An out-the-door (OTD) price is the total amount you pay to buy the car including taxes and fees. It's the only number that reflects the true cost of purchase.
The negotiated vehicle price (sale price).
Sales tax, title, registration, and dealer doc fees.
Any add-ons like warranties or protection packages.
Many buyers negotiate the sale price and still overpay due to fees and add-ons.
Negotiating from the OTD number keeps everything honest and comparable.
Always negotiate the out-the-door price first. Payments can be manipulated by loan term and rate.
They're similar, but drive-off can mean what you pay at signing. OTD is the full purchase total.