COPY-AND-SEND SCRIPT
How to ask a dealer for the out-the-door price
Get the full number in writing before you drive to the lot. That makes it easier to compare dealers and spot charges that appear later.
Text or email this to the dealer
Hi, I'm interested in the [year, make, model] listed at [advertised price]. Please send me the complete out-the-door price in writing, including the selling price, every dealer fee and add-on, sales tax, title, and registration. Please also confirm the vehicle is available. I'm comparing written totals before I visit. Thank you.
Replace the brackets with the exact vehicle and advertised price. If the listing has a stock number, include it so the response cannot quietly switch to another car.
Why ask before discussing the payment?
A monthly payment can change when the dealer adjusts the down payment, APR, loan term, trade allowance, or amount financed. The out-the-door price isolates the purchase itself: negotiated selling price, taxes, required fees, and accepted add-ons before financing.
The Federal Trade Commission recommends asking for the out-the-door price in writing before leaving home. A written total helps buyers compare offers on the same basis and catch extra charges.
What a complete reply should show
- The exact vehicle, VIN or stock number, and selling price.
- Every rebate or conditional discount and what is required to qualify.
- Dealer or documentation fees as separate line items.
- Each add-on or protection product and whether it is optional.
- Sales tax, title, registration, and the complete out-the-door total.
If the dealer only sends a monthly payment
Thanks. Before we discuss financing, please send the complete out-the-door price and an itemized buyer's order. I need the selling price, taxes, government charges, dealer fees, and add-ons shown separately so I can compare the total.
Check the written quote
Enter the selling price, tax rate, fees, trade allowance, payoff, down payment, APR, and term in the DealProof out-the-door calculator. Then compare its breakdown with the buyer's order before signing.
Reviewed September 10, 2026. See the FTC's official guidance on dealer ads and written out-the-door prices and financing or leasing a car. General education only; the written contract controls.