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.

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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.

$17,999

Car for sale at Pat Clemons Inc., Boone, IA · 67,584 mi · Black · FWD

About $324/mo estimate · 72 mo at 8.99% APR, $0 down, before tax and fees. Not an offer of credit.

FMYCAR take

Price position: priced $1,990 below the median of 6 similar Chevrolet Malibu listings on FMYCAR (median $19,989).
Mileage: 67,584 miles — fewer than 3 of 6 similar cars (median 60,941 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 2024 Chevrolet Malibu

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.

Pat Clemons Inc.

1720 South Marshall Street, Boone, IA