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If you’re planning to buy a car this weekend, you might want to reconsider. A major cyberattack has crippled the dealership management systems of CDK Global, affecting thousands of dealerships across the United States and Canada. This disruption is creating chaos at dealerships, with impacts likely lasting through the weekend and potentially into next week. Should you buy a car right now? Here’s why this weekend could be the worst time in recent memory to be stuck at a dealership.
The 2024 Dealership Cyberattack and Its Impact
CDK Global, a major provider of dealership management systems, experienced a cyberattack on June 19, forcing the company to shut down its car dealership software in the U.S. and Canada. This escalation comes just a day after CDK had mostly resolved issues from the attack.
In a statement, CDK alerted its customers: “We continue to act out of caution, and to protect our customers, we have taken down most of our systems. Do not attempt to access the DMS until we can confirm the system is secure. At this time, we do not have an estimated time frame for resolution and therefore our dealers’ systems will not be available for several days.”
Disruption Across Dealerships
CDK’s systems are used by nearly 15,000 auto dealership locations. This shutdown threatens to disrupt thousands of new-vehicle transactions right in the heart of stellar Fourth of July sales. Dealers rely on CDK’s systems for critical functions such as customer relationship management, sales processing, and inventory management. Without these systems, many dealerships are reverting to manual processes, causing long waits for customers, and even the potential for errors.
Todd Szott of Szott Auto Group in Detroit talked to Automotive News about the situation. “We’re kind of going back to old-school pen and paper and finding other systems to do some of the things that we do with the CDK products, as well as just manual processes to continue to serve our customers.”
Avoid Dealerships This Weekend, Or Expect to Wait
Given the widespread impact of the cyberattack, car shoppers should expect a chaotic situation at dealerships. Many dealers are unable to finalize sales, register plates, or complete title work. Some are even struggling to perform basic service tasks due to the inability to locate parts in their systems.
When will the situation be resolved? Car dealerships should be back to normal by the end of the coming week at the latest. Hopefully, much sooner.
Stay informed, stay patient, and consider ‘walking the lot’ instead of heading out with the intent to buy. Unless you’re especially patient, this weekend is the worst time to buy a car.
Check back for the latest updates on the CDK car dealership cyberattack.
In 2022, USAA discontinued their renowned car buying service, leaving many members searching for alternative solutions. First announced in 2020, the changes brought an end to the popular service and TrueCar partnership. So, what are the best alternatives to USAA’s car buying service? We’ll explore three top car concierge services available in 2024.
#1 CarEdge
CarEdge is known for pro-consumer car buying services that take the hassle out of getting a new ride. Many past customers say that CarEdge Concierge is the easiest way to buy a car in 2024.
Pros
Your personal Concierge listens to your needs, finds the perfect car, and negotiates on your behalf
Customers save $3,000 on average with expert negotiation
Members of Navy Federal Credit Union have access to a TrueCar–powered online car search that features upfront pricing. This is a good option for veterans, service members, and their families. However, Navy Federal’s car buying service lacks personalized service and negotiability.
Pros
Free with Navy Federal Credit Union membership. Members must have a connection to the armed forces.
Although Costco is paid by participating dealers, members get access to a trusted dealer network. However, some complain of the usual dealership hassles.
The Best Car Buying Services Offer Unique Strengths
By comparing these alternatives to the USAA car buying service, you can find the best car buying service that fits your needs. Car buyers looking for personalized, pro-consumer service from an experienced Concierge should look no further than CarEdge. Veterans and service members have access to Navy Federal’s car buying service. Costco members might want to consider the wholesaler’s Auto Program but should understand its limitations. No matter which route you choose, the great news is that it’s easier than ever before to come out on top with a car buying service.
Historically a prime time for deals, Fourth of July truck sales are shaping up to be particularly great in 2024. This year, elevated levels of new truck inventory and the hefty floorplanning costs faced by dealers are creating the perfect storm for big discounts, including zero percent financing. If you’re in the market for a new ride and can’t afford to wait for year-end deals, now could be your shot at a bargain. These are the best Fourth of July truck deals for 2024, available today.
Note: We’ve included nationwide inventory numbers, which reflect how long it would take to sell all existing inventory at current selling rates. With this auto industry metric, the long-term average is around 60-80 days of supply. As you’ll notice, truck inventory is above average in 2024.
Fourth of July Offer: 1.9% APR or $6,000 cash allowance with a trade-in
The best cash incentives right now are for Sierra 1500 models equipped with Turbomax. Save up to $7,850 on these trucks, but keep in mind that $2,500 of that is GMC loyalty cash for current owners or lessees.
Fourth of July Offer: $5,750 cash offer w/ trade-in for the 2024 Crew Cab LT 5.3L
With 102 days of market supply, there’s an abundance of 2024 Silverado 1500s on Chevy dealer lots. This huge cash offer is a great deal for truck fans.
Fourth of July Offer: 0% APR financing for 60 months + up to $3,590 in cash savings
Nissan is fighting hard for truck market share in the U.S., with limited success. June’s zero percent financing offer is the best truck deal today. Plus, there are various cash offers that can total up to $3,590 in savings. Note that some of the cash incentives are only available as loyalty cash to current Nissan or Infiniti owners and lessees.
Ram is offering big cash offers in June in preparation for the Fourth of July weekend truck sales. Especially attractive is the free inclusion of the Big Horn package, a $3,125 value.
Lease the newly redesigned 2024 Tacoma SR5 for $379/month for 36 months with $4,999 due at signing. This lease offer includes 10,000 miles per year. Don’t expect much leverage when attempting to negotiate Tacoma prices. This is a popular truck, and Toyota is holding inventory low.
Fourth of July truck sales present a rare opportunity to secure fantastic deals on new pickups. From low APR offers to big cash discounts, the savings are out there if you know where to look.
How does local market data sound?Unlock CarEdge Insights today for unmatched negotiation leverage. Ready for a personalized, hands-off car buying experience? Skip the dealership with CarEdge Concierge, the #1 car buying service in America. Your CarEdge consumer advocates are here to take the pain out of car buying, for good!
As we approach the Fourth of July holiday weekend (July 4 – July 7), car shoppers have a golden opportunity to take advantage of big discounts on SUVs and crossovers. Historically a prime time for car deals, 2024’s Fourth of July sales are poised to be exceptionally appealing. Today, new car inventory is higher than in recent years, and hefty floorplanning costs faced by dealers are creating the perfect storm for big bargains. It’s a buyer’s market! Here are the best Fourth of July SUV deals for 2024.
Mazda SUV Specials
As Mazda’s popularity continues to soar, the automaker is not easing up. This July 4th, Mazda has not one, not two, but four SUVs with low APR offers.
Still riding the wave of awards, having won the 2024 World Car of the Year and 2024 World Electric Vehicle honors, Kia is having a tough time convincing American drivers that electric three-row SUVs are worth buying. However, for any interested shoppers today, that means shockingly great deals abound.
Fourth of July offer: This month, finance the 2024 Kia EV9 at 0% APR for 48 months, with low APR offers available for longer loan terms too. Better yet, enjoy a hefty $9,000 cash discount. This massive cash offer is intended to replace the federal EV tax credit, which the EV9 does not qualify for.
This affordable crossover from Nissan is available with zero percent financing for a limited time. If you’re looking for a SUV under $30,000, this could be the one!
Whether you’re wanting a gas-powered crossover or a top-rated electric SUV, VW is bringing the deals this month. Rarely do we see zero percent financing offers for 60 or even 72 months. These deals are worth a test drive.
Fourth of July SUV Specials Are Just the Beginning
The Fourth of July sales event in 2024 presents a great opportunity to secure fantastic deals on a wide range of SUVs and crossovers. Whether you’re looking for zero percent financing or cash discounts, the savings are out there if you know where to look.
How does local market data sound? Unlock CarEdge Insights today for unmatched negotiation leverage. Ready for a personalized, hands-off car buying experience? Skip the dealership with CarEdge Concierge, the #1 car buying service in America. Your CarEdge consumer advocates are here to take the pain out of car buying, for good!
In June 2024, the New York Attorney General’s office reached settlements with two Long Island Nissan dealerships, requiring them to pay over $350,000 in restitution and penalties for allegedly adding bogus fees and improperly raising prices on leased vehicles that consumers wanted to buy post-lease. Other Nissan dealerships may have employed similar tactics. Here’s what you need to know about the car lease buyout settlement, and what you can do to find out if you’re impacted by these or similar fraudulent lease charges.
Nissan Lease-End Settlement: Two NY Dealerships Fined, Will Pay Restitution
The two dealerships involved are Nissan 112 of Patchogue and South Shore Nissan of Amityville. An investigation by the New York Attorney General’s office revealed that between 2020 and 2023, consumers who leased Nissan vehicles and opted to buy them at the end of their lease terms were substantially overcharged. The dealerships allegedly added miscellaneous fees and inflated vehicle prices on consumer invoices.
This practice was found to be particularly egregious at Nissan 112, which had previously agreed in 2015 to cease issuing deceptive invoices bundling multiple after-sale products without clear price disclosure.
The NY car dealership settlements come as part of broader efforts by Attorney General Letitia James to crack down on deceptive practices in the auto industry. The details of the fines and restitution payments to impacted customers are intended to punish the violators while also deterring other dealerships from defrauding customers in the future.
South Shore Nissan: The dealership will pay $33,191 in restitution to 120 consumers and a $31,200 penalty for allegedly overcharging consumers.
Nissan 112: This dealership will pay $39,390 in restitution to 103 consumers and a $250,000 penalty for allegedly overcharging consumers and violating a prior settlement from 2015.
“Today we are putting money back in the pockets of defrauded New Yorkers and reminding car dealers to steer clear of violating our laws and deceiving consumers,” said Attorney General Letitia James in a statement shared by Automotive News.
The settlements with these two dealerships follow an April announcement where five other New York Nissan dealerships agreed to pay $2 million to settle similar allegations. These dealerships are Baron Nissan in Greenvale, Nissan of Westbury, Kings Nissan in Brooklyn, Nissan of Queens in Ozone Park, and Nissan of Staten Island.
What Drivers of Leased Cars Can Do
If you are leasing a car and nearing the end of your lease, it’s important to be aware of potential fees and price hikes. This is especially true if you’ve leased a Nissan in recent years. Here’s what you can do to check if you may be impacted and how to pursue a resolution:
Steps to Check if You’re Impacted
Review your Lease Agreement: Carefully read your lease agreement to understand the terms of your lease-end purchase option. Find out exactly how much you should pay, plus taxes and required fees, before going to the dealership. Use this free guide to understanding your lease agreement.
Inspect invoices and receipts: When you decide to buy your leased vehicle, scrutinize all invoices and receipts for any unexpected or miscellaneous fees. These are fees you should never pay.
Compare prices: Check the agreed-upon buyout price in your lease agreement against the final price on the invoice. Any substantial increase should be questioned.
Consult consumer protection resources: Noticing discrepancies in your lease contract? If not solution is reached with the dealership, look for guidance from consumer protection agencies like your Attorney General’s Office or legal resources to understand your rights.
If needed, file a complaint: If the dealership is uncooperative or you suspect fraudulent charges, file a complaint with your state’s attorney general’s office or the consumer protection division.
Monitor settlements: Stay informed about settlements and restitution programs similar to the ones announced by the New York Attorney General’s office. You might be eligible for restitution if your dealership is involved in such practices.
Conclusion: Stay Vigilant, and Check Your Car Lease Buyout Contract
The recent actions by the New York Attorney General’s office highlight the importance of vigilance when dealing with lease-end purchases. By being aware of potential deceptive practices and knowing how to address them, consumers can protect themselves and potentially recover any undue charges.
CarEdge Insights
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