Used cars can often come with unexpected surprises that leave buyers in a bind. In Atlanta, many consumers have fallen victim to high sticker prices, mechanical failures, and sky-high interest rates. Channel 2 consumer advisor Clark Howard warns of the dangers of going into a dealership without a plan. Uncover the Truth About Used Car Dealerships
Section 1: Sticker Price Surprises
Used car sticker prices can often double or even triple without buyers realizing it until they drive off the lot. Jennifer Hambrick's experience is a prime example. "The car started going downhill. It started shaking on me. Start pulling back from me," she said. Within 30 minutes or less, her transmission dropped. Adriana Parks also faced similar issues. She took the 2015 Impala she bought at Certified Motors in Mableton back after being told the issues were resolved, but the check engine light came back on hours later. She was told all sales are final, but when the car was taken to Cooper Lake Automotive, owner Bill Rimmer found that the battery was bad and the car would prevent her from passing emissions.Section 2: Mechanical Failures and Rental Costs
Mechanical failures are a common problem. Hambrick bought her car from Motorvation Cars in Clayton County and within months, it stopped running completely. She was forced to use Uber every day just to get to work. "I got five kids. It’s a struggle back both to and from work. It’s a struggle on where I stay, you know? So it’s a lot," she said. Jordan Sammons spent thousands on a rental car waiting for Sports and Imports to switch out the transmission on the 2013 Ford Escape she bought earlier this year. "So far, as of today, I have spent almost $2,500," she said.Section 3: High Interest Rates and Buyer Precaution
Each of these women financed at the dealership and has interest rates over 25%. Consumer attorney T. Michael Flinn said potential buyers need to research businesses thoroughly before stepping foot on the lot. "I think the most important thing is knowing what the price of the car should be," he said. Clark Howard advises getting pre-approved for a loan at a credit union or a bank before sitting on a dealer lot to eliminate bad loan problems. Also, make a deal for any vehicle subject to having it inspected by a mechanic of your choosing.Channel 2 Action News has learned that Certified Motors is currently under investigation by the state attorney general and has since changed its name to Automotive One LLC. Parks returned her Impala because she could not afford the insurance and car payments.©2024 Cox Media Group
