Lies All Car Sales People Have Heard

Lying, it seems to be one of the major problems with buying a car. Unethical salesmen lie to customers, managers lie to their salesmen and customers lie when negotiating. You, as the consumer are at a disadvantage in this whole process because you do not do it for a living.

The real problem arises when you lie and the dealer knows it. Your negotiating power is gone, and the dealer knows it. I can't tell you how many times a customer has told me that dealer "X" has it for some crazy price, the answer back is "wow, you should get that!". They have called your bluff and you're back to square one.

Here are a few lies that customers say that all salespeople have heard and what you should say instead.

1. I have to leave to "insert random comment here"

The customer having to leave to pick up kids from school or some other sudden appointment is very common. Salesmen have heard this one more than almost all others combined. When you drop this line, you're asking for a barrage of managers and other salesman to try and stop you from leaving.

Usually customers say this when they are backed into a corner in the negotation and don't see a way out besides running. Remember, you are always in control. If the payment is too high, you agreed to a down payment you're not comfortable with or you don't feel like you're getting enough for your trade; you need to be clear about it. Being honest and sticking to your guns will always lead to a better deal for you.

2. I have to talk to my husband/wife.

This is a variation of the first one. It's the same situation. You feel like you haven't negotiated a fair deal and need an excuse to say no. Pawning it off on the significant other just makes you seem weak in the negotiation. The salesman knows that if they had input in the purchase, they would have come with you.

If you have a problem with an aspect of the deal or the vehicle itself, make yourself heard. There is nothing wrong with drawing a line in the sand for the deal you want.

3. Dealer "X" has this same car for less.

This lie has been around awhile as a way to negotiate a lower price. First off, understand the car business is a small world. Odds are that your salesman or his manager know someone at the dealership you are saying has this amazing deal. I can't tell you how many times we have called to find out the customer is lying. Also, dealers can read your credit report like a book, they can see which dealers you have been to.

If you really do have a better deal, make sure you bring paperwork with you. It's a powerful tool. If not, and you just want a better deal, focus on the aspect that you're not happy with and be upfront and honest about it.

The themes are all the same as you can see. The key to every successful negotiation is to be well prepared, be honest and stick to your guns. Don't fall into the lie trap and get the best deal possible.

#lying #negotiation #mistakes