INSIGHTS

The cost of buying a vehicle in the U.S. remains high in 2026. The average price for a new car has climbed to about $49,220, close to record levels. Used car prices also continue to stay well above what they were before the pandemic. For many buyers, this means the sticker shock is real. Yet, the bigger challenge lies in the financing terms. Interest rates on new-car loans have jumped to an average of 6.9% APR. This increase means that the total cost of owning a vehicle goes

Walking into a car dealership armed with only a Kelley Blue Book (KBB) estimate feels like stepping into a game where the dealer holds all the cards. The automotive industry thrives on information gaps. Dealers know the invoice price, holdbacks, regional incentives, and how long a car has been sitting on the lot. Buyers often rely on sticker prices and rough estimates, hoping for a fair deal. Understanding these hidden details can change the way you negotiate and help you avo

Buying a car often involves more than just choosing the right model and negotiating the price. One hidden cost that many buyers overlook is the finance reserve markup. This markup can add hundreds or even thousands of dollars to the total cost of your loan without you realizing it. Understanding how this markup works and learning how to protect yourself can save you a significant amount of money. Finance manager explaining loan terms to a customer What Is Finance Reserve Mark