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03 / Sample written offer

See what a useful dealer offer looks like.

A written out-the-door total is the anchor. Vehicle identity, itemization, conditions, and missing lines explain what that number actually contains.

The rear quarter of a car glowing outside a dealership at night.

03 / Read the receipt

The total comes first. The details keep it honest.

Use the same reading order for every written offer: identify the vehicle, find the total, then check the lines and conditions attached to it.

Written offer2026 compact SUV · XLE AWD
Offer A
Vehicle referenceVIN ending 4821
Offer timingValid through Aug. 14
Vehicle selling price
$37,400
Dealer / document fee
$399
Dealer add-ons
None stated
Delivery
Not itemized
Tax, title & registration
$4,021
Written out-the-door total$41,820
Dealer condition

No trade, down payment, financing credit, or conditional rebate included.

  1. 01
    The exact vehicle

    A VIN or stock number prevents one vehicle's price from being mistaken for another.

  2. 02
    The written total

    The out-the-door amount leads the comparison instead of a monthly payment or conditional headline.

  3. 03
    The supplied price lines

    Fees, add-ons, delivery, tax, and registration stay visible. A missing line is named rather than silently shown as zero.

  4. 04
    The conditions

    Timing, rebates, financing, deposits, and other dealer-stated requirements stay attached to the price.

Next step

Start with your car. End with numbers you can compare.

Start your car search with the vehicle you want and a price limit.

Check your fit  →
A car at a dealership after dark, ready for the next road.