A Cuban resident in the United States has become a sensation on TikTok after posting a video where she shares clear and direct tips for buying a new car without falling victim to the most common dealership abuses. The user, known as Yanet-Atlanta (@yanetatlanta), recounted her experience purchasing her first vehicle and, with an ironic tone, began by saying: “People think buying a car in the United States is as simple as walking into the dealer and saying 'hello, do you have a car for me?'... that's exactly where they will get you.”
The young woman recommends arriving prepared, with an approved loan from a credit union, knowing the exact model you want, and contacting the best-rated seller beforehand. “When you arrive at the dealer, you'll already have the car you want and the salesperson you want to assist you,” she explains. Among her tips is to maintain a cool demeanor when looking at the car, even if it's the one you desire: “You should look at the car with a tremendous look of disgust… don’t show happiness or say it’s the car of your dreams.”
Another point he emphasized was the importance of not accepting everything the financier offers: “The idea is for it to touch you, not to drain you,” he remarked with a laugh while discussing unnecessary insurance and guarantees that raise the contract costs. He also advises asking about the interest rates offered by the dealer before mentioning that a loan is already approved, to compel them to compete with better terms.
Her post was met with enthusiasm from thousands of users. “This video is worth its weight in gold,” wrote one follower. “I’m paying $24,000 for a 2017 car... that was the rookie mistake of the century,” confessed another. Many commented laughingly that they “were bitten by a megalodon” instead of just dealing with a regular seller, while others expressed gratitude for the advice that helped them negotiate without fear. “If I had known this ten years ago...,” lamented more than one person.
The topic of GAP insurance, a coverage that pays the difference between the car's value and what is owed in the event of a total loss, sparked intense debate. Some consider it essential: “Thanks to that, I didn't have to pay anything when I crashed,” while others, like Yanet herself, see it as negotiable if a high down payment was made. The comments section became filled with anecdotes, warnings, and exchanged advice on how to avoid costly mistakes when financing a car.
There were also many questions about credit unions. Some didn't know what they were; others asked me to make an explanatory video. “Is that like Credit Karma?” asked one user, to which several replied: “No, that's just for checking credit. The credit union is a bank, but non-profit. That's why they offer you better rates.” Others shared comparisons: “I went to the CU and they offered me 10%. At the dealer they gave me 4.99%.”
The Cuban is not new to offering financial advice based on her experience. On previous occasions, she has explained how to manage credit cards if you're just starting out, how to create a budget to save money, or how much she pays monthly for her housing. Her posts often resonate deeply within the Cuban community trying to adapt to life in the U.S., without falling into consumer traps.
Yanet is part of a generation of creators who have found in TikTok a way to share useful knowledge with other migrants. Along this journey, other Cubans have taken different paths, such as Elieser, in Texas, who proudly defended his old 2005 Toyota Camry, saying, “It’s mine, and I don’t owe anything to anyone.” Or like Ilianys, in Houston, who washed her car with a smile and said, “Do you have a ride? Yes, but it’s mine, with papers and everything.”
While some opt for financed brand-new cars, others take pride in having modest but paid-off vehicles. The real commonality doesn’t seem to be the model of the vehicle, but rather the desire to live with financial freedom and not be swayed by appearances
Tips for Buying a New Car in the U.S.
How can I avoid pitfalls when buying a new car in the United States?
To avoid pitfalls when buying a new car in the United States, it is crucial to arrive prepared. This includes having a loan approved from a credit union, knowing the exact model you want, and contacting the best-rated dealer in advance. Additionally, it is important not to accept everything the financer offers without questioning and to compare interest rates.
What are credit unions and how do they differ from traditional banks?
Credit unions are non-profit savings and loan cooperatives that offer better interest rates on loans compared to traditional banks. Unlike these, credit unions are focused on benefiting their members, making them an attractive option for many car buyers.
Is it advisable to purchase GAP insurance when buying a new car?
The GAP insurance, which covers the difference between the value of the car and what is owed in the event of a total loss, is a debated topic. Some consider it essential if the car is fully financed, while others, like Yanet, see it as negotiable if a substantial down payment has been made. The decision will depend on personal financial circumstances and the level of risk the buyer is willing to take.
Filed under:
