I got a phone call today from the Lexus dealership where I purchased my 2014 RX 350. They asked me if I was interested in selling it back to them because they are "low on inventory" of my model.

I asked them if there was any special deal on a new vehicle if I did this, but they basically said no and that I could bring my car in to have it appraised if I wanted to find out how much I'd have to spend on a new vehicle after I sell my current vehicle back to them.

Has anyone ever done this before or know more specifics about how it works? The way they proposed it, it sounds like I'd be doing them a favor more than they'd be doing me a favor, so I'm trying to figure out what exactly my motivation is here. Why should I sell it back to them if they aren't going to offer me any special deal?

 

Sounds like they are just trolling for dollars. They made money on your initial purchase. If they can talk you into trading, they'll make money on your trade and your next purchase, too. Great deal. For them.

Even if they do offer you a "special deal", it's not special if they are willing to make it.

Mark

 

yes - Toyota dealerships do the same thing. They always call stating they have people interested in my specific car. It's BS. When you're ready to sell or trade, then do it.

 

I get the same emails and letters in the mail from BMW. Probably 2-3 times per year. But my BMW is now going on 8 years old, yet the letter is exactly the same each time.

The dealer is trolling for new business. If you want to take the bait because you're in the market anyway, I say no harm done. However, if you think this is something special, I don't think it is.

 

I get letters like this from the Kia dealer about my Sportage. I guess with Kia they can't afford the phone call. :-)

 

They are trolling, trying to buy low and sell high. They usually make make more on used cars than new cars.

 

If they are truly low in stock, I'm sure they can buy RX from other dealers. I would toss that letter away.

 

If they are low on inventory, you trade yours in, drive a new one out, that leaves the inventory the same. I agree with those that said they are trolling for dollars. I get those letters asking for my '04 Highlander after I take it in for an oil change.
Ray A.

 

This type of sales practice is used by most brands.. Just a tactic to try and get you in the dealership. I get these letters from Acura, Lexus, Ford, Infiniti etc all the time..