What Is the FTC CARS Rule?

April 24th, 2026 by
Buying a vehicle should be exciting, not stressful. But for years, many car shoppers across the country have faced frustrating dealership experiences, including hidden fees, misleading pricing, and surprise add-ons they never wanted.
This is why the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) created the Combating Auto Retail Scams (CARS) Rule. It is meant to protect consumers from deceptive practices when buying a vehicle.
At Bismarck Motor Company, we welcomed this news because it supports what we have believed from the start: car buying should be simple, transparent, and honest.
In fact, our promise has always been One Low Price. Plain & Simple. Always.
And that means exactly what it sounds like: no hidden fees, no surprises, and upfront pricing on the lot and online.

What Is the FTC CARS Rule?

The FTC CARS Rule was created to crack down on deceptive dealership practices like:
  • Advertising one price online, then increasing it once customers arrive.
  • Adding on hidden fees at signing.
  • Misleading financing offers.
  • Charging for products or services that customers didn’t request.
  • Using bait-and-switch advertising tactics.
  • Failing to clearly explain optional add-ons.

Clearly Advertised Pricing

Under the CARS Rule, dealers must clearly display the actual price customers can pay for a vehicle.
At Bismarck Motor Company, upfront pricing has always been part of our process. Whether you’re shopping online or on our lot, you’ll see one low price on every vehicle.

No Hidden Fees

The FTC now prohibits junk fees buried in contracts.
At Bismarck Motor Company, we have never believed in surprise fees or last-minute charges.
What you see is what you pay.
No hidden fees.
No surprise add-ons.
No unwanted extras.

Optional Add-Ons Should Stay Optional

The CARS Rule also requires dealerships to be transparent about optional products and services. This means customers should never feel pressured to buy extras that they do not want. At Bismarck Motor Company, we believe in helping customers make informed decisions, not causing confusion.

Transparent Financing Matters

The rule also requires dealers to clearly explain financing terms and total payments. Our team works hard to make financing simple and easy to understand, so customers can feel confident in their decisions.

Why This Matters for Car Buyers in Bismarck, ND

Buying a vehicle is one of the biggest purchases most people make. You deserve a dealership that respects your time, your budget, and your trust as a customer.
At Bismarck Motor Company, that means offering:
  • Upfront pricing
  • Transparent financing
  • No hidden fees
  • No-pressure shopping
  • Honest communication
  • A better overall buying experience

Shop With Confidence at Bismarck Motor Company

Whether you’re shopping for a new vehicle, a used vehicle, or exploring financing options, you can expect transparency every step of the way.
Browse our inventory online or visit us in person to experience a better car-buying process.
Posted in Helpful Articles