Verified Customer Delivery Stories and Real-Time Dealer Pricing Transparency in California
For decades, the California car-buying experience was often defined by the “teaser price”—a low number featured on a windshield that inevitably ballooned once the customer reached the finance office. However, as of October 1, 2026, the Golden State has officially entered a new era of automotive retail.
With the implementation of the California Combating Auto Retail Scams (CARS) Act (SB 766), the landscape has shifted from “buyer beware” to “dealer disclose.” This 1,000-word feature explores how real-time transparency and verified customer data are reshaping the way Californians buy cars.
1. The 2026 Shift: California’s New Era of Transparency
The catalyst for this change is the CARS Act, which codifies “best-in-class” protections for consumers. The hallmark of the law is the Mandatory Total Price Disclosure. In 2026, California dealers are legally prohibited from advertising a price that does not include all mandatory dealer-installed accessories and add-ons.
Under …
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