DEALERSHIPS ARE TRAINED TO TAKE YOUR MONEY.
OUTSMART THEM.
The average buyer overpays by thousands on hidden fees and psychological tricks. Learn their playbook, flip the script, and walk out with a fair deal.
What's your situation?
Buying New
Never pay above MSRP. Learn to reject dealer markups and factory order at sticker price.
Buying Used
Know exactly what you're buying. Uncover hidden accidents and use inspection findings as leverage.
Leasing
Decode the money factor and negotiate the cap cost like you're buying. Don't pay for hidden fees.
Private Party
Get the best price with no dealer games. Protect yourself from scams and title fraud.
Bad Credit / Neg Equity
Avoid predatory lenders targeting you. Get fair rates even with imperfect credit.
Not Sure Yet?
Compare buying vs. leasing side-by-side. Find the smartest path for your situation.
Known Tactics
The most common ways they separate you from your money.
Do The Math Before They Do
Dealers count on you not verifying their numbers. Our toolkit does the math so you know exactly what you should be paying.
Deal Grader
Grade any quote A-F instantly
OTD Calculator
True out-the-door price
Loan Term Compare
Why 84 months costs more
Trade vs Sell
Tax credit math explained
Negative Equity
Are you underwater?
Lease vs Buy
Compare total costs
DATA IS YOUR
BIGGEST WEAPON.
Never walk onto a lot without knowing the car's past. Dealers hide accidents. Reports reveal them.
Why VinSmart? It's cheaper than Carfax and uses the same official federal title data.