In the journey of purchasing a new car, understanding the intricacies of car dealer fees is as critical as choosing the many features available in your dream automobile. On top of the car's sticker price, these fees can form an important chunk of the total cost you ultimately pay. Dealer fees, comprising of sales tax, vehicle registration, and a documentation fee, among others, can vary vastly by state, affecting the overall affordability and feasibility of purchasing a new car.
Car dealerships across the United States, with only a few exceptions, are not legally bound to stick to a specific dealer fee. This results in a wide range of dealer costs nationwide, from as low as $315 in Alaska to an astoundingly high $6,369 in Louisiana.
Key findings from the data include: