Car Buying Guides & Tips

Expert advice to help you make smarter car buying decisions. From budget planning to ownership costs, we've got you covered.

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Dealer Fees & Add-Ons

Add-Ons That Actually Make Sense

Add-Ons that actually make sense in the US—gap if underwater, extended warranty at fair price; decide before you go.

January 31, 20261 min read
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Dealer Fees & Add-Ons

Dealer Add-Ons You Should Always Refuse

Dealer add-ons you should always refuse in the US—overpriced protection, VIN etching, fabric protection so you don't overpay.

January 31, 20261 min read
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Dealer Fees & Add-Ons

Dealer Fee Laws by State

Dealer fee laws by state in the US—doc fee caps and disclosure vary; check your state so you know what's allowed.

January 31, 20261 min read
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Dealer Fees & Add-Ons

Dealer Fees Explained Line by Line

Dealer fees explained line by line in the US—doc fee, destination, prep, tax so you see what you're paying.

January 31, 20261 min read
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Dealer Fees & Add-Ons

Dealer Prep Fees: Real or Fake?

Dealer prep fees real or fake in the US—PDI is real cost but sometimes inflated or already in price; negotiate or refuse.

January 31, 20261 min read
dealer prepfeesUS car buying
Dealer Fees & Add-Ons

Destination Fees Explained

Destination fees explained for the US—factory charge to deliver the car to the dealer; often on the Monroney sticker.

January 31, 20261 min read
destination feeexplainedUS car buying
Dealer Fees & Add-Ons

Extended Warranties: Worth It or Not?

Extended warranties worth it or not in the US—depends on car, price, and coverage; decide before you go and negotiate price.

January 31, 20261 min read
extended warrantyworth itUS car buying
Dealer Fees & Add-Ons

Fee Comparison: Dealer vs Online Car Buying

Fee comparison dealer vs online car buying in the US—online may have fewer fees; compare OTD so you see total cost.

January 31, 20261 min read
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Dealer Fees & Add-Ons

Gap Insurance Explained

Gap insurance explained for the US—covers the gap between loan balance and car value if totaled; often cheaper from insurer than dealer.

January 31, 20261 min read
gap insuranceexplainedUS car buying