Ep. 311: Top 5 Car Buying Fails In TFL History!
About this episode
Exploring the top five car buying fails in TFL history, this episode dives into personal anecdotes and lessons learned from purchasing and selling various vehicles. The hosts share their frustrations with the car buying process, particularly at dealerships, and offer tips for navigating both new and used car purchases. They discuss the importance of understanding the seller's background, the pitfalls of online marketplaces, and the evolving landscape of electric vehicles as a cost-effective option. With humor and candid insights, they aim to help listeners avoid common mistakes in their car buying journeys.
( https://www.alltfl.com/ ) Check out our new spot to find ALL our content, from news to videos and our podcasts! Buying a car shouldn’t feel like entering a battlefield, but Roman and Tommy have been burned enough times to know exactly how the process can go wrong. In this episode of TFL Car Chat, they break down the sneakiest dealer tactics, the hidden fees, the pressure tricks, and the rookie mistakes that have cost them time, money, and sanity over the years.
They also share real stories from their own painful purchases, explain how to spot red flags before signing anything, and offer the strategies that actually work for getting a fair deal in 2025’s chaotic car market.
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Tesla Model S
"...yesterday I just sold our 2014 Tesla Model S and that process was buying it was great, selling it was horrendous until I actually found the right buyer..."
The Tesla Model S is a high-end electric car that can drive long distances on a single charge. It's known for being fast and having lots of cool tech features like autopilot, which helps with driving.
The Tesla Model S is a fully electric luxury sedan known for its impressive range, performance, and technology features. It has been a significant player in the electric vehicle market since its launch, showcasing Tesla's innovation in battery technology and autonomous driving capabilities.
Tesla Model
"...ought and sold. So yesterday I just sold our 2014 Tesla Model S and that process was buying it was great, selli..."
battery
"We want to see what the battery was like after 100,000 miles. Yeah, and it turned out actually really good."
The battery in an electric car stores the energy needed to make it run. Its condition affects how far the car can go on a single charge.
In electric vehicles, the battery is a crucial component that stores energy to power the electric motor. Battery health is vital for the vehicle's performance and range.
high voltage system
"like a bunch of little weird, stupid stuff that broke on the car, but the high voltage system, the battery, the power train was fine."
In electric cars, the high voltage system is the part that helps power the car's motor and charge the battery. It's different from regular car parts that use lower voltage.
The high voltage system in electric vehicles refers to the electrical components that operate at a higher voltage than standard automotive systems, typically used for powering the electric motor and charging the battery.
accidents
"...The car had had no accidents. Everything worked. It had over 100,000 miles...."
Accidents mean any crashes or damage a car has been in. A car with no accidents is usually better and worth more.
In the context of car buying, 'accidents' refer to any previous collisions or damage that a vehicle has sustained. A car with no accidents is generally considered more desirable and may have a higher resale value.
supercharger
"...I took it to the supercharger and surprise, surprise, it had free supercharging. It was one of those cars that had free supercharging for life,..."
A supercharger helps cars get more power by pushing extra air into the engine. For electric cars, it means a fast way to charge the battery.
A supercharger is a device that forces more air into the engine's combustion chamber, allowing for more fuel to be burned and thus increasing power output. In electric vehicles, 'supercharging' often refers to fast charging stations that can quickly recharge the vehicle's battery.
KBB
"You can check it out on KBB. There's a lot of places you can look on Facebook and see what other people are selling it for."
KBB is a website that helps you find out how much a car is worth. It tells you the average prices for different cars based on their condition and other factors.
KBB stands for Kelley Blue Book, a trusted resource for determining the market value of vehicles. It provides pricing information based on vehicle make, model, year, condition, and mileage.
Land Rover Discovery 5
"...when we were buying our Discovery 5, there's a dealership in Denver..."
The Land Rover Discovery 5 is a fancy SUV that can handle rough roads and has a lot of space inside for passengers and cargo. It's great for families and adventures.
The Land Rover Discovery 5 is a luxury SUV known for its off-road capabilities, spacious interior, and advanced technology. It's designed for both rugged terrains and comfortable family travel.
Land Rover Range Rover
"...rices. So if they have a used vehicle, this was a Range Rover Land Rover dealership, and they have a price for ..."
The Range Rover is a fancy SUV that can drive on tough terrains but also feels very nice inside. People talk about it because it looks great and is good for both city driving and outdoor adventures.
The Land Rover Range Rover is a luxury SUV known for its off-road capabilities and opulent features. It has become a symbol of prestige and adventure, often discussed for its blend of performance and comfort.
Land Rover Discovery
"...this was what was happening with this Land Rover Discovery. It started like a 22,000 or 24, my price for it was like 21..."
The Land Rover Discovery is a type of SUV that can handle rough terrain and is also comfortable for everyday driving. It's a good choice for families or anyone who likes to go off-road.
The Land Rover Discovery is a mid-size luxury SUV known for its off-road capabilities and spacious interior. It combines ruggedness with comfort, making it popular for both adventure and family use.
Tesla Model 3
"...if you're buying a, you know, a three-year-old Model 3, they're probably going to go down 200 bucks, I don't know. But anyway, I waited..."
The Tesla Model 3 is an electric car that is popular for being affordable and having a long range. It's known for its high-tech features and good performance.
The Tesla Model 3 is a compact electric sedan known for its performance, safety, and technology features. It has become one of the best-selling electric vehicles worldwide.
Johnson's Auto Plaza
"...Johnson's Auto Plaza, right, that we bought a bunch of Rams and Chevy's for. And I know you're the same way..."
Johnson's Auto Plaza is a place where you can buy cars. The speaker trusts this dealership because they have had good experiences there.
Johnson's Auto Plaza is a car dealership known for selling various makes, including Rams and Chevrolets. It's mentioned as a trusted dealer in the context of buying cars.
Brighton Ford
"...working with Johnson's with Brighton Ford with our friends at Volkswagen out in Pennsylvania..."
Brighton Ford is a dealership where you can buy Ford cars. The speaker likes working with them because they have had good experiences.
Brighton Ford is a car dealership that specializes in selling Ford vehicles. The speaker mentions it as a reliable place to work with when buying cars.
Volkswagen
"...with our friends at Volkswagen out in Pennsylvania, right? Right. Yeah. Volkswagen of writing..."
Volkswagen is a car brand that makes many different types of vehicles. The speaker mentions a dealership where they can buy Volkswagen cars.
Volkswagen is a well-known automotive brand that produces a variety of vehicles, including cars and SUVs. The speaker refers to a specific Volkswagen dealership in Pennsylvania.
leased my Fiat
"...when I leased my free fiat, I knew they weren't going to screw me over because it was free..."
Leasing a car means you pay to use it for a certain time instead of buying it. The speaker talks about leasing a Fiat, which means they didn't own it outright.
Leasing a vehicle means you are renting it for a specific period, usually with the option to buy it at the end of the lease. The speaker mentions leasing a Fiat, which indicates a temporary ownership arrangement.
dealership markup
"...I've bought a lot of cars for the channel in a lot of different states in a lot of different ways. So I'll give you some tips right now that you can use to figure out which dealerships are good and which dealerships aren't good..."
Dealership markup is when a car dealer charges more than the price suggested by the manufacturer. This can happen if the car is very popular or hard to find, making it more expensive than expected.
Dealership markup refers to the additional amount a dealership adds to the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of a vehicle. This can occur due to demand, rarity, or other factors, and can significantly increase the final purchase price for the buyer.
MSRP
"...I've bought a lot of cars for the channel in a lot of different states in a lot of different ways. So I'll give you some tips right now that you can use to figure out which dealerships are good and which dealerships aren't good..."
MSRP is the price that car makers suggest dealers sell their cars for. It's like a starting point, but dealers can charge more or less depending on different factors.
MSRP stands for Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price, which is the price that the manufacturer recommends that the dealer sell the vehicle for. It serves as a guideline for pricing but can vary based on dealership practices and market conditions.
differential
"And if you don't have that differential, and if they put vehicles that are coming as if they have them, walk away. That's my first, that's my first."
A differential is a part of a car that helps the wheels turn at different speeds when going around corners. This is important for better control and grip on the road.
A differential is a mechanical component in a vehicle's drivetrain that allows the wheels to rotate at different speeds, especially important during turns. It helps improve traction and handling by distributing power to the wheels effectively.
Carfax
"...good dealers will show you the Monroney. And they will also, if this use car, give you a link to either a car fax or the other one, which is what's the other one?"
Carfax is a company that gives you a report about a used car's history. It tells you if the car has been in accidents or how many owners it has had, helping you decide if it's a good buy.
Carfax is a service that provides vehicle history reports, which include information about previous ownership, accidents, and service records. It's a valuable tool for potential buyers to assess the condition and history of a used car.
AutoCheck
"...the link to either a car fax or the other one, which is what's the other one? The one that that I walk away from is where they have the link to the it's the other one. It's not the car fax, it's the auto check I think it's called."
AutoCheck is another service like Carfax that gives you a report on a used car's history. It helps you find out if the car has had any major problems or changes in ownership.
AutoCheck is similar to Carfax, providing vehicle history reports that help buyers understand the background of a used car. It includes details on accidents, title changes, and other significant events in the car's history.
Chevrolet Corvette
"... in our faces when we bought that zero one C four Corvette. We can talk about that in a second. But in gener..."
The Corvette is a fast and stylish sports car made by Chevrolet. It's popular because it offers a lot of power and fun for the price compared to other sports cars.
The Chevrolet Corvette is an iconic American sports car known for its powerful performance and sleek design. It has a rich history and is often celebrated for its value as a high-performance vehicle.
GM
"...don't just think, Well, I want to go to my local Honda dealer or my local GM dealer..."
GM stands for General Motors, a big car company that makes many different brands of cars, like Chevrolet and Cadillac. They are known for making a lot of different types of vehicles.
General Motors (GM) is one of the largest automotive manufacturers in the world, producing a variety of vehicles under several brands, including Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac. They are known for their innovation and wide range of vehicle offerings.
buying a used car out of state
"...be careful of that. If you're buying a used car out of state, then in Colorado, these are these rules vary..."
When you buy a used car from another state, there are special rules you need to follow. These rules can include inspections and taxes that are different from your home state.
Buying a used car out of state involves specific regulations and procedures that can differ from state to state. This may include inspections, emissions tests, and tax implications that buyers should be aware of before making a purchase.
refundable deposit
"...if you want to buy it, then you have to put down a $500 deposit. And I wanted to know if that deposit was refundable or not..."
A refundable deposit is money you pay to hold a car, which you can get back if you change your mind about buying it. It helps the seller know you're serious about the purchase.
A refundable deposit is a sum of money paid upfront that can be returned to the buyer if they decide not to proceed with the purchase. This is common in car transactions to secure a vehicle while the buyer makes a decision.
Dodge Vipers
"...l, I don't, first of all, like the biggest pit of vipers I could ever think of buying a car from would be ..."
The Viper is a super-fast sports car made by Dodge that has a really powerful engine. It's talked about because it's exciting to drive but can be tricky to handle.
The Dodge Viper is a high-performance sports car known for its powerful V10 engine and aggressive styling. It has a cult following and is often discussed for its raw performance and driving experience.
certificate of title
"...he actually provided us with the title and he provided us in Colorado. You have to, if you're a seller, whether private or commercial, you have to provide on a used car the small certificate..."
A certificate of title is a paper that shows who owns a car. When you buy a used car, you need this paper to make sure the seller really owns it and can sell it to you.
A certificate of title is a legal document that proves ownership of a vehicle. When buying a used car, it's essential to receive this document to ensure that the seller has the right to sell the vehicle and that it is not stolen or has liens against it.
Honda Crv
"...ples. If you buy a $50,000 car, let's say you buy Honda CRV $40,000 to lease that and to buy it, the insuranc..."
The Honda CR-V is a small SUV that's great for families because it has a lot of space and is known to last a long time. Many people like it because it's easy to drive and saves on gas.
The Honda CR-V is a compact SUV that is well-regarded for its reliability, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. It is a popular choice among families and individuals seeking a practical vehicle.
Honda Accord
"instead of buying a 2025 Accord like we did for 1500 bucks. Yeah, that's a fun op..."
The Honda Accord is a popular car that many people choose because it's comfortable and lasts a long time. It's a good option for anyone looking for a reliable vehicle.
The Honda Accord is a midsize sedan known for its comfort, reliability, and strong resale value. It has been a staple in the automotive market for decades, often praised for its balanced performance and spacious interior.
Jeep Wranglers
"...bout. Hold on there though. What car? I mean Jeep Wranglers, I agree, right? If you go on Defender, it's goin..."
The Jeep Wrangler is a tough SUV that can go off-road and handle rough trails. People love it for its unique look and the fun of driving it in nature.
The Jeep Wrangler is a rugged SUV known for its off-road capabilities and distinctive design. It has a loyal following among outdoor enthusiasts and is often discussed for its versatility and fun driving experience.
Ford Bronco Sports
"...There's some cars like obviously some even like a Bronco sports way cheaper. The courage guys know more about thi..."
The Bronco Sport is a small SUV that can handle rough roads and is designed for outdoor adventures. It's popular because it looks cool and is fun to drive.
The Ford Bronco Sport is a compact SUV that combines rugged off-road capability with modern technology and comfort. It pays homage to the classic Bronco while appealing to a new generation of adventure seekers.
Toyota Rav4
"...f wants the same car, which is going to be like a RAV4, a CRV, right? These are the most popular cars in..."
The RAV4 is a small SUV from Toyota that's popular because it's reliable and has a lot of room inside. It's a great choice for families or anyone needing extra space.
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV that combines practicality with reliability, making it one of the best-selling vehicles in its class. It offers a spacious interior and good fuel efficiency, appealing to a wide range of buyers.
Granger
"So one of our sponsors, Full Disclosure is Granger and they provide extended warranty."
Granger is a company that sells extra insurance for cars, helping people pay for repairs after their original car warranty is over.
Granger is a company that offers extended warranties for vehicles, providing coverage once the manufacturer's warranty expires. They are known for their customer service and reliability.
butterfly valve
"...we had one of those little butterfly valves that changes the exhaust note go out. There was a $1,500 repair."
A butterfly valve helps control the sound of the car's exhaust. If it breaks, it can be expensive to fix, like the $1,500 repair mentioned here.
A butterfly valve is a type of valve that regulates airflow in the exhaust system, allowing for changes in the exhaust note and performance of the vehicle. When it fails, it can lead to costly repairs, as seen in this context.
traction control
"It's going to have ABS, traction control, stability control. It will likely have a backup camera if it's 15 and newer."
Traction control helps your car keep grip on the road when it's slippery. It stops the wheels from spinning too much when you try to accelerate.
Traction control is a system that helps prevent wheel spin during acceleration by reducing engine power or applying brakes to specific wheels. It enhances vehicle stability and control, especially on slippery surfaces.
ABS
"It's going to have ABS, traction control, stability control. It will likely have a backup camera if it's 15 and newer."
ABS is a system that helps your car stop without skidding. It makes sure the wheels keep turning so you can still steer while braking hard.
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is a safety feature that prevents the wheels from locking up during braking, helping maintain steering control and stability. It is especially useful in slippery conditions.
stability control
"It's going to have ABS, traction control, stability control. It will likely have a backup camera if it's 15 and newer."
Stability control helps keep your car from sliding around when you turn quickly or hit a slippery spot. It helps you stay in control of the vehicle.
Stability control is a safety feature that helps prevent skidding and loss of control during sharp turns or sudden maneuvers. It automatically applies brakes to individual wheels to help keep the vehicle on its intended path.
Toyota Camry
"... a Tesla. After that, it's the Honda cord and the Camry, which is kind of ironic when you think about it...."
The Camry is a popular car that many people trust because it's comfortable and lasts a long time. It's a good option for anyone looking for a dependable vehicle.
The Toyota Camry is a midsize sedan known for its reliability, comfort, and fuel efficiency. It has been a top seller in its segment for many years, often highlighted for its value and practicality.
Toyota Land Cruiser
"... like these slightly used cars look up 200 series Land Cruiser. That's going to be tricky. There you go. Nice. O..."
The Land Cruiser is a big, tough SUV that can handle rough roads and is built to last. People talk about it because it's great for adventures and can go almost anywhere.
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a full-size SUV renowned for its durability and off-road prowess. It has a strong reputation for reliability and is often discussed for its capability in challenging terrains.
Ford Mustang GT
"...'re seeing. And I think with the GT, with the new Mustang GT GT, I think you are seeing it with all the GT thr..."
The Mustang GT is a fast sports car from Ford that's famous for its power and cool looks. It's popular among car enthusiasts who love speed and style.
The Ford Mustang GT is a performance-oriented version of the iconic Mustang, known for its powerful engines and sporty design. It represents American muscle car heritage and is often discussed for its performance and cultural significance.
Lucid Air
"... I remember we had the Lucid Grand Touring the GT air. And I fell in love with that car. It was $138,00..."
The Lucid Air is a fancy electric car that can go really far on a single charge. People talk about it because it has a lot of high-tech features and a stylish design.
The Lucid Air is a luxury electric sedan that boasts impressive range and performance, positioning itself as a competitor to high-end electric vehicles like Tesla. It is often discussed for its innovative technology and luxurious features.
Nissan Leaf
"...e use cry wouldn't buy and we have bought it is a leaf because the batteries were in climate control. Ye..."
The Leaf is a small electric car that runs on batteries instead of gas. It's popular because it's good for the environment and can save you money on fuel.
The Nissan Leaf is an all-electric hatchback that has gained popularity for its eco-friendliness and practicality. It is often discussed for its role in promoting electric vehicles and reducing carbon footprints.
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