Used Car Shopping Myths

Car shopping can be intimidating. And the stigma that comes with car sales can make the experience even harder. But most of the stereotypes about car sales and sales people are myths. Here at Eddie Mercer Automotive we want to tell you the truth about used car sales and used car sales people to help YOU get the best vehicle, while still saving money.

1. Going to the dealership at a certain time of day will get you a lower price. 

This one is absolutely a myth. No matter what time of day you visit the dealership, the prices will be the same. Dealerships don't raise and lower prices throughout the day, nor do they wait until right before closing time to drop prices on vehicles. When car shopping, go to the dealership when it's convenient for your schedule and you're sure to get a great price and a great car buying experience. Which brings me to my next myth...

2. Car sales staff only care about the sale, not you.

While I obviously can't speak for every single person in car sales, I would venture to say that the VAST majority of those in auto sales are more concerned about your level of satisfaction with your purchase than just closing a deal. A dealership functions much better with a small number of happy customers versus a large number of dissatisfied customers. Our goal is not just to sell a car, but to find the perfect vehicle for each customer. If you are unsure about a vehicle, no one is going to pressure you into buying. The sale always comes second to customer satisfaction. 

3. Dealerships rip you off on trade ins.

While a dealership probably can't give you what you believe your car is worth, they will give you as much as they can on your trade. The dealership still has to turn a profit on your trade which is why many people believe they are being cheated out of their trade in vehicle. Whether your trade is sold at the dealership or sent to auction, the dealership still has to make a profit, otherwise there would be no dealership! Most of the time however, the dealership not only gives you a fair trade in value for your vehicle, but also gives you a great price on whatever vehicle you are considering purchasing. We've had circumstances where a customer was able to trade in one car for another free and clear! While this definitely doesn't happen all the time, it's just another instance of dealerships doing everything they can to give you a fair trade. 

4.  Shopping for a vehicle is boring.

While there are aspects of car shopping that can be boring, the actual act of the shopping should be fun! You are the one in control and you get to decide what you like and dislike, what will suit your needs, and what works for your budget. Our sales staff loves the challenge of finding the perfect fit for you. There's nothing better in this industry than getting to see a customer excitedly get into their new (to them!) vehicle with a huge smile on their face. 

The bottom line: Dealerships and members of the sales staff aren't out to get you. They want you to get a great deal just as much, if not more, than you do. An experienced sales staff is easy to spot with the way they treat you. No pressure, just helping you find what works for you and your unique situation.