15 Secrets to Buying a Used Car

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8. The Dealership Doesn’t Want You to Know Your Credit Score

If you do end up using the dealership’s recommending financing, arm yourself with knowledge first. The dealership will run a credit report on you when you apply, but they won’t always be eager to share the results with you. In some cases, the dealer will even lead you to believe that your credit is worse than it really is as a way to strong-arm you into a less-than-ideal financing option.

Take the time to print out your credit report before you go shopping. You’re entitled to one free credit check per year. Otherwise, spend the $20 to get one, and review it carefully for mistakes. Fix any issues that may be holding you back before stepping foot in the door. Show your dealer that you know exactly where you stand with the credit bureaus to shut down any attempts to pull the wool over your eyes.