Hello Tony

The guy insisted that they just needed my information and that even though the form is a credit application he insisted he's just collecting the information he ABSOLUTELY MUST have before he can sell me a car.

Well, I just learned there's a "credit inquiry" placed by them on my credit report, and after about two weeks my check did go through finally.

If they're just trying to find out if my check is likely to bounce, do they have the right to run a full credit check on me? Is it really required that I fill out the credit application as the salesman said?

I'm aware I'm in total control, however I really didn't know what was required. Seems like they just put a dent in my credit report. How nice of them.

Thanks again

Answer:

It is absolutely NOT required, nor is it standard practice for any company to run a credit report just because you are paying by check.

It is also illegal to run you credit report without your consent. Now granted, you did sign a credit application which technically is agreeing to a credit check however, in this case the finance guy lied to you and coerced you into signing the credit application.

You had no intention of allowing them to run your credit. This is as close to breaking the law as you can get.

If I were you I would file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau and with your state's Attorney General's office. These people cannot be allowed to continually get away with these abuses. Somebody has to stand up to them.

By the way, there is not a single instance that I know of where it is absolutely necessary to have you fill out a credit app just because they are selling you a car. They were clearly trying to convert you from being a cash buyer to financing, because they make a commission on arranging the financing.

Suppose you were buying a car from a private individual; Would you have to fill out a credit app just because this person is selling you a car? Of course not!

This finance guy in this dealership and his bosses are all slimeballs.

Take care,

Tony Iorio