out if it is a legitimate deal or just a marketing ploy. Don’t feel pressured and make quick decisions based on a limited-time offer alone.