Car salespeople are known for their persuasive tactics, but some of these tactics may be more deceptive than helpful for the buyer. In this article, Bankrate outlines seven secret tactics that car salespeople use to try to get customers to make a purchase.
One common tactic is the “four-square” technique, which involves dividing the purchase into four categories: price, down payment, trade-in value, and monthly payment. This technique can be confusing for buyers, as it makes it difficult to compare different offers from different dealerships.
Another tactic is the “low-ball” offer, where a salesperson offers an extremely low price to entice the buyer, but then later raises the price with additional fees and charges. Buyers should be wary of any offer that seems too good to be true.
Salespeople may also try to pressure buyers into making a quick decision, with the implication that the price may not be available for long. This can be a red flag, as it may indicate that the salesperson is trying to push a sale before the buyer has had a chance to do their research or consider other options.
Other tactics include promoting add-ons and warranties that may not be necessary, and “padding” the contract with unnecessary charges and fees. Buyers should carefully review any contracts and be aware of what they are paying for.
To avoid falling prey to these tactics, buyers should do their research ahead of time, including researching the make and model they are interested in, as well as the typical prices for that vehicle in their area. They should also be prepared to negotiate, and not be afraid to walk away if they feel uncomfortable with the salesperson or the deal being offered.
Overall, buyers should be aware that car salespeople have their own interests in mind, and may not always have the buyer’s best interests at heart. By doing their research and being cautious, buyers can ensure that they are getting a fair deal on their new car.
BoweryJE22
Preston, good post, it is crazy to think there are people trained to take advantage of people and their hard-earned cash. This type of thing is a huge reason why I have enjoyed this class so much. We should be good stewards of peoples’ money and respectful of them. We’re not here to trick people into paying more than they need or to purchase something that isn’t right for them. The concepts discussed in class are not to deceive, but to help.
Great post-Preston This article highlights the deceptive tactics used by car salespeople to persuade buyers to make a purchase, including the “four-square” technique, low-ball offers, and pressure to make quick decisions. It’s important for buyers to do their research beforehand to avoid falling prey to these tactics, and to be aware of what they are paying for in any contracts. By being prepared to negotiate and not being afraid to walk away from a deal that doesn’t feel right, buyers can ensure that they are getting a fair deal on their new car. Overall, this article serves as a valuable reminder to buyers to be cautious and informed during the car buying process.
This article was really inetresting to hear about from you, as it sheds light on some of the secret tactics employed by car salespeople, urging buyers to be vigilant when navigating the car purchasing process. The “four-square” technique and “low-ball” offers are examples of tactics that can confuse and mislead buyers. These strategies create an information imbalance, making it difficult for customers to make informed decisions and compare offers effectively. The pressure to make quick decisions is another concerning tactic that can hinder buyers from conducting thorough research and exploring other options. Promoting unnecessary add-ons, warranties, and padding contracts with hidden charges are additional tactics that buyers should be cautious of. Diligently reviewing contracts and understanding the true costs are crucial steps to avoid falling victim to these tactics. The article emphasizes the importance of buyer preparation, including researching car models, local prices, and being willing to negotiate. It empowers buyers to take an active role in the purchasing process, encouraging them to walk away from unfavorable deals or uncomfortable salespeople. By staying informed, assertive, and skeptical of persuasive tactics, buyers can protect their interests and secure fair deals when buying a car. Overall, this article serves as a valuable reminder for buyers to approach car purchases with caution, conducting thorough research, and maintaining control over the negotiation process.