"Car dealers speak fluent 'confusion'—our job is to translate it into plain English." -Chase Jordan

Decoding the Fine Print: What Every Car Buyer Should Know About Contracts and Add-Ons

📄 Don’t Sign Until You Understand Everything

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of buying a new car.

But that paperwork you’re about to sign?

It’s legally binding—and full of traps that can cost you thousands.

At Deal Guard, we’ve seen it all. And we’re here to break it down so you sign smart and confident.

📑 What’s In That Stack of Paperwork?

Here are the big forms you’ll typically see:

• Buyer’s Order (or Purchase Agreement): Lists the price, fees, taxes, trade-in value, and down payment.

• Retail Installment Sales Contract: The loan agreement. This includes your interest rate, loan term, and total amount to be repaid.

• Optional Add-On Forms: Warranties, tire & wheel protection, GAP, paint sealant, etc.

• Credit Application Authorization: Allows them to run your credit and submit to lenders.

• Disclosure Forms: Some states require documents explaining key financing terms or risks.

💡 Fine Print Red Flags

Keep an eye out for these common tricks:

1. Pre-checked boxes for products you didn’t ask for

If you see items like theft protection, nitrogen in tires, or VIN etching already checked, uncheck them or cross them out.

2. Fees labeled as “Dealer Prep,” “Market Adjustment,” or “Protection Packages”

These are usually high markup fluff. Ask to remove or reduce.

3. “Not subject to financing approval” clauses

If you don’t have a solid loan, this lets them change the deal later. Walk away.

4. No itemized pricing on add-ons

If they bundle products in one lump sum, demand a breakdown so you can compare value.

5. Extended warranties or GAP listed as ‘required’

They're never required to buy or finance a vehicle. If someone says otherwise, that's a lie.

🧠 Tips to Protect Yourself

✅ Take your time – Never feel rushed. Take the contract home if they allow it.

✅ Ask for itemized pricing – Especially for extras. You might get a $2,500 warranty for $1,000 elsewhere.

✅ Don’t sign anything blank – Ever.

✅ Don’t rely on verbal promises – If it’s not written, it doesn’t exist.

✅ Bring a second set of eyes – Whether it’s a friend or your car buying concierge (hi, that’s us!), it helps.

🛡️ How Deal Guard Has Your Back

Deal Guard—the most trusted car buying concierge in North America—reviews every detail before you sign:

• We break down every line of your paperwork

• Ensure pricing matches the agreed deal

• Flag hidden add-ons and sneaky clauses

• Explain your cancellation rights clearly

👉 Let Deal Guard double-check your deal

👋 From Chase:

At Deal Guard, we translate confusing contracts into plain English—so you know exactly what you’re signing.

We’re your second set of eyes, your safety net, and your advocate.

Let’s make sure your new car comes with peace of mind—not regret.

🚘 Head over to GETDEALGUARD.COM or cruise by FUNNEWCAR.COM to see how we help car buyers like you win.

Catch you soon,
Chase Jordan