Women often face higher costs due to what is commonly known as the “pink tax.” This term, while not an official tax, highlights the financial discrepancies that women encounter compared to men, both in everyday products and services.
The pink tax manifests in various ways. For instance, items like menstrual products are subject to sales tax, unlike certain products for men, such as Viagra, which are tax-exempt. Moreover, products marketed to women, such as razors, deodorants, underwear, and socks, often come with a higher price tag compared to similar items for men. In some cases, these women’s products are not only more expensive but also of inferior quality, compounding the issue.
This discriminatory pricing also extends into the automotive industry, where women frequently encounter biased treatment from mechanics and car salespeople. Some mechanics have even admitted to exploiting female customers. Reports of such behavior include instances where women have been overcharged for routine services or had their cars sold without consent.
One notable case involves Cierra (@vitamincierra), who recently shared her experience at an Infiniti dealership in a viral video. Since posting, the video has garnered over 250,000 views. Cierra detailed how she walked into the dealership with a clear idea of the car she wanted, having confirmed its availability and price on the dealership’s website. However, upon arrival, the vehicle she wanted was no longer available, and she was shown a different car that still met her criteria.
@vitamincierra The car salesman really said “Clearly, you’re not a dumb girl” right before I walked out… #smh #cars #infiniti #q50 #cardealerships #sleezy #scam #knowledgeispower #stayeducated #girlsandcars
According to Cierra, the dealership quoted her a price that was $5,000 higher than what was advertised online. “I understand taxes and dealer fees, but this was the third Infiniti I was considering, and I called them out on the discrepancy,” she said. The salesperson claimed the price increase was due to her zip code, which Cierra dismissed as “complete BS,” noting that such charges typically apply to taxes, not base prices.
The salesperson then attempted to negotiate by offering a $1,000 discount for brand loyalty and an additional $1,000 off if she financed through the dealership. Cierra was wary of this offer, as financing terms may not always be favorable depending on one’s credit score and financial situation. Furthermore, the salesperson tried to impose a delivery fee, despite Cierra’s willingness to pick up the car herself, and added a $550 charge for tag and title, even though she already possessed a tag.
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“He said he could reduce the tag and title fee by $200, but I knew that a title transfer does not cost $350—it only costs $100,” Cierra said. She expressed frustration with the sales tactics, stating, “I understand he needs to earn a commission, but don’t inflate the price and then pretend you’re giving me a deal.”
The salesperson also resisted accepting the cash price Cierra offered, pushing instead for financing. “He was visibly uncomfortable when I challenged his every move,” Cierra observed. As she left the dealership, the salesman remarked, “‘Clearly, you’re not a dumb girl.'”
The reaction to Cierra’s video was robust, with many viewers sharing their own experiences and advice. “It’s pure hell to buy a car,” one commenter wrote. Another suggested, “Walk up to the sales manager and ask for a different salesperson. That will melt their brains. I used to sell cars…” Additionally, a commenter shared a tip: “When paying cash, bring a check filled out with the final price. Don’t listen to the sales pitch—just offer the price and see if they accept.”
