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Can I force a car dealership to honor a price of a vehicle that was online?

Can I force a car dealership to honor a price of a vehicle that was online?

Q: How much can you realistically negotiate off a used car?

The amount you can negotiate off a used car varies based on factors like the vehicle's condition, market demand, and the dealership's pricing strategy. Generally, aiming for 10-20% off the asking price is realistic. Researching similar vehicles in your area can provide a benchmark to help you negotiate effectively.

Q: Are internet used car prices negotiable?

Yes, internet used car prices are often negotiable. While dealerships may list a price online, they typically expect buyers to negotiate. Research the vehicle's market value and be prepared to discuss your findings. This can strengthen your position and help you secure a better deal.

Full question:

A car dealership advertised a specific price on the internet. Can I force them to honor it? They claim it was an error.

Category: Consumer
Date: 04/07/2025
State: New York

Answer:

An invitation to negotiate is not an offer. An invitation to negotiate is merely a preliminary discussion or an invitation by one party to the other to negotiate or make an offer. Generally, newspaper advertisements, price quotations, and catalog prices are ordinarily just invitations to negotiate and cannot be accepted in a contractually-binding manner. No seller has an unlimited supply of any commodity and therefore cannot possibly be deemed to have intended to make a contract with everyone who sees the advertisement or seeks to accept the price offered.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What not to say to a dealership?

When negotiating with a dealership, avoid making statements that could weaken your position. Don't reveal your maximum budget upfront, as this gives the dealer leverage. Avoid saying you're desperate to buy, as this can lead to less favorable terms. Additionally, refrain from discussing other offers until you're ready to negotiate. Keeping your cards close to your chest can help you secure a better deal.

Does a retailer have to honor an advertised price?

Generally, retailers are not legally required to honor an advertised price if it was a mistake. Advertisements are typically seen as invitations to negotiate rather than binding offers. If a retailer claims the price was an error, they can often refuse to sell at that price. However, some states have laws regarding false advertising, so it's worth checking local regulations.

What is the red flag rule for car dealers?

The red flag rule for car dealers refers to warning signs that a dealership may not be trustworthy. These can include pressure tactics to rush a sale, lack of transparency about pricing, or refusal to provide a written contract. If a dealer seems evasive about terms or has a poor reputation, these are significant red flags that warrant caution.