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Q: What is "auto dealer fraud"?

A: "Auto dealer fraud" is a term that describes deceptive and unlawful practices used by automobile dealers, at almost any stage of the vehicle purchase process -- from advertising, to negotiation of vehicle pricing and financing terms. Examples of auto dealer fraud include "bait and switch" advertising practices, deceptive inflation of vehicle prices, and failure to disclose information about a vehicle.

Q: How does a "bait and switch" occur?

A: "Bait and switch" sales tactics are a form of false or deceptive advertising, in which a car dealer lures potential buyers to the dealership by advertising one vehicle at a certain price, then tells the customer that the particular vehicle is no longer available before using aggressive tactics to sell a different, more expensive vehicle (or the advertised vehicle at a price higher than the advertised price).

Q: What kinds of things must used car dealers disclose about a used vehicle that is being offered for sale?