How should dealers disclose fees to potential buyers?

The correct approach for dealers to disclose fees to potential buyers is through itemization of all dealer fees and DMV fees in the purchase contract. This practice ensures transparency and allows buyers to clearly understand the total cost of the vehicle, which includes not only the price of the car but also any additional expenses associated with the purchase. By itemizing the fees, dealers foster trust and provide buyers with necessary information to make informed decisions. Full disclosure of all fees helps prevent misunderstandings and disputes that could arise from hidden or unexpected charges.

Other methods of fee disclosure, such as providing a lump sum figure, relying solely on verbal communication, or only disclosing fees upon request, do not offer the same level of clarity and transparency. A lump sum figure can obscure individual costs, while verbal communication can lead to misinterpretations, and only disclosing fees when asked may not give buyers the complete picture they need.