Buying a car can feel stressful and confusing. Many people leave the dealership unsure if they got a fair deal because of unclear prices, sales pressure, or worries about overpaying.
TrueCar aims to simplify the process by displaying upfront pricing, reducing haggling, and streamlining the buying experience. For shoppers who want to avoid pushy negotiations or surprise fees, it can be a useful tool.
Some buyers find TrueCar helpful for understanding what a fair price is. Others get frustrated by unclear final costs or differences between the online listing and what the dealer actually offers. Knowing these pros and cons helps set realistic expectations.
What You’ll Learn in This Review
In this article, we will answer the following questions:
Is TrueCar really saving you money, or just showing dealer-approved pricing?
What do real users say about their experience with TrueCar?
What’s the full TrueCar buying process, and what should you be ready for?
Overview
What Is TrueCar?
TrueCar is a digital marketplace that helps people buy cars. Instead of selling cars directly, it connects buyers with certified dealerships across the country. TrueCar does not own cars or set prices. Its main goal is to make car buying easier by offering clear, upfront pricing called "TruePrice."
Here’s what makes TrueCar different:
The "TruePrice" Concept: TruePrice is a market-based price estimate. It reflects what others have actually paid for the same car (same make, model, trim, and options) in your local area. It is sourced from TrueCar's network of certified dealerships and updated weekly. This aims to provide a fair market value benchmark.
Evolution (TrueCar+): TrueCar has evolved its TrueCar+ program. It allows some consumers to complete purchases online. This includes financing and trade-ins with participating dealers in certain states.
Dealer-Supported Model: TrueCar's revenue primarily comes from fees paid by certified dealers for successful sales generated through the platform.
Information vs. Transaction: TrueCar provides market data, price trends, and vehicle comparisons to empower buyers. While TrueCar+ enhances online transactions, the core experience still connects buyers with dealers for in-person sales.
How Does TrueCar Work? (The TrueCar Process)
The TrueCar process simplifies initial car shopping by providing upfront pricing. But it also plays a crucial role in the purchase. The car-buying process involves several key stages:
1. Search and Select
Enter your ZIP code and preferred make/model on the TrueCar site or app. You'll see local dealer listings along with a “TruePrice.”
2. See the TruePrice
TruePrice is based on recent local transactions and shows what others paid. It’s set by the dealer and excludes taxes, fees, and dealer-installed options, which are added later.
3. Provide Your Info
To access dealer contact information or request a quote, you can submit your name, phone number, and email address. Expect a follow-up from the dealership.
4. Connect with the Dealer
All final negotiations and the purchase happen directly at the dealership. TrueCar does not guarantee the final price and advises confirming all fees before closing the deal.
How Transparent Are TrueCar Prices?
At first glance, the TrueCar price, labeled “TruePrice,” appears to be an all-inclusive deal. But it’s crucial to understand what this price excludes.
Here’s what’s often left out of TruePrice:
Taxes: State and local sales taxes (or use taxes) are almost always excluded from the TruePrice and vary significantly by location.
Government Fees: Costs for vehicle title transfer, license plates, and registration. These are typically not included and depend on your state's regulations.
Dealer Documentation Fees ("Doc Fees"): These administrative fees cover the dealership's paperwork processing. They are often added separately and can range from $100 to over $500, depending on state caps or dealer practices.
Optional Extras: Prices for extended warranties, protection plans (e.g., paint protection, VIN etching), or dealer-installed accessories (e.g., floor mats, tinting) are not part of the TruePrice.
Dealer-Locate Fees: If the dealer needs to bring a specific car from another lot, a fee for this transfer may apply. This is also not included in the TruePrice.
Local Pricing and Market Nuances
Even with TrueCar’s local focus, the same car can cost more or less depending on dealer markups, regional fees, or inventory shortages. TrueCar doesn’t highlight these differences in its listed price. TruePrice is a good starting point, but always ask the dealer for an itemized “out-the-door” quote that shows every fee before you agree to buy.
TrueCar Reviews: What Real Users Say
Here’s what we discovered from verified sources about how real people feel about TrueCar.
Positive Review:
“I've used True Car three times. Using the program made the process of finding a new or used car easy. You have the freedom to find the car you want and can afford. There's no sales person hassling you or changing your mind out of the car you want. The program made it easy. I just helped my sister get a 2022 Chevrolet Malibu with is program and she is very satisfied and happy. TrueCar is the way to go when looking for a car.”
— Clementine Bradley (Trustpilot, December 16, 2023)
Negative Review:
“I don't think it is working though the intention seems good. The listings are just to make people contact the dealers but at end of the day, people don't get for the price listed or end up buying something else. Dealers most of the time do not respect what was provided by Truecar to its clients.”
— Thangaraj (ConsumerAffairs, September 5, 2021)
Is TrueCar Legit or Just Clever Marketing?
TrueCar is a legitimate online car buying platform that connects consumers with certified dealerships. However, the actual experience can vary significantly depending on the individual dealer.
Pros:
Upfront Pricing: TrueCar provides insights into what others have paid for similar vehicles, offering a baseline for fair pricing.
Easy Browse: The platform is user-friendly for comparing vehicles and prices.
Broad Dealership Access: It connects buyers to a large network of certified dealers.
A+ BBB Rating: TrueCar maintains a strong reputation with the Better Business Bureau.
Upfront Pricing: TrueCar provides insights into what others have paid for similar vehicles, offering a baseline for fair pricing.
Easy Browse: The platform is user-friendly for comparing vehicles and prices.
Broad Dealership Access: It connects buyers to a large network of certified dealers.
A+ BBB Rating: TrueCar maintains a strong reputation with the Better Business Bureau.
Cons:
Dealer Controls Pricing: While TrueCar provides data, the final price is set by the dealer, and discrepancies can occur.
Price Changes: The initial quote may not include all fees (like documentation, taxes, and destination charges), and the final price can change at the dealership.
Lead Generation Focus: Some users report that TrueCar primarily functions as a lead-generating service for dealers, leading to numerous calls and emails.
No Guaranteed Price: TrueCar does not guarantee the exact price from the dealer; it's a guide to help you find a fair deal.
Dealer Controls Pricing: While TrueCar provides data, the final price is set by the dealer, and discrepancies can occur.
Price Changes: The initial quote may not include all fees (like documentation, taxes, and destination charges), and the final price can change at the dealership.
Lead Generation Focus: Some users report that TrueCar primarily functions as a lead-generating service for dealers, leading to numerous calls and emails.
No Guaranteed Price: TrueCar does not guarantee the exact price from the dealer; it's a guide to help you find a fair deal.
Best for:
Local buyers who want to compare prices without extensive haggling.
Shoppers who are willing to double-check pricing and fees in person.
Local buyers who want to compare prices without extensive haggling.
Shoppers who are willing to double-check pricing and fees in person.
Not ideal for:
Long-distance buyers.
Those expecting a final, guaranteed price without any further negotiation or verification.
Shoppers seeking a fully online process with no dealer interaction.
Long-distance buyers.
Those expecting a final, guaranteed price without any further negotiation or verification.
Shoppers seeking a fully online process with no dealer interaction.
Final Tips for Buyers Using TrueCar
Before you buy, keep these points in mind:
Compare Broadly: Don't rely solely on TrueCar. Cross-reference prices with other reputable car listing sites to ensure you're getting the best possible deal. Explore our guide on the Top 20 Best Used Car Websites for 2025 for more information.
Call Before You Go: Call the dealership to confirm the car is on the lot, double-check the TrueCar price, and ask about extra fees. Remember, TrueCar’s prices often exclude dealer fees, and the exact model or price you saw online may not be honored.
Get Everything in Writing: Ask for a detailed written quote showing all costs so you can spot hidden add-ons and avoid surprises.
Use TrueCar as a Research Tool: Use TrueCar to see typical local prices and prepare for negotiations, but don’t treat it as a guaranteed final price.
Final Thoughts: Make TrueCar Work for You
TrueCar can be a useful tool if you know what to expect. It offers a simple way to compare local prices, saving you time during your search. But it’s not a guaranteed deal, and prices can shift depending on the dealership. Use it to spot trends, not to lock in a final number. Always call ahead, confirm fees, and compare with other platforms such as CarMax Austin or CarMax Edison.
Ready to Buy with Confidence?
TrueCar can help you understand local pricing and compare dealer offers, but once you’ve found the right car, AmeriFreight Auto Transport is here to make sure it gets to your driveway safely and stress-free.
Whether you’re buying from a dealership across town or across the country, AmeriFreight connects you with a trusted network of licensed carriers. We coordinate pickup and delivery with the seller and provide expert support every step of the way.
Don’t let logistics slow you down. Get your free quote today and ship your next vehicle with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How accurate are TrueCar pricing estimates?
TrueCar pricing estimates provide a general idea of what others have paid for similar vehicles in your area by aggregating data from various sources. They are not guaranteed final prices and may not include all fees, taxes, or dealer-installed accessories.
Does TrueCar guarantee the best car price?
TrueCar aims to provide transparent, no-haggle pricing based on what others have paid for similar vehicles. But it does not guarantee the absolute lowest price. The final cost may still be affected by additional fees or inventory availability at the dealership.
How does TrueCar compare to CarMax Austin and CarMax Edison?
TrueCar acts as a pricing research tool that connects you to various dealerships, while CarMax (including its Austin and Edison locations) is a direct retailer offering a no-haggle, fixed-price car-buying experience with its own inventory.
Can I negotiate TrueCar’s prices?
TrueCar aims to provide no-haggle pricing, but you can still negotiate on factors such as dealer fees, additional accessories, and even trade-in value.
Does TrueCar deliver cars?
No, TrueCar does not deliver cars. It is a service that connects you with certified dealers who handle the sales and delivery process.
