FTC Press Release
FTC Warns 97 Auto Groups About Deceptive Pricing
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) officially sent warning letters to 97 auto dealership groups nationwide regarding deceptive pricing tactics. The message from the Bureau of Consumer Protection focuses on a simple, universal principle: the price consumers see in an advertisement should closely and honestly reflect the actual total price they pay at the dealership.
We at Mazda Lakeland welcome this initiative with open arms. For our team, these guidelines are not a new set of rules to adjust to since we have been following our Buy Smart – Be Happy® Promises to serve our Central Florida drivers for decades.
What the New FTC Transparency Guidelines Highlight for Car Dealers
The FTC’s recent focus aims to eliminate confusion in the new car marketplace by encouraging all automotive retailers to evaluate their upfront pricing. The guidelines emphasize clarity across several key areas:
- All-Inclusive Pricing (No Hidden Fees): Ensuring advertised prices incorporate all mandatory fees upfront.
- Clear, Universal Discounts: Presenting vehicle pricing based on incentives and rebates that are clearly outlined and easily accessible to buyers.
- Transparent Financing: Ensuring that low online prices are not conditionally tied to hidden required down payments or specific in-house lending terms unless clearly stated.
- Accurate Inventory Visibility: Maintaining live, verified digital showrooms so guests only see real, available vehicles.
A Perfect Alignment with Our Buy Smart – Be Happy® Promises
When we established our Buy Smart – Be Happy® Promises, we did it with a singular goal: to take the guesswork completely out of the car-buying process. Mazda Lakeland is thrilled to see the rest of the automotive industry moving toward this exact standard.
Here is how Mazda Lakeland’s core philosophy naturally delivers the precise transparency and peace of mind the federal regulators are advocating for:
Our Best Price First, Pure and Simple®
At Mazda Lakeland, we price our cars, not our customers®. Every vehicle is clearly marked with our Best Price First, saving you time, money, and stress. There are no hidden mathematical tricks or fine print surprises at the signing table.
Commission-Free Sales Associates
We do not work on commission. Our team’s motivation and sole goal is to help you purchase the right car for your needs.
Money Back Guarantee
We believe you should have total buying confidence. If you drive your vehicle home and realize it isn’t the perfect fit, you can bring it back within 5 days or 300 miles for a full refund or an easy exchange. It’s the ultimate guarantee that you can never buy the wrong car with us.
A Shared Vision for the Future
True clarity benefits everyone. When a marketplace functions transparently, it allows relationships between vehicle dealerships and customers to thrive on honesty and mutual respect. We are proud to stand behind these national standards today, just as we have stood behind our promises from day one.
If you’re ready to enjoy a completely transparent, stress-free path to your next vehicle, we invite you to explore our showroom online or stop by our dealership to experience the difference for yourself.
