Beware when trading in at Fitzmall

Let's be the Used Car Manager for a moment. He is presented with an "elderly" car with a Check Engine Light on. He has no idea what it will cost to repair. He is going to be very conservative with his offer. If he "wins" with the gascap, he got a good deal. If he "loses" with a converter, he got a bad deal. He doesn't need the car (or unknown repair headache). With all due respect to the OP, customers try to "pull" the same stuff on dealers as we, as customers, claim the used car salesmen pull on us. I'm sure this isn't the case with the OP's car, but the dealer doesn't know that.

I probably would have shown up with a Carmax offer in hand and used that to counter any offer from the dealer. Of course, that's 20-20 hindsight.

I've travelled from Texas to buy a car from Fitzmall and found them to be honorable. I've also recommended them to others here on the Board. I have no experience with a trade in there.

In addition to venting a bit, think the OP's message is good...... Use caution in valuing you tradein at Fitzmall, just like you would anywhere else!

 

I know what you mean re: good reputation, the founder "Fitz" is on TV/radio all the time either with ads or on local talk shows. He has a great sounding, friendly gravel voice and demeanor. Bottom line is you should have got about $750 for the car. I didn't try Fitz for my Prius, but I did have one unpleasant Beltway dealer experience, so I walked out of that place, and headed over to Miller Toyota in Manassass. Got $750 for a clunker minivan trade-in. I would not pay $4000 for that vintage Corolla, having had one.