Finding a used vehicle with an attractive price can seem like a great opportunity. The problem appears when the buyer arrives at the dealership and discovers that the advertised figure is far from what they will finally have to pay.

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It is precisely against this practice that the United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC) wants to act.

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The federal agency sent warnings to numerous dealers in the country to remind them that advertised prices must reflect the true cost of the vehicle, including all mandatory fees.

The practices that are under the magnifying glass

According to the FTC, some sellers have resorted to strategies that generate a misleading image of the final price. These include discounts that are not available to all customers or mandatory rates that are added only when the purchase is advanced.

Also questioned are advertisements that show vehicles at prices conditional on the financing offered by the dealership itself, limiting the possibility of the buyer using an external financial entity.

Another behavior observed consists of demanding the acquisition of additional services or accessories that were not included in the initial advertising of the vehicle.

Christopher Mufarrige, director of the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection, was forceful in explaining the agency's position: “The Trump-Vance FTC is committed to preventing dealers from misleading consumers with low advertised prices and then adding mandatory fees at the end of the purchasing process.”

The entity also warned against promoting vehicles that are not actually available, a practice that can attract buyers through offers that do not exist in practice.

More protection for those looking for a used

The measure seeks to strengthen transparency in one of the most important segments of the US automotive market. Every year, millions of people turn to used cars as a more affordable alternative to new vehicles.

With this initiative, consumers will have more tools to demand that the published value match the amount that appears in the purchase contract.

Specialists recommend continuing to carefully review each document and request a detailed breakdown of any additional charges before signing.

The FTC made clear that it will continue to monitor dealerships' business practices. In addition, he recalled that he has already promoted actions against groups in the sector for issues related to advertising and prices.

Those companies that persist in using deceptive strategies could face investigations, financial sanctions and legal proceedings.