How to Read a Window Sticker on a New Vehicle

Every new vehicle sold in the United States is required by the Automobile Information Disclosure Act to display a Monroney sticker on the window. This label is a standardized document that contains the information you need to understand exactly what you are buying and what you are paying for. Learning to read it takes about five minutes and can save you from paying for options you never requested.

The Base Price Section

The top section of the Monroney sticker shows the base MSRP for the vehicle in its standard configuration. This is the price before any factory-installed options are added. It tells you the floor price for this model and trim level before customization.

Factory-Installed Options

Below the base price, the sticker lists every factory option added to this specific vehicle, along with the individual price for each option. This is where you can identify exactly what you are paying for beyond the base configuration. A technology package, a moonroof, or upgraded audio system will each be listed with its own line item price.

The Dealer Addendum

Many dealers attach a second sticker alongside the Monroney that lists dealer-installed accessories and sometimes an additional market adjustment markup. Items like nitrogen-filled tires, paint protection film, or window tinting will appear here at prices that are almost always negotiable. Market adjustment markups on high-demand vehicles are also listed here and are sometimes negotiable depending on market conditions.

Fuel Economy and Safety Ratings

The lower portion of the Monroney sticker contains EPA fuel economy estimates and NHTSA or IIHS safety ratings if available. Use the fuel economy figures to calculate your estimated annual fuel cost, but apply a 10 to 15 percent real-world reduction to the EPA estimates for a more accurate projection of what you will actually spend on fuel.