So the situation may have worked out where I am able to buy an out of state vehicle, but it's not due to arrive yet. How do I ensure that the dealer doesn't sell it out from under me? Is this a common thing? I've seen that posted here a few times on the forum.
-
Hint: Use a descriptive title for your new message
If you're looking for help and want to draw people in who can assist you, use a descriptive subject title when posting your message. In other words, "I need help with my SUV" could be about anything and can easily be overlooked by people who can help. However, "I need help with my transmission" will draw interest from people who can help with a transmission specific issue. Be as descriptive as you can. Please also post in the appropriate forum. The "Lounge" is for introducing yourself. If you need help with your leather interior, please post in the Interior section - and so on... This message can be closed by clicking the X in the top right corner. -
How do I ensure the dealership doesn't sell an incoming car to someone else if I place a deposit on it?
- Thread author bruehlt
- Start date
BasilFawlty
Well-known member
When I ordered mine, with $1000 down, the dealer called me when they had a VIN and also sent me a screeen shot of the window sticker. When the dealer called on a Wednesday to say the car was there, I told him I'd be there in two days. I rented a one-way rental car and drove 10 hours to Plano, TX, handed them a cashers check, and headed back home that same day (spent the night in the car at a rest stop).
In your case, do not travel until you have a signed sales agreement with the dealership. Ensure that a sales manager signs off on it. Do not leave a deposit without a written and signed agreement on the price and options. You must get a manager to sign off on the deal, because some salespeople will tell you anything to get the deposit and then another salesperson will sell the vehicle before you arrive.
They can execute a buyer's agreement remotely with VIN and sales price. Then, you shouldn't have any surprises when you arrive and speak with the sales manager who signed off on the deal. Many dealerships are honest and straightforward. Some aren't.
Also, DO NOT fill out a credit app ahead of seeing the vehicle, verifying the VIN and finalizing price.
If they won't agree to those terms, then find another dealership. I wouldn't travel or leave a deposit for anything less. If you search dealership name you might find out if others had a positive experience.
______________________________
Thanks I plan on calling tomorrow - and I'll mention that.
LoboInCO97
Member
You bring up several good points that I had yet to consider. In your opinion, would you consider a "Master Vehicle Detail" sheet as a signed agreement? I ask because I put down a deposit and they sent me with a copy of this detail of the vehicle including the price on it. My salesperson has since also provided me a VIN (vehicle scheduled for delivery on 1/21 to me here CO). Should I reach out to my salesperson and start the process of creating a buyer's agreement?
It all depends on your dealership. Have you spoken with a sales manager and ensured that there will be no add-ons etc? If so, then you'll be likely be ok. Does your dealership have a good reputation?
Dealerships provide many different types of agreements - but if I were traveling far, I'd want a Buyer's Order. I initially ordered from a dealership near me, and they provided a printout with specs and price and two minor add-ons. Price was as agreed on delivery and I spoke with sales manager.
