Car dealer ambush tactics (and how to beat them) | Auto Expert John Cadogan

Save thousands on any new car (Australia-only): autoexpert.com...
OLIGHT discount! (These are awesome.)
bit.ly/3zF5hCQ
12% off: Use code AEJC
Bluetti portable power solutions: www.bluettipow...
Help support my independent reporting, securely, via Patreon: www.patreon.co...
Podcast (audio-only version, for listening in the car, etc.): anchor.fm/auto...
Save thousands on any new car (Australia-only): autoexpert.com...
AutoExpert discount roadside assistance package:
247roadservice...
Did you like this report? You can help support the channel, securely via PayPal: www.paypal.com...

[@sgtkabukiman9411]

When they ask you if you want the paint protection, Ask them, Why? is there something wrong with your paint? Or maybe suggest that the competitors paint might be better quality.

[@grantlouw3182]

I did that, threatened to cancel on the spot since they said paint needs protection from the sun. Back peddling ensued 🤣🤣

[@krissteel4074]

Paint protection, that thing called waxing your car once or twice a year. It'll probably cost you 20-30 bucks for some wax and last you 5-6yrs

[@85priesty]

The only thing I'd recommend when you get offered paint protection/leather protection etc...is the 3M protective film on the boot of a hatch or to protect the front end, or wherever you may have noticed particular damage to your previous vehicle, depending on your individual needs, because that is actually an ok product...

[@David-wt3tt]

I've done that with a few Nissan dealers, and they could not end the call quickly enough

[@jaybloggs8699]

@@85priesty still wouldn't get it added by the stealership...

[@arrowrod]

My favorite: The salesman says he has to talk to the boss about the deal and leaves the room, saying, "wait here". I get up and follow him.

[@wilson2455]

recently had my windows tinted privately. The company is well located with 6 large car yards within a 10km radius. Had mine done for $300 with a lifetime warranty. Speaking to the manager whilst waiting, she said that most dealerships had a minimum 200% - 300% markup if the tint was supposedly done 'in-house (some like the local BMW yard had a 1000% markup). But worse still, a few warranty jobs had come back where the dealership had charged for 'top of the range' tinting but only ordered the basic tint. Same with upholstery protection, dashcam supply/install, etc, etc.

[@Suemack24]

Can you share the company name so I can get mine tinted there too please?

[@Rusty_Gold85]

Take a few print outs from the Consumer Business site on your rights on buying a product and ask them to sign that

[@thewholls7176]

I bought a brand-new car off the showroom floor in 2004 I got suckered 1500 for the paint protection another amount for the electronic rust device that had a blinking red light about four years later I bumped into the salesman at the pub and had left the game and I reminded him he sold me paint protection and he laughed out loud when I said is it worth anything and he’s exact words were “mate you might as well just wank on the bonnet”

[@stephenspreckley8219]

Did he get a hefty smack in the mouth?

[@thewholls7176]

@@stephenspreckley8219 No because at the time I was the local pharmacist and if I started a fight in the pub it would’ve been a bad look

[@MalHanson]

@@thewholls7176 You could always put something 'interesting' in his next prescription! 🙂

[@djmini2numpty141]

the look on the salesperson everytime she received a firm "no" from me as she went down her list of "essential" extras was priceless lol

[@andrewd7586]

A Holden dealer back in the day tried the hard sell on my best mate! He sent in the hot as hell Ming Mole! Before she even got started on the paint protection, the fabric protection etc, my mate looked at her & said “Send your boss back in so I can cancel this deal!” She promptly left & that was it!🤣

[@rogersmith7396]

I would have said forget that shit, lets talk about us. How much will it take to put you in my deal?

[@sjsisdhdjdkssosjdhxnx]

I usually look at her tits and flirt with them for half an hr with the intention of sleeping with them all the while having no intention of taking any of her bullshit sales. These ming moles are usually nymphos who would not hesitate banging a young attractive male.

[@wigs1098]

'Moll' not Mole

[@RDDHopsing77]

I know it's annoying. But she was only doing her job. All he had to say was "I'm not interested".

[@Tommyinoz1971]

I use a pretty good paint protection system. It's called my garage.

[@terrystephens1102]

Thanks, John, I always enjoy saying “no” to all of the add ons that they try to push onto you.😁

[@davidnobular9220]

Then they get shirty and give you the car that John West rejected.....

[@peterguertler3357]

John love your new format where you just tell the story as it is without all the crap you used to speak. You always have had interesting topics but is was very had to watch till the end. I have subscribed to your channel tonight because your channel is finally straight to the point.

[@rogersmith7396]

Oh yeah another boring car channel. Like thats something novel.

[@ARCHIES_79_LC]

Well said Peter.

[@yuglesstube]

My wife bought a Jimny. She got the paint protection. I did not argue because I did not want to argue. Ceramic, indeed. How this works at the molecular level defeats me. We were then shuffled into another office to discuss the Extended Warranty. Dark mutterings and bleak prognostications...Important to ensure that when, if, inevitably perhaps...bad things...repair costs...a kind of insurance... So I amiably agreed that I found the idea very satisfyingly interesting, so as not to upset Her Indoors, pledging to return to the issue on our next visit, with a positive approach. There was a moments hesitation when I asked disarmingly for a copy of this Warranty. It was provided, rather reluctantly. Smile. Great. See you soon. So I went through it carefully. The car was bought to drive aggressively on the rocky road to Dingo Piss Creek. Cross rivers, beaches etc. And these things we have done with some success. The Extended Warranty expressly forbade these endeavours. So I won that little victory.

[@camf7522]

Makes one think of running away when a dealer says it’s essential to have a protection package applied to a new car, it says to me that the car they are selling isn’t durable.

[@rogersmith7396]

I would say that great as long as its free.

[@dannymullen2978]

Since we often don't buy autos but for every few/several years, dealers have had that time to scheme new ways to squeeze the turnip (or balls or whatever). That's one way we get ambushed. Used to be the undercoating or pin-stripes, etc. This is a good eye-opener/warning John, thanks for the review and warning.

[@jimamizzi1]

Spot on JC, last time a purchased a new car in 2015 which was very painful, signed all necessary documents paid the deposit, then was told I had to sit with this very nice lady to talk about add ons. So I sat down then immediately got up walked to the sales guy and said, I’ll only be here one more time to collect my car and that’s it. He rightfully asked why and I said it has just taken 4 bloody hours to buy a car. Cya.

[@justinfargas2367]

Just pumping out the content big time. Thank you John. As you were.

[@ozbassman11]

I was told if I didn't get the paint protection I didn't really 'love' my car!

[@rogersmith7396]

Its a hunk of metal and plastic. Only psychos love cars.

[@theairstig9164]

Does one “love” their car from behind or underneath?

[@davidnobular9220]

@@rogersmith7396 Woah !!! What about the brake and radiator fluids ? They're my favourite.....

[@rogersmith7396]

@@theairstig9164 Depends on the nationality. In the US, man on top. So I suppose in Stralya its man on bottom. Who knows what asians do.

[@rogersmith7396]

@@davidnobular9220 Too messy.

[@stewartmarler1416]

Cadoges: "Modern cars don't rust" LDV: "Hold my beer"

[@davidnobular9220]

And their diff bolt threads don't strip on first opening either.....

[@dougstubbs9637]

What’s the difference between a Ford and a Tampon ? The Tampon comes supplied with a tow cable.

[@JJ-wi2uw]

Hmmmm..... what about the assortment of Korean made "Holdens" that GMH sold to the unsuspecting Australian public?

[@gazzafloss]

I wonder how many of the Toyota's that had the paint falling off them had their owners stump up for the paint treatment, maybe they refused to sign the "waiver".

[@davidshepherd265]

A couple of years ago I went to a few car dealerships with Mum to help her buy a new car, we decided on the Mazda CX-3. Never bought a new car in my life before and was looking forward to my first "Ming Mole" experience. I was thoroughly disappointed when it didn't happen. Needless to say they still tried to get us to agree on the paint protection.

[@b.switzer4744]

The paint on my 2009 Hyundai sante fe completely peeled off the front end after 4 years of ownership. The paint didn’t need protection, it needed a new paint job! 😞

[@azza9575]

My wife bought a Hyundai venue recently and the protection/window tint girl were thrown at us , she tells us that new paints used on new cars don't contain any lead in them since 2017 and that if we don't use any paint protection the paint is going to fall off at some point ,we were then told there paint protection system would last for the life of the car and never need to be re applied, when we said no she says have you used your voucher yet, we said wat voucher, she says Hyundai give us a voucher towards paying for the paint protection because it's going to fall off , we said no again, we were then told we could use someone else's voucher to get a bigger discount , there paint protection/interior and tint package was $3500, with these so called vouchers $2500, we said we would think about it and left, over the next few days we were called and harassed about getting it , 3 people back to back calls try to do the hard sell my wife ends up blowing her lid at the sale's guy and that was the end of it , I've never seen people behave this way truly disgraceful

[@farmlyf]

This reminds me of the time we were shopping for a sofa and they tried to sell us some kind of stain protection, it was about five or six hundred dollars from memory, so we asked what was actually covered - it was pretty much only the areas that would be unlikely to get stained: a polite get stuffed was our response.

[@warrenookland8169]

It bothers me when i watch one of John videos and find I 100% agree.

[@Suemack24]

Felt so grubby after my visit to a dealership today, not having done so for 12 years it hasn’t changed. Push, push will you sign and give a $1000 deposit if we take a test drive asked three times, three broken record NO back to him. Do I take a test drive or not? Yesterday however was a totally different story with one company handing me the keys to DIY and figure it out for myself. Seems they didn’t need any sale. Yet another was actually informative and no rush. Walked away and wrote to you for a price.

[@rogersmith7396]

You've got to make them come to you. Make them push the test drive on you. Do not buy til you have done your homework. Make them call you. I've let them chase me for two months on a sale. The price will go down, count on it. The buy is almost always optional. Treat it that way.

[@grimtrigger7557]

off topic: love your tools and the batcave, now that I have seen different angles (and I feel a bit of envy, I have to admit). All the best from Austria, across the globe.

[@MickPsyphon]

Another good way to ensure that the dealership doesn't bend you over the hood of the car and have their way with you, is to tell the salesperson up front that you refuse to discuss financing until you've come to an agreement on the final price of the vehicle. If they already know how you're going to pay for it, they'll take you for all they can; and if you say that you want to pay cash for the entire price of the vehicle, they won't give you any deals whatsoever (they hate when people pay the entire price, because they make zero $$$ from financing) Haggle about the price; get it in writing, with all the options listed; then once they've agreed to sell it to you for a price that you'll accept, tell them how you're going to pay for it.

[@_bodgie]

In my experience if a deal is on the table today it'll usually be on the table tomorrow.

[@Suemack24]

But the new arm twist is availability, “I can only guarantee stock today” “I’m in no rush.” “Are you prepared to pay one or more, perhaps up to three price rises then if the manufacturer can’t supply a vehicle for 12 to 18 months?” Push push UGH!!!

[@rayjennings3637]

I bought my Peugeot new in 2007 with no 'paint protection' and when I wash and polish it even now, it still looks fantastic!

[@Pilski]

I must be the oddball! John, love your videos, mostly, especially those related to dealership experiences. First, if one finds a dealer of a favorite brand and they have continually desirous products, stay with that dealer! Since the first visit some 22 years ago, NEVER have such things as paint/fabric, rust or any other kind of "protection" even been mentioned where I buy/lease cars. Obliged to mention it, the 'finance guy' always asks, "...you don't want the extended warranty, do you?" I've always gotten the product, DEAL AND TERMS I WANTED without EVER paying any money down! On three occasions I had to wait a few days (never more than 5) for them to do a dealer swap for my particular car; one was with a dealer FIVE HUNDRED MILES away! No cost to me, either; all was explained very clearly in the negotiation process. With my first purchase, "...lifetime free oil changes..." was an incentive. Some 15 years later, went in for oil change and was told, "no, we don't do that anymore; parent company policy change..." Ok, give me my keys. On the way out I stopped by the general managers office, explained the situation. Replay was...as long as you buy/lease a car here you will get free oil changes. He kept a happy customer. I get the lowest possible lease mileage agreement; on three occasions, due to extensive travel, the miles started to pile up. Each time I traded early, the dealer paying off my lease (ranging from 6 to 15 months). The service department goes out of the way to accommodate in whatever way necessary; I could go on and on about that. This may sound like a fairytale, but most assuredly it is all true. Truly, it is amazing what will happen when you say no, something I learned a long time ago. Made the deal (not the same dealer as above) on a car I really wanted, one they had dealer swapped for some 175 miles away. Went in for the 'finance guy' altercation. He looked at the contract and told me 'we can't sell this car for this price.' I turned to my wife and said let's go, hon; we got up and hadn't even turned toward the door..." ...wait, wait, maybe we can work something out..." I said sure...we'll work it out...exactly what is on that paper. As I recall, due to some reason, total price and/or monthly actually came out a little less! So John...you KNOW I grin a little every time you give the advice to just say NO! Keep up the good work.

[@bindingcurve]

Dude, you do short term leases. You are just printing money for the dealership 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@kahuna1247]

@@bindingcurve Well, if it suits his lifestyle, gets treated well & is happy with the arrangement... more power to him!

[@Pilski]

@@bindingcurve DUDE...see Kahuna's reply; couldn't have said it any better myself, DUDE. If they make a buck, fine with me as long as I GET WHAT I WANT...and I do...DUDE. Forgot to mention one thing...in addition, my lease payments GET LOWER! Got to admit...there's a little secret to that, DUDE.

[@Pilski]

@@kahuna1247 Thanks...couldn't have said it better! (see reply to bindingcurve above) Didn't mention the lower lease payments or getting a loaner car for my (free) oil changes. And, if I'm (fairly often) going on a trip they will change the oil at 25 or 30% so I don't have to have it done (at MY expense) on the trip. Went in for an oil change once; GM asked how things were with the car. I mentioned the miles were piling up. Four days later I had a new car, much to my surprise (nothing down, same monthly)...nearly a year left on the lease that they paid off. re life style...the way we look at it is, like diamonds, car payments are forever, so why not have trouble-free travel, no maintenance costs for LESS than payments would be. Haven't bought a tire or oil change in 20 years. Many years ago I "...kept a car until the wheels fell off", paid lots of mechanics' fees, bought lots of tires and come trade-in time I might have well had a go-kart! Pardon the rambling...just sayin'.

[@bindingcurve]

@@Pilski (free) oil changes🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 Nothing wrong with leasing. But don't think your a financial wizard because of it

[@GuitarsRockForever]

I laughed when dealer was attempt to scam me about the "paint protection". I just happened to know more about it, and I told him something new that can "protect" the paint.

[@joshm2604]

As the owner of a detailing business, this amuses me.

[@DamonDupriez]

Yep, had to hold a mate's hand while he got Ming Moled recently at a Mercedes dealership. He'd already signed up for the $1500 ceramic coating package (cough) and then $2500 for the front and rear collision camera set (cough, cough). Had fun explaining to him that the car had already been detailed which accounts for most of the work in the ceramic coating process and that I could wipe on/off the ceramic coating myself for him for around $50 worth of product. Then showed him the same camera the dealer was selling for $849 installed elsewhere - all in front of the Ming Mole. Needless to say, both were removed from the contract...

[@tomnewham1269]

Was she good looking?

[@ryanadams927]

Hi John, love your videos they’re awesome. Wanted to ask if you’d be able to post some as a podcast format on iTunes or Spotify as I’m sure many people including myself would love to listen while we drive home from work as life happens which means I don’t have as much time to watch long videos. Doesn’t have to be anything fancy I’m sure there will be lots of traction from it. Cheers keep up the great work

[@Suemack24]

Can’t you listen to KZbin via your phone as you drive, same as the other platforms?

[@ryanadams927]

@@Suemack24 True, I can be on the road for a fair amount of time, but having to skip 1-2 minute ads while driving is a no from me. To make them podcasts he doesn’t really even need to do much more work, just upload the same audio from the video and you’re done. More platforms mean more traction which means more $ in the end

[@markpaterson6024]

Great idea! And instead of paying Mr Google for add free content we can send John a bit of $$ for his coffee addiction to listen to add free words of wisdom via pod cast! Do it John!🙏

[@andrewgriffin926]

At one new car purchase, I informed the Ming Moll I would look after the paint myself, she look me square on and told me that you can’t polish Honda paint. I laughed at that one, even more so at home after reading the handbook section on regularly polishing and waxing the car to maintain its appearance. Said Moll then said I needed rust protection and when I retorted with “but the car comes with a 10 year warranty against rust already” I was told it was for rust you can’t see!! If you can’t see it how do you know it’s there?? It’s the flat out lying I dislike, even if they are just doing their job.

[@jgrieve3282]

I was recently looking to buy a new Hungdong (SsangYong) ute and most of the dealers would tell me all 22.5 models were going up $1000 in September and this would be applied to the 22.5 stock they already had; I found one dealer that had stock and didn't try and add the extra 1k on.

[@rogersmith7396]

No red blooded American will ever buy something called a Hung Dong. What the hell is wrong with you people?

[@davidewhite69]

when I bought a new Kia Sportage in 2017 they rolled out the skimpy clothed ming moll to try it on for paint protection, leather protection, window tinting, rust protection.... Having learnt about them from your channel I was fully expecting her. fast forward to 2021 when I was buying a new Subaru Forrester I was pleasantly surprised that they didnt roll out the ming moll, and later signing the purchase contract the salesperson asked why I didnt want paint protection, and she acted astonished when I said there was no need, she then went to her office to get a 'waiver' form, as if it might make me rethink, but when she returned I just pushed it aside without signing it. The only form I agreed to sign was the acknowledgement that "Eyesight" was not a hands off driving aid

[@ateamfan42]

@9:10 Resident of New England here, where the roads are coated white with salt all winter. Can confirm rust is VERY much a thing here, even with newer cars. I've seen brand new cars start to rust on the chassis after a single month of winter service.

[@woodtiger1411]

Great video and context given, to the lowest common denominator of your ever expanding audience JC ;-) Once bitten, twice shy they say right? We had purchased the paint protection for our Hyundai Terracan back in 2005. Had the car for 10 years and took it on the beach and off road a couple times a year. No issues with the paint and we took it to the dealer within the 1st 3-5 years more often than not for servicing and then to our preferred mechanic after the warranty expired. We then downsized (upgraded) to the Hyundai ix35 Highlander. We took the paint protection there again. This time we didn't take servicing to the dealer we had purchased it from and chose another Hyundai dealer closer to home. Several years later (year 3) we noticed that the boot tail wing clear coat, started to crystallise and then flake off. This only occurred on this section of the vehicle, no where else. We took it to our current servicing dealer and then they used this line. "You are outside the 2 year warranty for paint for this vehicle. Where did you purchase the vehicle from and get the paint protection? Perhaps see them and inquire about this issue". Classic pass the buck routine. I used the paint protection contact card and it always went to voicemail. No response. Forced to go to the dealer we had bought it from and they used the line "oh we noticed you haven't been servicing the vehicle with us, allowing us to check your paint integrity every year". They were not going to help, even after I had told them the paint protection contact that they pushed on us, has NOT contacted us after so many messages. They simply said "we have changed suppliers and would've received updated contact details, had we serviced the vehicle with them regularly". They had an answer for everything. So I simply said "Well I have my answer for where I will NOT be going to purchase all my other new vehicles from". We recently purchased a new Sante Fe (2019) without the paint protection. After a video you had done, many moons ago. We service the car at a dealer (novated lease) close to home and we noticed after an auto (clothe) carwash that the white paint had clearly flake away, showing grey undercoat paint. The size of a basketball. I was aware of the 2 year warranty on paint via the manufacturer and Hyundai Australia approved (obviously) the re-spray. We have had another flake paint incident on the boot of our SUV, the size of a pie. Again after an auto (clothe) carwash. This was in our 3rd year of having the vehicle. Clearly outside the standard 2 year vendor coverage. Thankfully though, Hyundai Australia has approved the work via the servicing dealer we have been giving our business to. It was a prior warranty claim that was approved and this is current known defect it appears, if not for the series of the model, at least for this vehicle. You are spot on with the dealer push, for 500% mark up on a service that is a total gimmick pitch. Clearly it comes back to knowing your rights, the universe sending you a bone from time to time and dealing with a brand that will support their customer within the limits of their written word and brand perception. Whilst all these elements played into favour this time, it is fraught with potential frustration regardless - even without paying extortionist prices for the "placebo paint protection pack!".

[@stendecstretcher5678]

I have paint protection it’s called a garage.

[@richardkaz2336]

Dare I say that 99% of 6-10 year old cars that have the clear coat peeling are those that have had paint protection. However on the point of rust protection seems if you buy an LDV rust protection is a must.

[@Low760]

That's what I was thinking.

[@rogersmith7396]

My experience is the clear fails at about 20 years.

[@owennspark8450]

G'day John I would like to thank you for your no Bullshit informative videos that tell it as it actually is & don't give a fuck who you offend. After recently retiring I finally found myself in the financial position to buy my first new car @ 65 years of age. After watching a zillion videos of what was in my price range & suitability to replace my 21 year old 5.7 WH Statesman ( that is still in schmick showroom condition that I am keeping) that has served us well as a comfortable effortless tourer with space for 4 adults & all the crap you pack for our many road trips in Oz. The short list came down to Kia Sorrento, Hyundai Santa fe & Mazda CX9 GT. The waiting time for the Koreans was going to be too long so chose the CX9 for the room , build quality & reputation. The local dealer here tried going in dry with all the Bullshit you have warned us uneducated about, so I walked away . I thankfully saw the light & " hit me up & I can save you shit loads " I did & saved just about $5K & a reduced waiting time. From the moment I made my enquiry & was contacted by your people it has been an easy process with great communication all the way . I ordered my CX9GT on the 31st May & it arrived yesterday morning 2/9 at 6.30am with a full tank of fuel to my driveway . My girl is used to driving the WH land yacht so the size of the Mazda didn't intimidate her & now after driving it with all the bells & whistles , parking sensors & cameras etc she now has taken possession of it & told me to fuck off & you can drive the Statesman . That's how woman operate & no doubt we are on the same page in regards to the opposite sex 😉 Once again I would like to thank you for your service provided & have recommended you to my friends. You can use this recommendation on your websites if you wish & I look forward to watching more of you informative videos. 👍 Yours Sincerely Owenn Spark

[@BoleDaPole]

This is why I stopped buying new cars, the theatrics of it all is so damn tiring.

[@chrisgregory4796]

I bought a few new cars as a 30 something, never had a problem with sales or the tits selling paint protection. But it’s completely out of the system now and I have zero interest in any new car. Just happy to keep driving my old BF3 wagon. People often ask why I haven’t upgraded. I just respond with “what for? This one still drives well and is still reliable”. You really don’t need anything more.

[@rogersmith7396]

Some high end buyers say the new ceramic coatings are worthwhile. But you can get them outside of the dealer unless you want to finance it with the car. My car is not garaged and I use Teflon wax on it. A coating might be worthwhile for a non garaged car. I bought a used car with a Ming sticker on the window. No Ming Moll in the boot unfortunately.

[@trannguyen5156]

Love your materials John. Sadly I did not use your service and I’m kicking myself. Traded my Pajero Sport for a Ssangyong Rexton. Signed contract for trade in and agreed price for next Rexton and paid deposit. Seven months later, dealer asked to pay for the difference of $18000, made the payment and was told new vehicle ready 4 days later. Went to drop off my trade in and pick up new car. Not so simple when you deal with a Greedy dealer, they wanted more money as my trade in was with less now and I have done over 90000kms and vehicle is overdue to major service. All the time I wanted I asked if it was ok to drive my car due to the increase kms which was at 88000kms. So I avoided driving the vehicle and only did 6000kms which was ok by them when I asked and that it would not affect my trade in as long as it was under 10000kms from the agreement. Long story now they originally said I need to pay extra $7000 as my trade in is now with less, the. After discussion it went down to $4000 the. After speaking to the manager it went down to $2000 as the dealer will ware the loss of the trade in. Their loss but I have to pay $2000 more! Little to say I refused and walked out but now they have my $18900 and my custom plate that they have already registered to the new car with my plate in my name but won’t sell it to me.

[@antone.henderson]

I had almost made to the car before my mobile range and the sale's manager (the chap who sold me my and my wife's previous vehicles. I think this was veh no 7 over 12 years same dealership, me wife 2 kids) was apologising that he was unable to great me on arrival. He then gave the speech that the sale's guy was new lalalala. After a cup of coffee at the Cafe over the road I reluctantly (what can I screw out of him now) allowed him to take me back to the dealership'a and renegotiate the purchase. Another $250 off plus mats plus 10000k service and no bloody waver. I had done my shopping/trading with 3 other dealers and was already $850 in front before the $250 so happy days. Thanks for the enlightenment. Regards Tony

[@GlowingTube]

I purchased a new i30 last week and I got the the whole paint protection spiel. I politely but firmly said no, the dealership was decent about it and I did not get any pressure.

[@matthewwren2877]

So glad that I saw this coming and said the No to the Dealer BS, but shame that the guy from Aussie Auto Expert was sick when we sign the contract for our car.

[@Swaggerlot]

I often wonder whether 'paint protection' is responsible for the cars I see occasionally with a totally trashed paint job.

[@southernsandgroper3423]

I bought an early 2021 Mazda 3 Astina following all of John’s dealer negotiation tips (very empowering BTW). I reckon I got a great deal off the list price. I wasn’t rude, but they didn’t bother asking about Paint or Fabric Protection. The only parting comment by the dealer was “you know the privacy glass won’t protect the interior UV sunlight?” - we both just had a little laugh, as he knew full well I’d be getting the tinting done else where! I enjoyed the buy, and we have a beaut car that the wife loves!

[@TheWombat2012]

Bought a new Mustang ecoboost last year, and they had a stunning looking woman in a stereotypically short skirt and low cut top come out and sit down to take us through the “protection options”. Ceramic coat, fabric, and electronic rust prevention was nearly two and a half grand all up. Later on my missus said “She was flirting with you so obviously it was embarrassing”..,of course numptie me had no clue and didn’t notice, but it did explain the looks of thunder my missus had on her face during the chat. 🤣 We refused of course. Since then I got a couple of stone chips travelling on our shithouse roads up here in central Queensland, and a few people at work shook their heads and said “you should have got the paint protection”…as if the polish they put on is a bulletproof shield. It won’t stop a rock.

[@davidnobular9220]

I dunno. I was driving on the highway and got hit by a 2 tonne meteor that came out of nowhere. Bounced right off the car. Thanks goodness for paint protection.....

[@RDDHopsing77]

@@davidnobular9220 A 2 tonne meteor. You should be so lucky. I got sideswiped by an eight tonne semi. Not even a scratch.

[@davidnobular9220]

@@RDDHopsing77 That's some good paint protection right there !! Straight off the set of National Lampoons Christmas vacation.

[@privatedata665]

The latest and greatest "coverage" here in "Merica is "electronics diagnosis warranty "after the factory warranty expires . I think they wanted $2500 and it covered all diagnostic labor for anything electric and programming of new parts .....but not the replacement parts . It was an in-house dealer warranty , not a manufacturers warranty .

[@petersmith1076]

John have you seen the new Kia electric car ad? I had a good laugh, oh what a peeling!

[@7wingsaseagles89]

The last time I went to purchase a car about 3 years ago. When they started all that stuff about paint protection extended warranties fabric protection. My next question was what kind of piece of crap of a car you selling me. I think I need to get up and leave now if. Spend my money elsewhere on something more reliable that doesn't require all these additional things. That's when I was told these things are a good idea but really or not necessary.

[@jup52]

One of the tricks i have fallen for once (sadly) and very very nearly twice.(different dealer, same trick) The dealer will have 2 or three cars that look the same ( same brand ,same model, same colour ). You do your test drive you look through the cars history, previous owner and date of manufacture . Then you negotiate a price subject to a mech inspection but the dealer will somehow distract you during this relatively long process and switch the exact car in the paper work, still the same brand ,same model, same colour. And it passes mech inspection but it now turns out to be a previous rental car or an earlier model . You have already signed the contract . I didn't notice the first switch until months later , too late. This is not easy to avoid, you have to carefully check the VIN, date of manufacture and license number on the car, the history and on the contract all match.

[@rogersmith7396]

My 85 Saab 900 was Scotch Guarded by the dealer. Thats not rattle cans but they load it into a paint sprayer and soak the interior. I can still smell it 45 years later. They also tried to sell me undercoating on a car that was factory undercoated. There were some raised eyebrows over that. The interior still looks good and the car has little rust.

[@davidnobular9220]

I imagine breathing that stuff for so long cannot be good for your longer term health......

[@rogersmith7396]

@@davidnobular9220 Maybe but nothing sticks to me so theres that. And I still have that new human smell.

[@davidnobular9220]

@@rogersmith7396 Haha! Better you than me 😀

[@glennmcgrath4345]

I did the fabric protection myself, (I got the fabric protection for about $? )paint protection, it is called wax. etc.

[@grantlouw3182]

JC it’s all well and good spruiking Aussie Consumer law but since you have to pay your own legal costs could you explain how it can realistically be accessed once the car company has said they’ll see you in court after sending them the pro forma ACCC letter? This seems to be a major shortcoming that requires a legislative fix along the lines of if you win they have to pay your costs as well as restitution.

[@nateclarke1179]

Through the ACCC... you can make a complaint through them...

[@wilson2455]

wait until your only means of transport is in a million pieces on the workshop floor & the head service manager says, "we've found the problem & unfortunately it's not covered by warranty..". Let's see anyone who hasn't got 2 - 3 cars at their disposal (like Mr Cadogan) do the ACCC stare-down and demand that they fix it or "see you in court".

[@grantlouw3182]

@@nateclarke1179 As JC has said on numerous occasions the ACCC does not deal with individual complaints. You have to go to court and fight your own case, using your own money, based on consumer law. ACCC only steps in when there is a "class" of complaints.

[@Mark-qk2km]

I was shown a photo on the dealers phone. It was a 80s car where the paint had oxide. They told me without the protection my paint would do the same. I said if my new car will do that I don’t want to buy it and started to walk. They soon changed their minds on pushing the paint protection. This was Suttons of Rosebery NSW Hyundai. Beware. Just say no.

[@limitlessadventures7626]

Your concept on how good the paint is on a modern car is great.mmmmmm may be the paint itself great but the body prep is pretty horrid. Look at all the vehicles out at this point that has the paint trying to leave the car before the car is past it’s 3rd birthday. List of manufacturers to look up recently Toyota ,Nissan ,Suzuki, Ford , and what maybe left of the Holden brand. Mate great vids love the info

[@charlymaher3361]

"Get off the X!" Classic! 🤣

[@Scuppun]

I told the dealer when buying my new CX9 "don't worry about the add ons". I got told they still have to go through the process. I asked them why, I already told them I'm not interested. They backed off. Planning on doing my own detail and ceramic coating when I get it. Better protection than what they offer and at 10% of the so called paint protection cost. I also hear scotch guard has improved so much these days that discolouration of interior fabrics is a thing if the past. What's that worth... $25 for three cans to do an SUV properly? Happy to hear other suggestions if there's something better out there.

[@craigquann]

Hey, I got paint/rust protection. Deal was $1500 and got the ceramic paint protection and under carriage spray. Guaranteed never to rust through for life. Catch was bi-annual inspection with free reapplication. Long and Short, 5 years on and both rocker panels rusted.(Canadian winters are brutal) and I'm glad I got it. Rust is probably a little less of an issue for you folks tho...

[@craigquann]

Dealer made good on the deal.

[@beniman292]

John the ACL also applies to aftermarket and warranty. It must be reasonable quality, as described and fit for purpose, just like the car.

[@gureno19]

If you think modern paint is so good, go ahead and have your relatively new Mitsubishi Triton inspected with a ultrasonic depth meter....you'd be surprised at how little paint and clear is actually there 😅. Some manufacturers do a great job on painting with modern clears and processes, others, namely Mitsubishi do a poor job and have done for decades. (I'm not by any means championing dealer paint protection though)

[@rogersmith7396]

I think its mostly done by robots now.

[@XSAoRAD]

So how many microns in the paint? Never had an issue with Mitsubishi. The Soul Red CX5 I did last week had 61 µm

[@Ozsmallbore]

Owned several new Mitsubishi's over the last 20 years . Currently have 2 in the garage. Never had an issue.

[@georgepppp533]

my 1976 Suburu had rust protection. fine print excluded where they couldn't spray the brown shit that ran out for months. That's where the rust holes in the doors appeared. Don't even remember having a ming mole sell it to me.

[@paulstack2431]

And the real benefit of paint protection in theory is that you shouldn't need to wax or polish the vehicle in the specified period of the protection warranty. As in theory it acts like a polish or wax in protecting the paint by not allowing any form of dirt or environmental fallout from sticking to a protected surface and any such dirt or fallout should blow straight off when washing the surface with a pressure wash in theory ' and yes the cost of such packages from a Dealership is mainly just about profit .

[@buffuniballer]

I've scared more than one Finance and Insurance guy (never been a gal in my experience) by saying, if I need all the protections you are trying to sell me, perhaps I should not buy the car. Sounds like it's not a very good product if you have to sell me all this stuff. That's usually enough as no F&I guy wants to be the one to kill the deal. I tend to take cars to 200-250k Freedom Units 300-400km if I did the estimate in my head in a reasonable fashion. I've yet to see the value in most of this stuff. Anything that hasn't made it that long either bored me to get out or was totaled. Just a bad time to NEED to buy car right now. Ended up shopping used at CarMAX for my son who moved 2000 miles away and the 200k mile Altima wasn't going to be his best choice. Not to mention all the OTD costs in Seattle/ Washington State were higher due to sales taxes making up the difference since there is no state income tax. Anyway, the advice to get off the X is good. Be math literate and if you can, don't be in a state of desperation to buy a car.

[@DrakeN-ow1im]

"...don't be in a state of desperation to buy a car." Wise words, indeed.

[@christrees664]

Never paid for paint protection or interior. I look after my cars, wash them, clean the inside etc. Also had friends in the industry tell me don't get it it's just a scam with a 5000% mark up. So never paid when the call comes through, always said no, I know it's just scrounging for extra dollars and that I have my protections as an Australian consumer. And they generally shut up... And never have I seen a document for waiving that protection, I have a strong feeling it wouldn't hold up under consumer protection laws anyway.

[@georgekaplan6451]

Considering the sales manager told me that the dealer delivery charge included a complete stripdown of the vehicle before I got it. I just looked at him and said "yeah, righto mate."

[@lifetimevic]

Hey John, You did a video once on petrol and 98 etc. Would love a video on the difference of fuel between different brands, if there is one? Is BP and Shell worth the 10 to 40c a litre extra? Also is there a difference between truck diesel and premium diesel? Is there any difference?

[@DarcyFerrier]

bloody oath, this would be a brilliant video

[@DarcyFerrier]

I stick to OTR/BP, Mobil, Caltex, Ampol I don't go anywhere that's suspiciously cheap compared to everyone else

[@Low760]

If you have a performance car yes. Otherwise 91 octane has way more sulphur so it damages the catalytic converter quicker than 95 or 98. I find my performance cars have better economy with 98 over 95 but it's more about the cleanliness of the tank in ground and water amounts.

[@coweatsman]

I think all petrol in Australia comes from the same Singapore refinery of whatever brand AFAIK. Correct me if I am wrong.

[@GreenDistantStar]

Petrol and diesel are two of the most homogenous products you can buy, there are no real differences between one brand or another. Try and source the refinery from whence your fuel came. Premium fuels have a tiny bit of surfactant of dubious value. Of course you have to have the correct octane for petrol, but other than that, just buy at the cheapest price.

[@JJ-wi2uw]

Paint Protection? ... I would tell them that I know a bloke than will give it a ceramic coating for $300-400....and I do!

[@Hirokae]

Helpful advice John. Any thoughts on the behaviours of, and dealing with, novated lease providers in this context?

[@timh6845]

Ask the lease provider the interest rate they charge. It’s often much higher than dealer finance.

[@stevemcintyre4398]

I did the novated lease thing for 9 years and learned a few things. The company that my employer used gave their card that covered everything (fuel included in the last lease instead of a particular brand). All was good until one day I rack a local brand name Jap tyre reseller the price of tyres with no mention that my vehicle was leased. The quote seemed reasonable for the type of tyre that came with the car from new, based on this I booked it in for some tyres. Went to pick the car up later and handed of the lease card and found the price of each tyre had be upped by over 50%. Mentioned this at payment saying the quote 2 days ago with cheaper to no avail. Leasing company was charged the inflated price. Contacted the leasing company stating that they'd been overcharged for tyres negating the fleet discounts supposedly associated with the leasing card. Did n't get any response until I suggested that the lease card and user discounts for dealer servicing fuel and everyday driving consumables espoused were total bullshit. This they weren't impressed with. Long story short, beware and not be sucked with have a nice new shiny novated lease car as you are probably paying overly inflated lease charges for a few years.

[@vwvan]

I wanted to see a picture of Tiffany. After all, that could made a difference when deciding about the paint protection.

[@cach1981]

So true, I have been conned. I admit, at least once or twice when I was young. They sell you the car then the my send in the pretty lady from ‘after sales care & accessories’, they know you’ll be tempted once they put the hard sell on you. One time I went in with a mate to buy a new ute, the ‘pretty lady’ tried to sell us rust protection in his alloy tray. Haha, we said, thanks but no thanks! An alloy tray will not rust and does need rust protection 😝 She could not comprehend, she though we were foolish 🤦🏽‍♂️ I do not fall for that crap 💩 these days now that I’ve been around the block a few times 👍 Recently, my wife purchased a brand new XC60 and the salesperson tried to sell her alloy wheel insurance. Claiming it will cover scratch’s and light damage for a period of time immediately after delivery, ‘as you learn how to drive your new car! Cough, cough… Bullshit! 🤣 Love your work John 👍👌

[@kippen64]

False urgency is something that really annoys me.

[@TheBuzurk]

Cant wait till theyve got rid of dealers

[@standoutpunching2936]

A monopoly is hardly a better/preferable buyer's environment, though...

[@BoleDaPole]

Ah yes they tried that here with Carvana. Didn't turn out very well.

[@kimchristensen2175]

One of the reasons I keep my cars for so long: To avoid dealing with these pricks for as long as possible.

[@stevenhobbs709]

I owned a car with a Ming sticker on the rear glass, rustiest car I ever had

[@rogersmith7396]

Mine was a British Leyland laquer job. The Ming may have survived but the paint was long gone.

[@stusue9733]

Signed up for a car last week. When we saw the finance girl was free we said to the salesman well lets go pay the deposit. He actually used the word "process" when he took us to see the ming mole first(sadly for me a man). Wanted more that $5k for dash cam, paint, fabric and tint, poor guy. Still he realized it wasn't gong to happen quickly and took it pretty well, then off the the finance girl. Car has privacy glass already so they would be tinting two windows, though I was told by a friend also buying a car ATM that they have some line about the factory tint not filtering UV so they put a clear tint over the factory.......could be true ;) Wait time for the car we had in mind 18 months ago has gone from 6 months to 12/14 months. :( Still Tritons cant be all that bad lol oh and the blamed the paint needing protection on "no lead in the paint these days"

[@The_Travelling_Jonoberries]

That’s correct as I have ordered a new car that came with all privacy glass except the two from door windows but the tint was still worth $495 for the vehicle. When I contracted a reputable window tinter that has advised that the privacy has no UV protection so that use a clear film as you have indicated.

[@stusue9733]

@@The_Travelling_Jonoberries I've been doing some "research". It would seem they are being selective with the truth, BSing if you will. ;) Lots of window tinters saying things like "reducing UV that comes through the glass by XX%". What they don't say(according to some random people on the internet) is normal side glass stops 97% of UVB(the one to worry about) and about 40% of UVA(don't need to worry about). Laminated glass does better at pretty much all UVB and 80% UVA. Someone like to check my figures?

[@williammurray6921]

If they were asking me to pay for paint protection my question would be why should you want me to pay for an inferior paint finish, Then take a walk.

[@officialWWM]

It’s just like Harvey Normans “extended warranty” on electrical goods. It’s a complete waste of money, you’re protected by consumer law anyway!

[@robbo48]

I just told them that if the paint starts peeling/fading I'll just bring the vehicle back and they'll fix it for free. They looked perplexed!

[@RDDHopsing77]

I'm surprised they didn't burst out laughing.

[@tonybennett638]

Unless you're planning to keep the vehicle for 20 years don't do a thing about adding junk when you are buying one ...lots time afterwards to add stuff it you must and probably at 1/2 price.

[@gasgas2689]

That's funny. Just as you were talking about bullshit, the video changed to an advert saying "you should put Red Bull into your gas tank" 🤣

[@biggles1024]

Evening, John. :)

[@darylcheshire1618]

I should carry the car money in an attaché case and dress up in a suit and sunglasses and a hat. With two friends behind me, I snap my fingers at the guy holding the case who flips open the lid showing piles of money.

[@carlmoll3345]

Great vid John. Question. What are some of the unrecognisable tools beside and behind you? There is a red coloured power tool hanging on the wall to your left and a beige tool below on the bench. Cheers, Carl

[@ckafam]

Excellent content and great timing as I am about to buy my first new car at age 47. I was hit with this exact problem. Keep up the good work.

[@HypocriticYT]

Don’t buy any extras, besides they’ll tell you that you can still purchase their add ons months after you buy the vehicle. All a waste of your money.

[@theairstig9164]

My family bought an ex government I30 at the same time friends bought a new Yaris. Same colour. Same price. Same parking same city. Our paint is right where is was on the day we got the car. Theirs is stuffed. Totally peeled sunburn. Our car doesn’t smell like a skip bin because we occasionally cleaned it. The Yaris … killing it would be doing it a favour

[@RDDHopsing77]

Did they wash and clean their car?

[@neilshaw3517]

What about the ldv issue from qld

[@vincebagusauskas278]

But if you buy a Merc you are not buying from a dealer right?

[@jimgraham6722]

I enjoy playing games, play like you are drawn in, then at last minute offer them cash for 25% off. If they wont sell, just walk out. It makes for an entertaining day.

[@MalHanson]

Probably won't work - they get a (large) commission from the finance company, which is is usually factory owned (FMCC, GMAC etc.). It was often said that the big American companies were finance companies that just happened to make cars. GMAC (the finance co.) made more profit than GM for example.

[@Suemack24]

Makes no difference when they don’t really have any product to sell with huge 12 to 18 month waiting lists. Some dealerships have been told not to sell certain vehicles as there are none being manufactured to keep up with demand.

[@harrygatto]

The salesman's job is to maximise profits for his company and thus commission for himself, can't blame him for that. Your job is to stop him from doing it too well. Getting out of your chair and heading for the door before the deal is signed usually gets their attention.

[@kristofergobbe4838]

I was so Anti extras. I didn't want to know. Then after i bought my chinese van I couldn't find a towball on the after market. Was going to have to get extorted to get one from ldv or pay to engineer one. Hence I don't have one.

[@DrakeN-ow1im]

You might find that custom made works out cheaper than OEM.

[@tomnewham1269]

Have you tried Hayman Reese?

[@mikemc330]

A Lexus dealer in the US tried to force me to pay $5000 for ceramic coating on a new GX 460. They said it was “company policy“ to put this coating on all Luxury trim models. Insane.

[@rogersmith7396]

I would say Oh I'll have to check that with a different dealer. Adios Amigo.

[@MrWilliam.Stewart]

Not all new car sales people are crooks. But there are still a lot I'd argue. Though a burning question I have, is it Ming Mole, or Ming Moll?

[@tomnewham1269]

Ming mole.

[@adamrichards2072]

Bought a pajero sport yesterday. Was really refreshing to not have to deal with all this bullshit. Much better buying experience than when we bought our last car, a ford. Almost told them to jam it after all the bullshit they put us through.

[@The_Travelling_Jonoberries]

Hey Adam - what model? And what was your delivery timing like? I ordered a GSR in May and have been told “probably” November this year 🤪

[@adamrichards2072]

@@The_Travelling_Jonoberries Hey Brad. I got the exceed. Nov-Dec delivery. Think we got lucky with that, but then, it's not here yet...

[@The_Travelling_Jonoberries]

@@adamrichards2072 cheers Adam, must be the GSR that takes longer, which dealership?

[@adamrichards2072]

@@The_Travelling_Jonoberries Warragul, Victoria.

[@The_Travelling_Jonoberries]

@@adamrichards2072 great news, might be on the same ship as mine from Indonesia, 3-4 months was what I was originally told by the Brisbane dealership, so fingers crossed 🤞

[@codasinmurry]

Hi John, flatheads ( the fish) are ambush predators. They are generally lazy wait for something edible to pop up right in front of them that has come along with the tide/ current & woshca! I guess you could call car salesmen even car saleswomen “ flatheads “

[@shawnmoore4292]

Bloody Ming moles is so hard to say no. Stay away from them.

[@rogersmith7396]

You could go to a different dealer every day for the show. Maybe take pictures.