Understanding Auto Dealer Fees Which Are Real And

The retail automotive world has been altered in the past 10 years thanks to the Internet. Thankfully most consumers can now get a realistic view of dealership costs on cars (invoice) and their related fees. Sadly the Internet presentations are not always accurate or complete, but in most cases they are. There are three things to look for in dealership fees and two of them are legitimate charges. The first is a “documentation” fee which in California remains $45. This fees is authorized by the State of California to the dealership network because that network does a lot of documentation work for the state. I have encountered consumers who refuse to pay this fee, and gladly shown them the door for it. Other state fees will include vehicle registration fees and sales tax. The next fee that is a dealership charge that is usually reflected on the dealers invoice is “destination” fee. This is what the manufacturer charged the dealer to get the car to their dealership. This fee is separated on the invoice for tax reasons that benefit the manufacturer. Every dealer is going to pay this fee and so are you. Now be ready for the scams and misleading charges by dealers. A loan origination fee is illegal in some states but not all, a preparation fee might be imposed by some dealers (saying its the cost of inspecting the new car, detailing it and readying it for you) but its not required legally in any state that I know of. One of the worst is an alarm fee, etching fee or other small charge because the dealer decided to install such an item for you. Ask them to remove it and don’t pay for it unless you want it or you get them to throw it in. Buying a car is not usually a lot of fun, but with a little research on line you can make it easy. Category:Home › Autos • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 2 • You should never use after-market auto parts when maintaining or fixing your car • Should a new car be rust-proofed? • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 1 • Five safest cars in North America • How to ensure your teen drives safely after getting a license • Pros and cons of using an hydrogen generator for your car • DIY automotive maintenance: How to change the oil