Shopping for a car can be tough, especially for women. Many dealerships are male-dominated, and stories of shady sales tactics aren’t rare. This was highlighted recently when a woman named Em shared a troubling encounter she had with a salesman.
In a TikTok video that gained over 5.2 million views, Em described her experience at Metro Honda in Montclair, California. She claimed a salesman made uncomfortable advances and pressured her for a date instead of focusing on the sale. Em stated, “He refused to sell me a car because I wouldn’t go out with him.” When she pushed back, he allegedly raised the price of the car by $10,000.
As the video unfolds, we see the salesman ludicrously claim that her acceptance of a date was required. “It’s part of the entrance fee,” he insisted. Em and her friend confronted him, expressing their discomfort. They highlighted that buying a car involves serious financial decisions, and his behavior was completely unprofessional.
In a follow-up, Em clarified that while she tries to be friendly, it doesn’t mean she was flirting. This situation isn’t just an isolated incident. Studies show that women often face bias in car sales. A significant study from the 90s revealed that women typically pay higher prices than men for the same cars. More recent research indicates that women face discrimination not just in price but also in financing, often referred to as the “pink tax.” This term describes how women can pay substantially more—sometimes up to 39.4% more—on auto loans than men.
Social media users reacted strongly to Em’s ordeal. Many voiced their support, with comments like, “He was harassing you.” This demonstrates a growing awareness of these issues and a demand for change.
For anyone in the market for a car, it’s essential to be informed and advocate for yourself. Gender bias is prevalent, but awareness can help combat it. As Em’s story shows, it’s crucial to push back against unprofessional behavior and ensure that buying a car is a positive experience for everyone.
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