Know the moves before you walk in.
Plain-English guides to the parts of a car deal where money hides, each with the exact words to use at the dealership.
How to get a real out-the-door price
The out-the-door price is the only number that matters. Here is what it includes, how to ask for it in writing, and the line items to question before you sign.
Read guide →FinancingWas your car loan rate marked up?
When you finance at the dealer, the rate you're offered can be higher than what the lender approved. Learn how dealer rate markup works and how to ask for the buy rate.
Read guide →Add-onsDealer add-ons you can say no to
Nitrogen tires, VIN etching, paint protection, market adjustments: how to spot dealer add-ons on your worksheet, which are optional, and exactly what to say to remove them.
Read guide →Finance productsIs dealer GAP coverage worth it?
GAP can protect you if you owe more than the car is worth, but the dealer price is often negotiable and you may find it cheaper elsewhere. Here's how to decide and what to ask.
Read guide →Finance productsExtended warranties at the dealer: what to check
Extended warranties (service contracts) sold in the finance office are optional and the price is usually negotiable. Here's what to read, what to ask and when to walk away.
Read guide →TexasTexas dealer doc fee: the $225 rule
In Texas, a dealer documentary fee of $225 or less is presumed reasonable. Here's what the rule says, when a dealer can charge more, and what to ask if your doc fee is higher.
Read guide →