Are you shopping for a car in Utah? You might find a great online deal that catches your eye. But what happens if you visit the dealership and the car is nowhere to be found? Or maybe the dealer refuses to honor the advertised price. This practice is known as a “bait and switch.” It is illegal under Utah Administrative Code Rule R877-23V.

What Utah Law Says About Bait and Switch

Utah has strict advertising rules for motor vehicle dealers. Under Rule R877-23V-7, “Bait advertising and selling practices may not be used.” The rule is very specific about dealer inventory and advertising transparency. The law states, “A motor vehicle advertised at a specific price shall be in the possession of the advertiser at the address given.” This means a dealer cannot lure you with a fake car.

The dealer must also treat the advertised vehicle like a genuine offer. The law explicitly requires that the vehicle “shall be willingly shown, demonstrated and sold.” A dealership cannot refuse to show you the car. They also cannot refuse to sell it at the advertised price.

Pricing and Vehicle Options

Another tactic involves changing the price or features. Rule R877-23V ensures that advertised prices are completely transparent. The advertised price must include all dealer preparation and handling charges. Dealers cannot suddenly add mandatory hidden fees to the advertised price.

Also, the car on the lot must match the advertisement. If an ad lists specific options, the vehicle must actually have them.

Warning Signs and Your Right to See Records

How do you know if you are facing a bait and switch? Watch out for specific dealership warning signs. One indicator is when the dealer claims the advertised car just sold. They might then steer you to a more expensive option. But you have a legal right to verify their claims.

What happens if they say the car is already sold? The rule says the dealer must “upon request of any prospective purchaser, show sales records of the advertised motor vehicle.” You can request this proof directly from the dealership. If they refuse to show these records, they might be hiding a violation.

Protect Your Rights with Head Law

Buying a car should always be an honest and transparent process. You do not have to accept invalid excuses from dealerships. Kep a screenshot or copy of the car advertisement. Keep careful notes of your conversation with the dealership staff. Ask for the sales records if they claim the car is sold.

If a dealer refuses to follow the law, you can take action. At Head Law, we focus on protecting consumers from deceptive business practices. If you believe a dealer used a bait and switch, contact Head Law today. We will review the facts of your case. We can help hold the dealership accountable and protect your rights as a Utah consumer.