How To Avoid the Top 4 Crooked Car Dealer Tactics

How to Spot a Lemon Car and Avoid Crooked Car Dealer Tactics

Buying a used car is a major investment — and for many, it’s one of the biggest financial decisions they’ll make. Unfortunately, the process isn’t always straightforward. While many dealerships operate honestly, there are still crooked car dealers out there using shady tactics to sell defective vehicles, often referred to as lemons.

If you’re in the market for a pre-owned vehicle, it’s crucial to be prepared. In this guide, we’ll break down common car dealer tactics and scams and help you learn how to spot a lemon car before it’s too late.

1. Downplaying Major Issues

Shady salespeople are known for glossing over serious problems when closing deals. If you hear that a loud rattle is “normal,” or that a slow start is “just a weak battery,” beware. These can be signs of major underlying issues like engine failure or a faulty transmission.

PRO TIP: These are used car red flag warnings you shouldn’t ignore. Always get a third-party used car inspection before purchasing. Don’t rely on the dealership’s word.

2. “As-Is” and “Trade-In Special” Labels

Terms like “as-is special” or “trade-in deal” might sound like a bargain, but they often signal that the vehicle has issues. “As-is” means you accept the car with no warranty — whatever happens after the sale is on you.

PRO TIP: This is a classic example of auto dealer fraud being overlooked by buyers. Ask for a full vehicle history report and make sure you understand what’s covered before signing anything.

3. Cosmetic Fixes to Hide Defects

Some crooked car dealers will give a lemon a quick makeover to hide its flaws — fresh paint, shampooed interiors, and even steam-cleaned engines. But don’t be fooled: what looks clean on the outside may be hiding leaks, rust, or accident damage on the inside.

PRO TIP: Watch out for used car cosmetic scams — they’re designed to distract you from real problems. Look for paint overspray, mismatched colors, or poorly aligned panels — signs the car may have been in a wreck.

crooked car dealer will give a lemon a quick makeover

4. Pressure Tactics and Fake Urgency

If a salesperson insists that “this deal won’t last” or claims “someone else is on the way to buy it,” that’s a sign they want to pressure you into skipping proper research. This is a common used car buying scam tactic. While the sense of urgency can sometimes prompt decision-making, it’s crucial not to be pressured into making hasty choices. A reputable salesperson respects your process and doesn’t rely on false urgency tactics.

PRO TIP: Don’t fall victim to high-pressure car sales techniques. If you feel pressured, walk away.

Stay Smart: Protect Yourself from Used Car Scams and Crooked Car Dealers

Knowing how to avoid a crooked car dealer and spot a lemon car can save you thousands in repairs and legal headaches. Always approach used car deals with a healthy dose of skepticism, and do your homework:

Inspect the car thoroughly.
Get a vehicle history report.
Schedule a pre-purchase inspection.
Don’t sign anything without reviewing the fine print.

Stuck with a Lemon? We Can Help.

Get a FREE Consultation Today

If you’re a California resident and you’ve bought a lemon vehicle with ongoing issues, defective parts, or repeated repairs, you may be entitled to compensation under lemon law. Our experienced team of lemon law attorneys and RV lemon law lawyers is here to guide you through the legal process.

Contact the Attorneys at the RV Auto Legal Team for:

A free lemon law case review
Personalized legal support
Assistance dealing with auto fraud and dealer deception

Serving All of California: Call 1-858-544-2292