What is the out-the-door price in writing, including the doc fee, taxes, title and any add-ons?

The advertised price is rarely what you pay. An itemized out-the-door quote exposes doc fees and pre-installed add-ons before you negotiate.

What reconditioning was done before listing, and is there a recent inspection or Carfax report?

Dealers inspect and repair trade-ins to different standards. Ask what was replaced, what was left alone and whether the state inspection is current.

A branded title or prior accident lowers what the car is worth and what a lender will finance, regardless of how it looks today.

Many problems only show up cold or at speed: rough idle, vibration, pulling, noise. A short lot drive hides them.

1 / 2

Pre-purchase inspection — have an independent mechanic check it before you sign
Out-the-door price — the total with taxes, title and fees — ask for it in writing
Vehicle history report — what Carfax and AutoCheck show, and what they miss
Loan pre-approval — know your rate before you talk financing at the dealer

Free 7-day concierge — a neutral FMYCAR advisor answers your questions about this car, no charge.

Same model, body style or price range, from dealers on FMYCAR.

2011 Chevrolet Express 1500

Work Van · 41,899 mi

$13,598

Hi Lo Auto Sales · Frederick, MD

2019 Chevrolet Express 2500

Work Van · 187,005 mi

$7,299

Used Cars of Baltimore · Cockeysville, MD

$19,798

Car for sale at Hi Lo Auto Sales, Frederick, MD · 58,147 mi · Gray · RWD

About $357/mo estimate · 72 mo at 8.99% APR, $0 down, before tax and fees. Not an offer of credit.

FMYCAR take

Price position: priced $12,499 above the median of 3 similar Chevrolet van listings on FMYCAR (median $7,299).
Mileage: 58,147 miles — fewer than 2 of 3 similar cars (median 187,005 mi).
Days listed: added today. As a general rule, the longer a car sits, the more room a dealer has to negotiate.

What to ask the dealer about this 2014 Chevrolet Express 1500

What is the out-the-door price in writing, including the doc fee, taxes, title and any add-ons?
What reconditioning was done before listing, and is there a recent inspection or Carfax report?
Is the title clean, and has it had any reported accidents or more than one owner?
Can I take it on an extended test drive, including highway speeds, and start it cold?

FMYCAR is independent and advice-only. No dealer pays us.

Before you sign

Got a worksheet from the dealer? FMYCAR validates every line before you sign.

Free 7-day concierge — a neutral advisor while you shop, no charge.

Hi Lo Auto Sales

Frederick, MD