Before you drive off the lot, several one-time expenses inflate the initial price tag. : The base negotiated price of the vehicle.

: Paid to the state for license plates and legal ownership documentation.

: State-imposed taxes calculated as a percentage of the purchase price (e.g., 7% on a $20,000 car adds $1,400).

: A larger down payment reduces the total amount borrowed and can often help secure a lower interest rate. 3. Depreciation: The Silent Expense

: These include documentation fees for paperwork, destination fees for delivery, and dealer preparation charges. 2. Financing and Interest

Financing makes a car more expensive over time due to the cost of borrowing.