Federal and state regulators just forced a car dealer group to hand back more than $78 million after accusing it of luring customers in with prices they could never actually pay. The Federal Trade Commission and Maryland’s Attorney General announced the settlement with Lindsay Auto Group in April 2026, covering more than $75 million in consumer refunds plus a $3.1 million civil penalty.

 

The Bait-and-Switch, Spelled Out

According to the FTC’s complaint, Lindsay Automotive Group advertised artificially low vehicle prices that buyers could never actually walk out the door with. Once a customer was in the finance office, the dealership allegedly tacked on hundreds or even thousands of dollars in undisclosed mandatory fees that were never part of the advertised number.

Military Buyers Were Singled Out

One detail in the FTC’s findings stands out: the dealership’s financing requirement was applied even to military consumers who arrived with existing credit union financing already secured.

 

The Add-Ons Nobody Agreed To

Beyond the pricing scheme, the complaint alleges Lindsay Auto Group charged customers for unwanted add-ons including service plans, tire and rim protection, and guaranteed asset protection coverage without proper consumer consent.

Where the Money Goes

FTC Director Christopher Mufarrige: “Lindsay Auto misled consumers by advertising false low car prices and then adding mandatory fees and other charges during the car buying process.” Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown: “this settlement puts money back in Marylanders’ pockets and puts a stop to these predatory practices.”

Why This Should Matter Beyond Maryland

If you’re shopping right now, treat any advertised price with real skepticism until you see the full out-the-door number in writing, and treat any dealer who insists you must use their financing to get “the deal” as a red flag worth walking away from.