Buying New
Build the transaction from an exact VIN, a written itemized out-the-door quote, and complete financing terms. Keep the vehicle price, trade, credit, and optional products visible as separate decisions.
Last reviewed: September 5, 2026. Review notes and sources. Rules and fees can vary by state, lender, dealer, and vehicle.
Anchor the quote to one vehicle
Ask the seller to confirm the exact VIN, stock number, equipment, and availability in writing. Match that vehicle to its window sticker: MSRP is the manufacturer's suggested price, not a promised transaction price. List dealer-installed products or adjustments separately.
For each advertised offer, verify eligibility and expiration together with any required financing, down payment, or other conditions. The FTC recommends checking the offer's qualifications and getting the out-the-door price in writing before visiting. Read the FTC's dealer-ad guidance.
Written price
Request a written itemized out-the-door quote showing the vehicle price, taxes, fees, and each add-on.
Written credit
Compare APR, amount financed, term, finance charge, and total of payments with any outside offer.
Delivery check
Inspect and test drive the exact vehicle before accepting it, then match its VIN and equipment to the documents.
New Car Battle Plan
Check off each step and keep the written record with you.
Prepare Your Numbers
Set your requirements and financing benchmark before contacting sellers.
Delivery and first-month record
Leave with the complete documents and a dated list of what still needs to happen. Use a separate row in your notes for each promise or deadline.
- For a financed purchase, identify the creditor and any remaining financing or delivery condition before taking the vehicle. Check for unresolved blanks and obtain the signed documents.
- Confirm insurance for the exact VIN is effective before possession. Keep the written coverage confirmation, delivery condition photos, keys, and promised-equipment list.
- If you traded a financed car, check with the old lender about a week later that the payoff arrived. Verify your first payment, title/registration, promised work, and any product refund separately.
Notes stay in this open page only. Copy, download, or print before leaving. Record document names or reference numbers; keep account numbers, credit reports, and identity documents in your own secure files.
Fill in this record
VIN, mileage, date/time, seller, signed document list, condition photos, keys, accessories, and missing items.
Company, verified contact, confirmed terms, pending approval or delivery conditions, and confirmation date.
Insurer, coverage effective date/time, proof received, and lender/lessor requirements confirmed.
Written policy, exact deadline/mileage, required notice method, fees, warranty or Buyers Guide, and product terms.
Old lender, expected payoff date, actual confirmation, remaining balance, and unresolved action. Write not applicable if none.
Verified servicer, amount, due date, payment method, and confirmation that any autopay is active.
Responsible party, agency/forms, receipts, expected completion, temporary permit expiry, and follow-up date.
Each item, written commitment or cancellation request, deadline, responsible person, refund recipient, and completion/account-credit evidence.
Sources & Further Reading
- FTC: Car Dealer Ads and Promotions
- CFPB: What Factors into the Price of a Vehicle?
- CFPB: Truth in Lending Disclosure for an Auto Loan
Notes: Sources are provided for general education. Rules can vary by state and change over time.
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Notes: Deal rules and fee limits can vary by state. Always confirm with local DMV or consumer protection guidance.