The Dealership
Playbook
Exposed.
Dealers are trained professionals. They use the same tactics on thousands of buyers. It's time you knew exactly what they know.
The Cost of Not Knowing
Knowledge is literally worth thousands.
Where Are You in the Car Buying Process?
Get personalized guidance based on your situation
Just Starting Research
Learn the landscape before you even think about visiting a dealer.
Read the Full Guide →Buying Soon
Get your checklist ready and know exactly what to do.
Get the Checklist →At the Dealer NOW
Red flag detector & instant scripts for your phone.
Open Red Flag Tool →Already Bought
Check if you got a fair deal and know your options.
Review Your Deal →It's You vs. Trained Professionals
The average person buys a car every 6 years. Dealers sell hundreds per month. They've seen every negotiation tactic, every objection, and they know exactly how to turn each one into profit.
Trained Salespeople
Weeks of training specifically on how to maximize profit from every customer.
Psychological Tactics
Deliberate strategies designed to create urgency, confusion, and emotional decisions.
Hidden Numbers
Complex math that obscures the true cost and makes comparison impossible.
The Infamous "Four Square"
This is their most powerful weapon. Here's how they use it against you:
By mixing all four numbers, dealers can "give" you wins in one area while taking MORE in others. You think you're winning—they know you're not.
Most Dangerous Dealer Tactics
These are the tricks that cost buyers the most. Click any card to learn how to protect yourself.
Yo-Yo Financing
You drive home with your new car. Days later, they call: "Financing fell through." Now they demand worse terms or the car back.
Payment Packing
Products you never asked for are secretly added to your payment. The monthly barely changes, but you pay thousands more.
The F&I Office
You think you're done negotiating. Then they send you to "Finance." This is where dealers make their biggest profits.
Monthly Payment Focus
"What monthly payment fits your budget?" Sounds helpful—it's designed to hide the total cost by stretching your loan.
Trade-In Lowball
Their first offer on your trade-in is always low. They're betting you don't know your car's real value.
Junk Fees & Add-Ons
Nitrogen tires ($199), VIN etching ($299), fabric protection ($499)—high-profit items with almost no real value.
Arm Yourself
Use these tools to prepare before you visit any dealership.
True Cost Calculator
See what that "affordable" monthly payment really costs you over time.
Lease vs Buy
Compare total costs and find out which option actually makes sense.
Word-for-Word Scripts
Know exactly what to say in every situation. Copy, paste, and negotiate.
Printable Checklist
Take this to the dealership. Never forget a crucial step.
Dealer Scenario Simulator
Practice responding to real dealer tactics before you face them. Interactive scenarios teach you exactly what to say.
How Dealer-Proof Are You?
Take our 15-question quiz to test your knowledge. Find out if you're ready to negotiate or if you need to study up first.
Start the QuizTakes about 5 minutes • No sign-up required
Golden Rules
Remember nothing else? Remember these.
Get Pre-Approved First
Visit your bank or credit union BEFORE the dealership. Knowing your rate gives you leverage and protects you from financing scams.
Negotiate Out-the-Door Price
Never discuss monthly payments first. Always negotiate the total out-the-door price including ALL taxes, fees, and add-ons.
Be Willing to Walk Away
Your most powerful tool is your feet. If a deal doesn't feel right, walk out. They often call you back with better terms.
Slow Down the Process
Dealers want you to decide fast. Take your time. Sleep on it. The deal will still be there tomorrow—or a better one will.