And shell have been contacted by Subaru shortly thereafter for a post sale interview. If she told that story, the salesman gets axed.

Recognize that the manufacturer doesnt specifically concern itself with that individual sale, a car was sold. They worry about developing brand loyalty.
For the next few sales.
I dont believe this phenomenon is as common as other people believe. I think it mostly an urban myth.
It takes but a couple minutes to determine if a prospect can actually purchase the car. Socsec number and an electronic filing for approval.
Even the laziest of sales people isnt going to forgo their commission in the face of an offer, (even if its the most minimal) if a person is standing there and says they want to buy.

Out there doing it best I can.