When a manager takes over (the T.O.)

A new salesperson or manager steps in with fresh questions and a new pitch. That doesn't erase the dealer's last written quote, your counteroffer, or your right to leave.

Washington's attorney general warns that some dealerships pressure buyers by using different salespeople, or by dragging out the talks to tire you out. Its advice: you're always free to leave and come back another day.

You don't need to know why the new person showed up. Ask what changed in writing, and compare it line by line with the last quote.

Yes. Washington's attorney general says you're always free to leave and come back another day. It also says you're bound only after you sign the final contract, with all the terms in writing. New York's attorney general says not to give in to high-pressure sales tactics. If you feel you're being manipulated, it says, don't be afraid to walk out.

Leaving is easy to undo, because you can come back. Signing isn't. The FTC says federal law doesn't require dealers to give you three days to cancel. Only some states do. See whether there's a 3-day rule where you live.

Already paid a deposit? Check what the written terms say about getting it back. Here's how car deposits work.

Pick the time you'll leave before you walk in. There's no standard time limit. You pick yours, and you leave when it comes, even if the next manager is “almost ready” with one more offer.

Financing talks running late into the night? Arizona's attorney general says to come back the next day, when you can better review and understand the papers. It also suggests giving yourself at least 24 hours to think before you sign.

• Keep the dealer's latest quote and any counteroffer you made. Ask each new person to explain any change from those numbers.
• Ask for the out-the-door price in writing, before you visit if you can. The FTC says it helps you compare offers and spot charges added at the last minute.
• Write down each number as it changes. The CFPB suggests tracking the trade-in value, interest rate, loan length, and monthly payment so you can compare and negotiate.
• Bring someone you trust. Have them track every number that changes and tell you when the talks start over. Arizona's attorney general says two people are better able to handle high-pressure sales tactics than one.

Once you agree on a deal, you're usually taken to the finance office to sign. Arizona's attorney general warns that at some dealerships, the finance person won't use the price you agreed to. It adds that they'll almost always try to sell you costly extras.

• Don't be rushed. The FTC says to ask the dealer to slow down, especially on a tablet. Compare what you see at signing with what the dealer sent you before.
• If the price or terms don't match, the FTC says to ask questions and be prepared to walk away.
• The CFPB says add-ons like extended warranties and GAP insurance are optional. See whether a dealer extended warranty is worth it.