Don't Fall for Car Dealer Bait and Switch Tactics: Your Rights as a Consumer

Photo by Ivan Kazlouskij on Unsplash

Car buying can be an exciting experience, but it can also be frustrating and overwhelming. It's important to remember that car dealers are businesses, and they will do everything they can to make a profit. Unfortunately, some car dealers engage in unethical practices, such as bait and switch tactics, to take advantage of consumers.

What is bait and switch?

Bait and switch is a deceptive advertising practice in which a business advertises a product or service at a low price to attract customers, but then tries to upsell them to a more expensive option when they arrive.

How do car dealers use bait and switch tactics?

Car dealers use a variety of tactics to lure customers into their dealership and then try to upsell them:

One common bait and switch tactic involves advertising a car for a very low price to attract potential customers. However, once the customer arrives at the dealership, they are told that the car has already been sold or that the advertised price was a mistake. The salesperson will then try to sell the customer a more expensive car, claiming that it is a better value or that the original car was not suitable for them.
Another bait and switch tactic is to offer a car with a lot of attractive features and options in advertisements, but when the customer arrives at the dealership, they are informed that the advertised car is not available. The salesperson will then try to sell the customer a car with fewer features or options at a higher price.

How to Avoid Falling Victim to Bait and Switch Tactics

One way to avoid falling victim to bait and switch tactics is to do research beforehand. Check the dealership's reputation and reviews online, and ask friends and family for recommendations. It's also a good idea to know exactly what type of car you want and the price range you are willing to pay.

Another tip is to carefully review any advertisements or offers from the dealership before visiting. Look for fine print and read all terms and conditions carefully. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.

What are your rights as a consumer?

If you've fallen victim to bait and switch tactics at a car dealership, it's important to know your rights as a consumer. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and state consumer protection laws prohibit deceptive advertising and sales practices. If a car dealer engages in bait and switch tactics, they could be liable for false advertising, fraud, or other consumer protection violations.

As a consumer, you have the right to accurate and truthful advertising, and you have the right to expect the product or service you were promised at the price you were quoted. If a car dealer engages in bait and switch tactics, you have the right to take legal action to protect your rights and seek compensation for any damages or losses you've suffered.

What to Do if You Suspect Bait and Switch Tactics

If you suspect that a dealership is using bait and switch tactics, you should document all interactions and evidence, such as advertisements and pricing information. You can also file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

However, the best course of action is to contact a lawyer who specializes in car dealer fraud. They can help you understand your legal rights and options, and can work with you to seek compensation and justice.

Contact a Lawyer Today

If you believe that you have been a victim of bait and switch tactics or any other form of car dealer fraud, don't hesitate to contact our law firm for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys can help you understand your legal rights and options, and can work with you to seek the compensation you deserve.

At Law Office of Howard A. Gutman, our attorneys specialize in protecting consumers from bait and switch tactics in car storage facilities. We offer a free consultation to help you understand your legal options and protect your rights.

If you've been a victim of car dealer fraud or bait and switch tactics, don't wait to take action. Contact Law Office of Howard A. Gutman today for a free consultation. Our team of experienced lawyers can help you understand your rights and options, and can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.