If you’re thinking about buying a used car, how do you know if the dealership you’re visiting is a “bad one?”
Attitude
Firstly, how is their attitude? When you talk with people there, are they interested in talking with you or do they ignore you? Are they rude to you? If so, find another dealer, right? Buying a vehicle can be stressful, and you want to work with people who make your buying experience a pleasant one-- not a dreadful one.
Lines to Cross
If a dealership is willing to sell vehicles with open recalls, they’re bad-- basically, they’re willing to sell you an unsafe car or truck. Also, the dealer had better have an actual, physical title for the vehicle you’re interested in buying-- and if they don’t? Steer clear of that mess!
Clauses
Does the dealer want you to sign an “arbitration clause?” If so, an “impartial” third party will settle your potential future dispute, but keep in mind that dealers tend to get favored over buyers, especially when they’re the ones paying the actual arbitrator’s fee.
Open to Inspections
A good dealer will allow you to take the vehicle you’re interested in buying to your mechanic to have them inspect it on your behalf and give you an idea whether or not it’s a “good deal.” A bad dealer who doesn’t allow you to have your mechanic check the vehicle might be hiding something-- so, avoid working with them.
First Impressions
Just like with any business, you can get a good idea of how a dealership is doing by observing the lot to see whether or not it’s busy. If it seems like very few people shop there (“It’s NEVER busy!”) or the lot looks worn out/run down (“They just don’t seem to care about their own business. They don’t replace light bulbs in their parking lots or signage.”) then it’s time to look for a busier dealership that presents itself well to the public.
Finally, before you visit dealerships, check out their testimonials or ask for a reference.
If you're looking for a reliable dealership in the Lehighton, PA area, stop by 443 Auto Sales today.
