Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is the Deal Checker?
It's an estimate, not a guarantee. We calculate based on the numbers you enter and standard fee/tax structures, but we're not pulling live inventory data or verifying the dealer's paperwork line by line. Treat the output as a strong gut-check before you negotiate, not a final number.
What does 'out-the-door price' actually mean?
It's the total you'll pay to drive off the lot — vehicle price plus taxes, registration, dealer fees, add-ons, and any warranty costs, minus your trade-in value. It's the number that matters, because the sticker price and the out-the-door price are rarely the same thing.
What counts as a warning flag?
Things like fees that look inflated or duplicated, add-ons priced well above typical cost, or a price-to-MSRP gap that doesn't match what the vehicle's condition and mileage would suggest. A flag doesn't always mean walk away — it means ask questions.
How is this different from the $79 Vehicle Intelligence Report?
The Deal Checker gives you a fast, self-serve estimate using the numbers you provide. The Vehicle Intelligence Report goes further: it pulls real live market comps for your specific vehicle, and a human reviews the deal to build you an actual negotiation strategy — what to say, what to push back on, and what a fair price looks like in your market. Use the free tool to get oriented. Use the paid report when you're ready to negotiate for real.
Do I need to enter my trade-in and financing info?
No, both are optional. Leave trade-in blank if you're not trading anything in, and skip APR/loan term if you're paying cash. The tool will still give you an MSRP comparison and out-the-door estimate either way.
Does the Deal Checker negotiate for me?
No — it's diagnostic, not a negotiator. It tells you where you stand. If you want someone to actually work the deal on your behalf, that's what AutoEase's concierge service and the Vehicle Intelligence Report are for.