ABA Family Legal Guide

Automobiles

Buying, Renting, and Leasing a Car

Buying a New Car

Who signs the car contract?

Besides you, either an authorized salesperson or a supervisor or a manager signs it. Before you sign, make sure you understand and accept all the contract terms, because you'll probably have to abide by a contract you have signed, even if you have not read it. Read the contract carefully. Ask questions. Cross out blank spaces to avoid any additions after you sign. Make sure that all the dealer's promises appear in the contract. If the dealer makes a promise orally but doesn't put it in the contract, it's extremely unlikely you'll be able to enforce that promise. Do not sign until the contract satisfies you. The contract you sign binds you, and escaping from the contract is both difficult and expensive. You can find more information about contracts in chapter 9, "Contracts and Consumer Law."