In California’s auto market, consumers sometimes encounter a significant issue: car dealers changing the advertised price of a vehicle. This practice, which can occur both online and at physical dealerships, is more than just a pricing discrepancy—it’s considered a form of financing scam.
There are two common scenarios where this happens:
- Online advertisements showing one price, but the dealership quoting a higher price in person.
- Window stickers on the lot displaying a price that the dealer then refuses to honor.
Both situations are problematic because dealers are legally obligated to sell at their advertised prices. When a dealer increases the price after attracting a customer with a lower advertised price, it can have serious financial implications for the buyer.
The impact goes beyond the initial purchase price. A higher selling price leads to larger loan amounts and increased interest payments over time. This can result in significantly higher costs for the buyer throughout the life of their auto loan.
For California consumers, it’s important to be aware of this issue when car shopping. Understanding your rights and recognizing these practices can help you make informed decisions and potentially avoid financial harm when purchasing a vehicle.
The Financial Impact of Price Changes
When a dealer increases the price of a car beyond what was advertised, it doesn’t just affect your initial purchase. The real impact is felt in your long-term financial commitments. Here’s why:
- Higher Monthly Payments: An increased purchase price leads to larger monthly payments, stretching your budget more than you planned.
- Increased Total Cost: Over the life of your auto loan, you could end up paying thousands more than you would have at the original advertised price.
- Extended Loan Terms: To keep payments manageable, you might be pushed into a longer loan term, increasing the total interest you’ll pay.
If you find yourself in this situation, there may be options available. California law provides protections for consumers against such practices. In many cases, it’s possible to:
- Reverse the deal
- Recover your down payment
- Get reimbursed for other costs related to the purchase
The goal is to return you to your financial position before the purchase, allowing you to start fresh and find a car from a dealership that honors its advertised prices.
Remember, if a car dealer changes the price after advertising it, you have rights. It’s important to keep all documentation related to the advertised price and your purchase. This information can be crucial if you need to address the issue legally.
Protecting Your Rights as a Car Buyer
If you’ve experienced a situation where a car dealer changed the price after advertising it, you’re not alone. This practice affects many California consumers, and it’s important to know that you have options.
At Consumer Action Law Group, we specialize in addressing these auto fraud cases. Our team can:
- Review your situation to determine if you have a valid claim
- Explain your rights under California consumer protection laws
- Outline potential steps to address the issue with the dealership
We offer initial consultations to discuss your case. During this conversation, we can help you understand your options and the potential for recovering costs related to the fraudulent transaction.
Remember, the law is designed to protect consumers from unfair practices. If you believe you’ve been affected by a dealership changing a car’s price after advertising it, reaching out to learn about your rights is a smart first step.
For more information or to discuss your specific situation, feel free to contact our office. We’re here to help California car buyers navigate these complex issues and work towards fair resolutions.
