Fear & Loathing The Classic Car Dealer

[hudsonjoe49]

I have had a case brought to me that this guy had sold a car on ebay, He posted a picture of a car that was sold in the past, built another car similar to the one in the picture but not even the same year and sold it as the car sold in the past. That is a bait and switch I was shocked, the classic car community is a small world and everybody knows everybody. We need to cutout dealers like this. It is very depressing that there are people in this world who think they can get away with it. I like to buy cars that have original paint or no paint at all on them. You can see if there is any rust in the quarter panels, rockers, lower cowl etc. I always try and do my homework ask for alot of pictures and I never buy out of state. Just my two cents.

[T-Time]

Originally Posted by Harrison

I'd rather live in a country where a man is free to make his living how he sees fit than somewhere where someone else determines which professions are "acceptable".

I say "Good for Teddie". He is making a living doing what he (probably) loves. Martha accepted his offer & Scott bought without thoroughly inspecting the car.

Well-written rant Ryan, but I'm not buying it.

JH

Amen.

[Energy]

I work at an auto auction, and I guarantee you that that is how most small used car dealers stay in business. Even if they don't self-finance (think J.D.Buyforever), they will pay $2-5K for something at the auction and come as close as possible to doubling their money on each car. And people must be doing it, because those same dealers are back next week buying more of them. I am getting a perpetual look on my face after seeing what these guys are doing.
Some days, I am ashamed to claim I am from Earth!

[n847]

First off Good Read Ryan! I really enjoy the article!


I'm on the fence...I like to look at cars from the owner, I can see the car in its home...I can see where it lived, how it was treated, what kind of tools were in the garage, if the guy (or gal) looke like they could have changed the oil, brakes, etc.
That being said these guys pull cars from all over the country in places I could never afford to go find them!

[SteveClary]

Loathing!!!

I once purchased a car from a nationwide used car dealership out of urgency.

1. First the sales rep stated none of the reps make commission so ask anybody for assistance.
2. Next he shows me a wrecked car in his showroom and says "we'll never sell you a car like this".

1.. About a year later the same rep who sold me the car walks into my place of employment and says the dealership is now hiring and the "commissions" are great.
2.. Some time after that my mechanic said the car was in a major accident at one time.

If a nationwide dealership has their reps lie on script what can you expect from the majority of small potatoe dealerships?

Craigslist has served me well since then: 1965 Chevy shortbed & 1962 Impala Hardtop

[jazz1]

It's sketchy enough buying vehicles when you can see them up close,,open the hood and doors and decide if the seller is genuine or just spoutin' verbal diarrhea. Buying vehicles sight unseen such as ebay you are really gambling and hoping to come out on top. I can't imagine spending 10 or 20k sight unseen,,furthermore losing your downpayment..I bought my truck on ebay for 600, Got to wondering why I was the only bidder but after winning the auction seller called me and said I would be happy with the condition of the truck and I was.