Buying a new car should be fun and exciting. Unfortunately, there are unscrupulous car dealers out there willing to scam you just to put a few extra bucks in their pocket.
Spot delivery scams prey on the emotions and feelings of a new car buyer. Without you even realizing it, you can be pushed into overpaying for your vehicle.
You may think the paperwork and the sale are complete, but then, the dealer informs you otherwise. It’s important to recognize a potential spot delivery scam and protect yourself from a dishonest car dealer.
Here’s everything you need to know about spot delivery scams and how to avoid them.
What Is Spot Delivery?
Spot deliveries allow a consumer to purchase a vehicle the same day and drive it home. Sometimes a customer who’s looking at cars may be enticed to make a purchase on the spot.
This practice can leave those with less than perfect credit in a vulnerable position. With a spot delivery, the dealership begins the loan application and allows the customer to take the car before the financing is complete.
This is common when a sale is made after banking hours. In this situation, the bank doesn’t have time to review the application before the deal is made. When they do review it, they may decline the application.
When this happens, the buyer may have to return to the dealership to complete a new loan application with less favorable terms. This is not always a scam, but in many cases, it is.
The spot delivery scam occurs when the dealer knows the buyer will not be approved and then asks for a higher monthly payment, higher sales price, higher interest rate, or a co-signer.
Problems With Spot Deliveries
Some dealers use spot deliveries to finalize the sale in a deceptive way. They know when a buyer drives away with a new car, they become attached to it.
Whether the car dealer made a mistake on the contract or there’s a problem with financing or credit, the deal can fall through. In this situation, buyers may agree to less than favorable terms to keep their vehicle.
Dealers sometimes threaten to repossess or report a vehicle stolen unless the buyer comes in to sign a new finance agreement. If the buyer offers to return the vehicle instead, the dealer may threaten them with steep rental rates or a fee for wear and tear.
Protect Yourself from Spot Delivery Scams
Going back and forth between an approval, a denial, and the dealership is yo-yo financing. You don’t have to fall prey to a yo-yo scam. Protect yourself.
To avoid a spot delivery scam, never drive away from the dealership with a new car until everything is finalized. This includes verifying you’ve signed the sales contract, the financing, and the title.
Don’t put money down until your financing has been approved. Don’t drive away until you are certain all documents are signed and the deal is done.
Even better, obtain your own financing separate from the car dealership and avoid a possible scam.
Contact a Consumer Attorney
Buying a new car should be an amazing experience. It only takes one dishonest car dealer to turn a fun experience into a nightmare.
If you think you’ve fallen prey to spot delivery scams, it’s a good idea to discuss your situation with a consumer attorney.
With over 20 years of experience in Florida law, attorney Jonathan D. Schwartz will personally evaluate your case and determine the best course of action. Contact Jonathan D. Schwartz today to schedule a consultation or click here to learn more about the Florida Lemon Law.