Buying a plane ticket - No funny business

[StingerHopeful]

Guys,

I'm about to pull the trigger and fly out to pick up the beaut. Only thing holding me back is booking the plane ticket, one way, just to sit down and get bait n switched. For those of you who travelled to get the car, how did you ensure no numbers were massaged when you got there?

 

[nhcowboy28]

Nope. Nopety nope.

they’ll know you’re screwed coming from out of town. And they will fk you over.

 

[StingerHopeful]

Nope. Nopety nope.

they’ll know you’re screwed coming from out of town. And they will fk you over.

Very helpful, informative answer. Thank you.

 

[robz32]

make sure you get everything, number wise, on paper before booking any flights. Dealer should be able to make an exception since you are flying in to pick it up. Also to entice them to give you your OTD offer on paper, metion to them that you are willing to put a deposit on the vehicle. If they decline, then walk away.

 

[Hamburger1971]

I wouldn't do anything without a formal document from them including proof that you put down a deposit against the pricing that you agreed to. If you're buying a plane ticket, you need something to act as a contract between you and the dealer. Without that, too much risk that they don't honor pricing since you're already committed financially and emotionally.

 

[Luminary]

What dealership is it? Have you looked at the dealership's reviews (here on the forums - if any, and on the net)?

 

[nhcowboy28]

Very helpful, informative answer. Thank you.

Well kiss my grits sugar.

 

[DNA is Digital]

Guys,

I'm about to pull the trigger and fly out to pick up the beaut. Only thing holding me back is booking the plane ticket, one way, just to sit down and get bait n switched. For those of you who travelled to get the car, how did you ensure no numbers were massaged when you got there?

On top of the price of the car... what is the cost of the plane ticket, any hotels, and fuel costs coming back? If you factor those in, does something closer become more reasonable?

 

[Flameangel]

Nope. Nopety nope.

they’ll know you’re screwed coming from out of town. And they will fk you over.

Well, you tell it as it is !

 

[SteveCo]

Some people on here have bought from out of town, and had a very pleasant experience after arriving to pick it up - the car was gone over and prepared for them, paperwork was all in order and ready for signature at the agreed upon price, etc. I'd like to think there are more than a few dealers willing to honestly deal with a remote buyer.

I would certainly seek some extra assurances from them that there would be no surprises - such as getting a copy of the paperwork sent to me ahead of time, to review it before making the trip.

 

[Vladec]

Get your price breakout sent to you....?

 

[turboAWD]

Seconded / thirded - which dealer? Any reviews?

 

[Billy M]

I haven't bought a car in the city I live in, in the last 12 years. Make a deal on one the dealer cant move and go get it. Flew from Austin to Maryland and drove nonstop home for my STi. Sure I got a blood clot in my left leg, but I didnt die, so....... worth it.
But seriously I have only had positive experiences shopping across or out of state. Just let them know you are serious, and once you have nailed down your price, put a refundable deposit with a receipt, and let them know that if the deal changes or the car is not as expected you walk. Get a round trip ticket, and as long as you don't check in you can call (must call) and cancel the return flight for a credit or refund.