When buying a car from a dealer, is it ok to request to work with a different salesman?

Question

We got stuck with a bad salesman who was supposed to be working on an 84 month loan and didn't bother to tell us he had changed it to 72, didn't give us copies of our drafts and ditched without saying goodbye and sent someone else out to finish with us. I really didn't like him and we haven't signed any final paperwork yet. Is it ok to request that we work with someone else next time?

Answer 1

Yes you can request a different sales person.  Especially in today auto market.  The dealership wants nothing more than to sell you a car and they do not care if it takes a dozen sales persons to get you to buy.

What will usually happen is the first salesman gets half the commission and the last salesman who gets you to sign gets the other half.  Anyone in between is out of luck.  

Also in today slow car sales market - do not be afraid to demand what you want.  They might not be able to do it, but stick to your guns and do not take their first counter offer.  You will be amazed at how much they will negotiate.  

And make sure to check the web, you can usually find invoices there and information about the cost of the vehicle your purchasing.  Also you can find loans that might better meet your needs.  Do not be afraid NOT to use the dealerships financing.  

Finally one last thing based on your statement - if you were happy with the payment why not take the 72 months instead of the 84?  You save money in the long run and own it out right a year earlier.

Answer 2

Honestly, I've never heard of an 84 month term, even on a new car. Most max out at 72. With most dealerships, you're with a salesman for the meet and greet and the car demo, but someone else (the F&I department) does the actual paperwork, like the loan agreement, any additional warranties, etc.

Talk to the sales manager and explain the situation. If he doesn't get you to a different salesman or work the deal himself, go buy somewhere else. It's your money until you sign on the dotted line.

Answer 3

From my experience, the initial sales guy doesn't work with numbers, he's just the messenger boy/girl between you and the sales manager, who actually has the numbers. I'm not excusing his behavior or course, no sales guy should do this. They should always stand by you ready to answer questions, etc...If i were in your shoes, I would take that same deal and go to completely different dealership. The car purchasing experience has to be positive from the beginning, otherwise, you will have a feeling of resentment and anger every time you deal with that dealership.