The FTC Is Finally Cracking Down on Dealer Pricing Bullshittery

Think hidden fees, fake discounts, rebate games, mandatory add-ons, and vehicles advertised at prices you can't actually get are just part of buying a car?The FTC doesn't think so.In this episode, The Car Chick® breaks down the six dealership advertising and pricing practices the FTC says may violate federal consumer protection laws. But before we get into the legal stuff, I share a real-life dealership fiasco that happened while shopping for a military family's Ford Transit van — a deal that took three days to put together before it completely blew up over a discount that apparently didn't apply.We'll cover:The six pricing and advertising practices the FTC is targetingHidden fees, fake discounts, rebate stacking, and financing gamesWhy dealer add-on packages may be the next battlegroundWhat the FTC Act actually saysWhy the CARS Rule was overturnedWhy the FTC isn't handing out $53,088 fines left and rightHow dealership pricing transparency is improving — and where the bullshittery has migratedWhat consumers should look for before signing on the dotted line5 Things to Watch for When Car Shopping Right NowGet an out-the-door quote in writing.Do your homework on rebates, financing requirements, and add-ons.Verify the vehicle is actually available.Don't assume "transparent pricing" means "best price."If a deal looks dramatically better than every other similar vehicle, get suspicious before you get excited.ResourcesFTC Consumer Complaint Center:https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/Stay ConnectedSign up for The Straight Shift newsletter and get consumer-focused automotive news, car buying tips, and industry updates delivered straight to your inbox:www.TheCarChick.comYou can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here. Connect with LeeAnn:WebsiteInstagramFacebookYouTubeWork with LeeAnn:Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a CarCar Buying ServiceCopyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick.  All rights reserved.