ADHD & the CAR buying process headache

[ServiceSloth]

Anybody else feel totally overwhelmed by car salesmen and unsure of how to navigate? I am a single woman and go in totally mistrusting of their numbers and have no idea how to negotiate for what I need and for lower. It is challenging because it involves MAKING A DECISION. Then just when you think you've got a mo. payment you're happy with, they start throwing in a ton of other options that start inflating this price you worked so hard to get... I was there all day one year (leases expire every 3-4 years) niggling numbers and they gave me stinkeye looks as if I'd wasted their time! Is there any kind of mental health accomodation that comes with a car lease? Otherwise I feel like we are just here to be taken advantage of by overwhelming neurotypicals!

[Lenon526]

It's absolutely overwhelming! My take is that they try to take advantage of everyone and look for anyway they can to get you in an out fast with as many up sells as possible. - I would do all you research ahead of time to be informed. You can also do nearly the entire process online these days.

- Look in to a car buying service like AAA (you don't have to be a member), your bank or insurance company. They'll get you the same or better price the dealer will have without the hidden markups from and hassle of dealing with the dealer/salesman.

-If you have to to the dealership take a friend and have an previously agreed upon Verbal Cue to help you stop and walk away. I would recommend writing everything down. And before you leave your house write at the top of the page "No decisions today!" If it's a "Today Only" deal not actually a deal.

There's also tons of dealerships out there. If you feel uncomfortable leave and find another one.

I hope this helps!

[ServiceSloth in reply to Lenon526]

Thank you so much Lenon526, I had no idea of my options. Online, AAA, And Im a member and they are my insurance! Def the friend presence has helped so much, a big strong guy who makes them quiver in their neatly pressed pants. Hahaha!!! Thank you for taking the time. "Not really a deal" had me 😝😝😝lol!!!

[dessaraine]

Yessssssss!!! I'm currently trying to get OUT of one of these situations I was pressured into

[SilverbackG]

Hi,

I hated everything to do with car buying for years, then when I was around 40, It changed. What made all the difference? The internet! You can be totally prepared. Determine exactly what you want and what you want to pay for it. I was going with a "used" vehicle, so I located as many available vehicles that fit what I wanted, within 50 miles of me. Back then I printed out the info on each car, and brought it with me. I started with the vehicle I wanted the MOST on my list. I went to that dealer, test drove it, and then told them what I was willing to pay. (Oh, I forgot to say that I. got pre approved financing from my credit union). When the salesperson said "no way you are getting this vehicle for that price" I showed him another vehicle on my list, 40 miles away and a different color. He tried to counter with "you won't drive that far" and I stated "Yes I will, I have plenty of time." I added "besides the color is better, this one you have is just ok in appearance." That was a lie, but it helped.

So he of course said " I have to take this to my manager." He came back with a "No" from the manager. So I said, "thank you" and left. I thought I probably went too hard. Turns out, you can't go too hard with car salespeople! He called within 10 minutes. I went back and said I will only talk to your supervisor, who came right out. He tried to counter my offer, I told him "it is my only offer,:" and stood up to leave. He went to get the next level up supervisor/manager. I went through 2 more, and the last guy was the top boss. He countered with "$500 more, so I can pay the sales person a commission" and I accepted.

Never need a vehicle. Go in with knowledge and having made your decision on what you will pay. Walk away readily and take no shit or attitude! You can do it!