Can you demand proof that an advertised used car has been sold?

Question

Texas mandates that dealers include the VIN number with each advertised vehicle. I've been shopping for a used car now for some time and on more than one occasion I have been told "That car has already been sold" only to see the same car advertised a week later with the same VIN number. Can I demand proof that this car, with that specific VIN number, has indeed been sold? I'm really concerned that the practice of bait and switch is far too common and that the dealers are betting on the common populace's ignorance to not call them on it. I'm contemplating filing a complaint with the BBB, the state Attorney General's office and the FTC for false advertising. I would just like to handle it on my own if I can. Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

They do not have to give you proof that the car was sold, they could be just refusing your business by telling you it's sold.  They have every right to do that.

Now, if you were to go to the dealer with the ad, found the car, and the salesman said you couldn't buy it for the advertised price, that's different, then you have a complaint.

Just because the dealer tells you it's sold and then it shows up a week later doesn't mean anything, it could simply be that the deal died.

Move on, get over it.

Answer 2

Never thought that way.  Would be fun to watch them squirm I guess.  I just walk out, don't like being screwed with, wouldn't give them my money in any case.

Answer 3

well maybe they had already paid for that spot in the paper, they prob have to sub-mitt something in advance.

or maybe there doing because they just don't like you... they have a right to refuse business..

Answer 4

I don't believe you can get the proof you ask for for privacy reasons. However, based on my days as an ad layout boy, I would think your AG's office has an Inspector just for this. Forward proof to them and they would most likely follow up with an official inquiry.

In NJ, the scam was prevalent for a while with new car loss leaders. For example the $9999 Honda Civic that was sold even though you were waiting at the front door at 9AM. The rules were changed and so then were the practices. Now it's about the $3000 dollars in rebates no one qualifies for...

The other possibility is that the deal may have gone dead due to credit issues. My best suggestion is that if you are that worked up about it, go to the General Sales Manager, explain yourself in a business like manner, and see what they say. Maybe he'll try to make you a customer on another car that only he has the power to make a sweet deal on. "You'll catch a lot more flies with honey than vinegar...."

Otherwise, you can educate yourself to the rules of the game in Texas. Next time you look for a car you will be forewarned and forearmed.

Good Luck

Answer 5

Sounds like you're just trying to make a stink.

Keep in mind, the ads you see in newspapers and local want ads are not created yesterday. The pics and info were probably created a few weeks back. I wouldn't take it to heart. If the car's gone, it's gone.