What is the Red Flag Detector?

A quick-reference tool that helps you identify high-pressure dealership tactics and shows what to say back.

How should I use it at the dealership?

Search the phrase they used, read the reality behind it, and use the suggested response before you agree to anything.

Red Flag Detector

At the dealership right now? Did the salesperson say something that seemed off? Search their phrase here to find out if it's a manipulation tactic—and what to say back.

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Something Feel Off?

If the dealer is acting suspicious, the car might have hidden problems. Run the VIN before you commit.

Check VIN History

What's Next?

Learn the Full Tactic

Deep-dive into how dealers manipulate you

Get the Counter-Script

Word-for-word responses to shut them down

Open Battle Plan

Your step-by-step buying checklist

Red Flag Detector

"This deal is only good today"RED FLAG

"Other people are looking at this car"RED FLAG

"Let me talk to my manager"WATCH OUT

"What monthly payment works for you?"RED FLAG

Interest rate seems high for my creditRED FLAG

Trade-in offer seems very lowRED FLAG

"Put money down to lower your lease payment"RED FLAG

"Just sign here, I'll explain later"RED FLAG

"Take the car home, financing isn't final yet"MAJOR RED FLAG

Numbers on paperwork don't match what we discussedSTOP

"This is a Dealer Certified vehicle"WATCH OUT

"We don't have a We Owe form" or no written promisesRED FLAG

"This extended warranty is a must-have"RED FLAG

Paint protection, fabric protection, VIN etchingRED FLAG

"It's only $XX more per month"RED FLAG

"Your credit score came back lower than we expected"RED FLAG

"You NEED GAP insurance for this loan"WATCH OUT

"These products come as a package - you can't remove just one"RED FLAG

"The bank requires this product to approve your loan"MAJOR RED FLAG

Contract terms don't match what the salesperson promisedSTOP

"We're closing soon, let's hurry through this paperwork"RED FLAG

"Wheel and tire protection - potholes aren't covered by warranty"RED FLAG

"Lock in today's service prices with prepaid maintenance"WATCH OUT

"Credit life insurance protects your family if something happens"RED FLAG

"This vehicle has LoJack/GPS tracking already installed"RED FLAG

"Just initial here, here, and here" (without explanation)STOP

Something Feel Off?

What's Next?