Association of Motorists of Long Island Publishes Used-Car Pricing Checklist

LONG ISLAND, N.Y. — The Association of Motorists of Long Island has published a five-step checklist for used-car shoppers. The checklist is designed to help buyers compare written offers before visiting a dealership, see how taxes and fees affect the total, and check that the final paperwork reflects the deal they agreed to.

Start with the same question for each dealer: “What is the total price for this specific car if I buy it today?” Ask for the answer in writing. An itemized out-the-door quote gives you a common figure to compare and helps you see which charges account for any difference between offers.

For example, if one car is listed at $18,500 and another at $19,000, the first listing may look cheaper. If its written quote includes a $750 required dealer charge, the second offer may cost less before taxes and registration.

Five steps to compare used-car prices

1. Save the listing. Take a screenshot showing the advertised price, date, mileage, and vehicle identification number (VIN) or stock number. Keep any terms that explain when the price applies. Confirm the car is still available before you travel.
2. Get an itemized out-the-door quote. Ask for the vehicle price, required dealer charges, applicable taxes, and title and registration fees. Request a quote for the specific VIN and ask how long it is valid. If you plan to trade in a car, ask the dealer to show its value and any outstanding loan balance separately.
3. Check which extras are optional. Ask whether you can buy the car without items such as a service contract or protection package. If you decline an extra, ask the dealer to remove it and send an updated quote. Review the Buyers Guide to see what warranty coverage, if any, comes with the car.
4. Compare financing separately. Ask whether the vehicle price changes if you pay cash or bring financing from your own lender. Compare the annual percentage rate, loan term, amount financed, and total of payments. Ask the dealer to show how your down payment reduces the balance you will finance.
5. Match the contract to the quote. Check the VIN, price, fees, add-ons, and financing terms before signing. If a number changes, ask for an explanation and an updated written breakdown. Keep copies of the listing, quote, Buyers Guide, signed contract, and receipts.

Once you have written prices for similar cars, compare mileage, condition, warranty coverage, and financing. Ask for a vehicle history report and arrange an independent inspection when possible. The association’s printable used-car buyer checklist is available.

About the Association of Motorists of Long Island

The Association of Motorists of Long Island provides consumer education for motorists in Nassau and Suffolk counties, including resources on buying a vehicle, comparing prices, and finding official complaint channels.