Car dealerships are where consumers shop for vehicles. They provide test drives, vehicle information, and instant credit approval. They offer competitive prices and a variety of financing options, such as dealer loans, leasing, and manufacturer incentives. They also sell a wide variety of extras, such as tire protection, rustproofing, and warranty plans.
Dealerships must follow state and federal laws. These include the dealer licensing laws based on their location, the Federal Trade Commission’s Used Car Lemon Law, and your state’s used car dealership regulations. Dealerships must also pass a dealer certification, in which they certify that the car is “in condition and repair to render safe and adequate service upon the highway.”
If you are buying a new vehicle, ask the dealer what the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) is. This number reflects the vehicle’s trim level, entertainment systems, safety features, and other extras. Ask the dealer what fees are included in the sale price, such as title, license, registration, documentation, and conveyance fees.
For a pre-owned vehicle, ask the dealer where they got it. Some dealers buy their inventory from customers who trade in their old cars, but others get them directly from the manufacturer or at auction.
Ask the dealership if they offer any specials on the car you’re interested in, such as a trade-in discount or a down payment credit. Also, ask what warranties come with the vehicle, such as powertrain or bumper-to-bumper. You may be able to save money by purchasing a certified pre-owned (CPO) car, which comes with an additional factory warranty on top of the existing warranties. car dealership