Dealer Fee Checker
Know which fees to negotiate, decline, or accept. See what the dealer actually pays vs. what they charge you.
Dealer cost estimates based on industry wholesale pricing and dealership financial disclosures.
Doc fee caps: State consumer protection statutes (2026). CA, NY, TX, WA, and other states have legally mandated caps.
Markup ratios represent typical ranges. Actual dealer cost may vary by region and vendor contracts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are junk fees at a car dealership?
Junk fees are charges added by the dealer that provide little or no value to the buyer. Common examples include dealer prep (PDI), nitrogen tire fill, VIN etching, fabric protection, and pinstriping. These items cost the dealer $5-$100 but are sold for $150-$800+. You can and should decline most of them.
Can I negotiate the doc fee at a dealership?
It depends on your state. Some states cap doc fees by law (California at $85, New York at $175, Texas at $150). In states with no cap, doc fees can be $300-$800+ and are negotiable. The dealer's actual cost to process paperwork is $50-$100.
What is a dealer rate markup on auto loans?
When you finance through a dealer, they often add 1-3 percentage points to the buy rate from the bank and pocket the difference ('dealer reserve'). On a $30,000 loan over 60 months, a 2% markup costs you roughly $1,700 extra. Always get pre-approved by your bank or credit union first.
Should I buy an extended warranty from the dealer?
Dealer extended warranties (service contracts) are marked up 3-8x. The dealer pays $300-$800 for the policy and sells it for $2,500+. If you want coverage, buy it from a third-party provider like Endurance or CARCHEX for 40-60% less. Never buy in the F&I office under pressure.