Auto issues remain America’s #1 consumer frustration.
In 2025, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported over 350,000 complaints.
Recent investigations into major dealer groups found that as many as 80% of customers were charged for “mandatory” add-ons they never wanted and felt even after they signed the paperwork, they got a rotten deal.
“Legitimately, if you’ve signed all the documents, completed your purchase, and driven your new car home, legally there isn’t much of anything you can do in most jurisdictions. In the eyes of the law, you’re the owner of that car. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t practical steps you can take to try and resolve the issue,” said auto retail analyst and consumer advocate Ray Shefska.
Shefska tells consumers there are ways to escalate a car sale dispute to if you feel you have been scammed by the dealer.
1. First, don’t call the salesperson, go higher to the or better yet, the general manager (GM). When you do get through to a manager, the first thing you should try and do is appeal to them to “do the right thing.”
2. Next, if that doesn’t solve the problem, Shefska says escalate the matter to dealership ownership like the managing partner, the area vice president or the owner of the dealership.
3. Legal and regulatory options
What if “talking it out” doesn’t work? Do you still have options if you were scammed, overcharged, or taken-advantage of by a car dealership? The answer is yes.
Shefska encourages consumers to contact the Better Business Bureau, your state’s Consumer Protection Office, or even the Attorney General’s office.
A quicker response may come from the Better Business Bureau. The Office of Consumer protection and the Attorney General’s office generally want to see a pattern of abuse by a dealership before taking action.
4. Leverage social media
And if all else fails, use social media.
Shefska points out there are a number of sites where you can post a review of the dealership and share your experience.
“When this is done, the car buyer will more than likely elicit a positive response from the dealer management. Dealers want to protect their online reputation. This means they’ll usually want to make amends for their wrongdoing to encourage a more positive review from you,” said Shefska
