While most consumers never really bother to read the details of a window sticker, except to get a quick glance of the MSRP or to see the fuel economy ratings. What they don’t realize is that they are missing out on valuable information that could actually help them with their car buying decision. What consumers need to understand is that window sticker's provide very important information that includes the vehicle's manufacturer's suggested retail price, and engine specifications. They also provide a comprehensive list of its standard and optional equipment. These statistics officially identify the car or truck for shoppers on a dealer's showroom floor.

Therefore, if you really want to get more information on the vehicles window stickers, I have broken it down for you here. The window sticker is a wealthy resource of essential information about a new automobile. It lets you know exactly what's included with any particular vehicle, as well as helping to ensure that you're getting the exact options you're paying for. New car dealers generally will sell a vehicle for somewhere between MSRP and its invoice price, which is usually higher than the dealer's actual cost for the automobile.

There are exceptions: high-demand models could actually sell for more than MSRP, while less-popular vehicles could be coaxed away for less than the invoice price. Laws in most states require every new car to have a MSRP sticker on their vehicles and there are firm penalties for their absence to the dealers who don’t have these stickers on the window. That underscores the value of window stickers for the car shopper. Of particular value are several other pieces of vital information included with the manufacturer's suggested retail price there are engine and transmission specifications; standard equipment, including warranty details; optional equipment; and fuel economy information.

The sticker will list and break down a cars standard features and its trim level. Most models come in two or more different trim levels, with higher-priced versions having more standard features such as upgraded engines and/or suspensions, larger wheels and tires, and an enhanced interior. Additionally the window sticker shows aggregated prices of all items in an options package will usually be discounted compared with buying each accessory individually. If this occurs, the applicable discount will be noted on the sticker. Even when an options group includes a factory discount, its transaction price is still negotiable at the dealer level.

The manufacturer's warranty coverage is explained which tells you the number of years or months plus how many miles it’s covered for. Included will be a comprehensive coverage, which applies to parts and labor costs for covered repairs; power train coverage, which applies to such major mechanical components as the engine, transmission, and axles; corrosion coverage, which applies to body panels that have completely rusted through and may indicate that an extended warranty is available if a buyer wants additional coverage. (Extended coverage is usually offered in the finance office or asks your salesman for details). Additionally the window sticker supplies consumers with Fuel ratings and static’s that are calculated by the EPA. You can also find the vehicle identification number on the sticker, which you should always compare to the one on the drivers side windshield to make sure they match. Remember the MSRP is the suggested retail price for the car and every dealer in your region of the country has the same MSRP, it’s up to you to make the deal with your car dealer for what you pay.

A good word of advice, if the dealer has added additional charges to the MSRP, such as chrome wheels or window tint, they also need to have it listed next to the window sticker on a separate piece of paper called an addendum. If the addendum is not there then you do not need to pay for the add-on. Also, try to avoid the impulse of asking a dealer his best price while looking at the window sticker, because their answer will almost always be “the best price is on the window”.