So true. I spent some time as a car salesperson. It was a real education. The things salespeople are allowed to do to their customers is amazing. It’s almost like you can just reach in someone’s pocket and take their money.
But a savvy shopper can avoid, or at least minimize, the hassles. You have to keep in mind, it’s YOUR money. DO NOT let the salesperson take control. They are trained to do this. “Lead the customer around by the nose” is what I was taught.
I know people claim they were “manipulated” etc., but that only happens if you ALLOW it. I used to feel sorry for people who get taken, but now I know they get taken because they allow themselves to be taken. DON’T DO IT.
If you don’t like what’s happening with the salesperson, walk out the door, get in your car, and drive away. Oh, wait, you can’t, because you were foolish enough to give someone the keys to your car, and now the keys have been misplaced, and you’re stuck at the dealership.
Seriously, if you feel even slightly uncomfortable, complain! Just say, “Forget it,” and head for the door. You do NOT have to sit there and be abused, manipulated, or jerked around. YOU, the customer, should be in control, but unless you demand to be in control, you will not be.
I’ve purchased a few cars from dealers since the time I worked as a car salesperson. It’s a tedious process, but I’ve always gotten the car I wanted at the price I wanted to pay because I did my homework ahead of time and I did NOT budge on the price I was willing to pay.
You have to offer a fair price, and be willing to walk away without a car if they won’t accept it. If the price you are willing to pay is, indeed, fair, they WILL accept it, eventually. It will take some time, but if you stick to your position you will prevail.
Good luck to all you car shoppers.