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• No Hidden Fees: All mandatory dealer-imposed fees must be included in the upfront advertised price.
• Price Matching: Advertised online or promotional prices must exactly match the final price charged at the dealership.
• Transparency: Dealers are prohibited from concealing mandatory fees, add-ons, or financing conditions until the final stages of the purchase. 

• Excluding Mandatory Fees: Advertising a price that does not reflect all required costs.
• Selective Rebates: Using discounts in ads that are not available to all consumers (e.g., military or student-only rebates applied to the base price).
• Hidden Down Payments: Failing to disclose that an additional down payment is required to get the advertised price.
• Financing Conditions: Making a low price contingent on using the dealer's specific financing.
• Undisclosed Add-ons: Requiring consumers to buy extra items (like VIN etching or fabric protection) that weren't in the original ad.
• Phantom Inventory: Advertising vehicles that are unavailable or do not exist.

Source: GoogleNews

A new vehicle registration/renewal rule implemented by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles will result in more uninsured vehicles on the road and place a costly unfunded mandate on county tax offices, according to the state’s Mexican American Legislative Caucus (MALC).

In a statement released March 6, MALC said the DMV board of directors on Feb. 12 unanimously adopted amended rule changes imposing new ID requirements for registration/renewal that require applicants to prove legal status, a policy targeting illegal immigration.

But MALC argues the impact will be much broader, affecting Texans regardless of legal status.

The DMV board attempted to slip the changes through in November, though critics demanded a legislative hearing, which took place in January but didn’t significantly change the board’s view, according to state District 38 Rep. Erin Gamez, who recently spoke with The Brownsville Herald. Gamez is MALC vice chair.

Although portions of the new rule implementation were delayed to March 5 and Jan. 1, 2027, and documentation options expanded by the board to address concerns raised by lawmakers, county officials and industry stakeholders, “significant concerns remain about the rule’s impact on county tax assessor-collectors, small automobile dealers, and immigrant communities,” according to MALC.

Gamez said changes this sweeping should have been debated in the Legislature, not enacted at the department level.

“These are unelected bureaucrats, unelected administrators, essentially passing policy,” she said. “They initially did it without a public hearing. In November they tried to do it that way, and you just woke up one morning and went, boom, here are the new rules.”

MALC vehemently disagrees with the new rules, Gamez said, describing it as “a trend to shift immigration status determination … enforcement onto all type of administrative agencies.”

“What possible equipment, what possible readiness does your tax assessor/collector’s office have to now essentially become a determiner or an arbitrator of immigration status? This is an unfunded mandate on the county offices across the state, and that’s what folks don’t understand,” she said. “This doesn’t just affect the immigrant community. This affects every Texan who intends to renew their registration status.”

Gamez said making it impossible for a large segment of the population to register a vehicle or renew registration doesn’t mean they’ll stop driving to work or the store. It just means they’ll be doing it in an unregistered, probably uninsured vehicle, she said.

“And if they did (stop), that is going to have a terribly detrimental effect on our local economy as well,” Gamez said. “Think about the burden that we’re shifting on the small business owners. … Secondly, if people aren’t going and paying their registration fees, that’s money that your county, that’s multiple millions of dollars that counties across the state of Texas are now losing.”

While county offices will be required to manually verify identification documents without any extra funding or statutory guidance from the Legislature, automobile dealers have expressed concern that obstacles to vehicle registration/renewal will result in “higher loan delinquencies, returns and abandoned vehicles,” MALC said.

Gamez said it seems like another example of local control being eroded at the state level, and said she hopes the issue will be revisited at the legislative level.

“We’re already feeling the push of attempting to … eliminate every form of local control we have from the top down,” she said. “That’s tough for me, when we … pass these sweeping policies without considering the economic detriment to local control and to our local communities. Aside from making your life more burdensome and difficult, it also makes our roads unsafe. I mean, there’s a myriad of problems.”

State District 90 Rep. Ramon Romero Jr., who serves as MALC chairman, issued this statement:

“The DMV’s job is to keep Texas roads safe, not to act as an arm of immigration enforcement. This rule shifts costs to counties, creates new barriers for drivers, and makes it more likely that unregistered and uninsured vehicles will be on our roads.

“That does not make Texas safer. If changes of this magnitude are necessary, they should be debated in the Legislature, not imposed through administrative rule-making. That is not public safety.”

Source: MyRGV.com

Used-car shoppers are marching to electric and hybrid vehicles this month, it appears.

Citing internal data, used-car retailer CarMax said searches for electric vehicles and hybrids on its website from March 2 through Sunday were up 12.8% from Feb. 1 to March 1.

This “statistically significant lift” in shoppers looking for these rides indicates, “rising gas prices may be prompting more consumers to explore fuel efficient options,” CarMax senior vice president of retail Wes Dunn said in comments emailed to Auto Remarketing.

“As gas prices rise, they can serve as a starting point for consideration, but whether shoppers move beyond initial interest depends largely on how confident they feel about what EV ownership looks like in practice,” Dunn said.

“Consumers are weighing practical questions around range, charging access, battery durability, and overall cost of ownership as they assess whether an electrified vehicle fits their needs and lifestyle.”

With growth in charging infrastructure and a clearer picture on range, some of the concern among consumers has mellowed, Dunn says.

However, there still needs to be education and transparency around EVs, especially for those who are new to the segment, he said.

“Affordability also plays an important role, and for many consumers, used EVs can offer a more approachable way to explore electric vehicles without the commitment of buying new,” Dunn said. “Ultimately, the more informed and confident customers feel, the more likely they are to consider whether a used EV is the right option for them.”

According to the latest EV Market Monitor from Cox Automotive, there were 30,879 used EVs sold in February, which beat January figures by 4.2% and prior-year figures by 28.8%. Used EV days’ supply of 42 was down 9.8% month-over-month and down 10.2% year-over-year, the Cox report showed.

Average used EV prices fell 1.9% month-over-month and 8.5% year-over-year, coming in at $34,821. Used EVs were just $1,334 pricier than their internal combustion engine counterparts in February. In fact, Cox said used EV prices were lower than used ICE vehicle prices in 18 of the 26 brands included in its data set.

“February underscored the EV market’s new reality, with new EV sales sharply lower year over year and used EV momentum continuing to build,” said Cox Automotive director of industry insights Stephanie Valdez-Streaty, who authored the report.

“Inventory levels tightened from January and prices were pushed lower across both new and used segments, highlighting a market increasingly driven by affordability and demand alignment.”

Source:  AutoRemarketing

It probably doesn’t take a doctorate in economics to make the connection of affordability challenges to another drop in average credit scores.

Those trends are among the findings included in the spring 2026 edition of the FICO Score Credit Insights report, which showed the average U.S. FICO score declined to 714, continuing a gradual downward trajectory since 2023.

But perhaps illustrating the slice of consumers who are doing well in this environment showing up in certain trends, FICO also said a record 48.1% of consumers now have FICO scores of 750 or higher.

FICO explained the findings point to an increasingly segmented credit market consistent with a K-shaped economy, with a growing share of consumers maintaining strong credit profiles while challenges persist for lower-scoring borrowers, particularly amid elevated inflation and higher interest rates.

“The resumption of required student loan payments and a continued, modest rise in mortgage delinquencies nudged the average score slightly lower,” said Ethan Dornhelm, head of scores analytics at FICO.

“What makes this particularly interesting is that we’re simultaneously seeing a record share of consumers demonstrating strong, consistent credit behaviors,” Dornhelm continued in a news release. “The result is a credit market that’s both more challenging for some and more rewarding for others — a dynamic that requires more nuanced strategies from lenders.”

Other key findings from the spring 2026 report that’s available online included:

—Average FICO score slips to 714: The national average FICO score continued a downward trend, falling 2 points in the last year, driven primarily by resumed student loan delinquency reporting and a modest increase in mortgage delinquencies.

—Delinquencies stabilize across most products: Auto, credit card, and personal loan delinquency rates leveled off or improved, while mortgage delinquencies continued to rise to pre-pandemic levels.

—Student loan delinquency growth slows: After a sharp increase earlier in 2025 coinciding with the resumption of student loan delinquency reporting, student loan severe delinquency rates rose only marginally between April and October.

—Score distribution reflects a K-shaped economy: As mentioned, 48.1% of U.S. consumers now have FICO scores of 750 or higher, up from 43.3% in 2019. The share of consumers in the middle score ranges continued to decline as both high-score and lower score segments expanded, reflecting divergent credit outcomes.

—Gen Z leads credit card openings: More than 25% of Gen Z consumers with a valid FICO score opened at least one credit card in the past year, the highest rate of any age group.

Along with those findings, FICO shared new consumer research conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of the company.

The research determined Americans are highly focused on improving their financial health, with 83% saying maintaining or improving their credit scores is a priority for them this year.

However, FICO pointed out that affordability challenges exist, with nearly one in four — 24% to be exact — reporting they made less than their minimum payment or skipped a credit card or loan payment in the past 12 months due to inflation.

Despite these financial challenges some are experiencing, the research found that consumers are thinking strategically about credit decisions, with more than three-quarters (77%) factoring interest rates into the timing of credit applications and 29% saying they won’t apply unless rates drop to a certain point.

Yet while consumers demonstrate sophistication in timing applications around rates, FICO discovered fundamental knowledge gaps remain about the credit behaviors that actually qualify them for those better terms.

The research showed 67% of participants either incorrectly believe income directly affects credit scores or acknowledge they are unsure whether it does. Experts explained that’s a misconception that could prevent consumers from recognizing that credit improvement is achievable through behavioral changes rather than higher paychecks.

FICO added this knowledge gap underscores continued demand for transparency and education, particularly as 77% report that being able to continuously monitor their credit scores provides them peace of mind.

“The findings point to a shift in how consumers relate to credit. It’s no longer passive, it’s intentional,” said Jenelle Dito, vice president of consumer empowerment programs and partnerships at FICO.

“People are monitoring their credit and thinking strategically, but many still lack clarity on the fundamentals. Closing that knowledge gap is critical because consumers aren’t just seeking better financial outcomes. They’re seeking peace of mind, making this as much about emotional well-being as credit health,” Dito went on to say.

Source:  Subprime

Source: FI-Magazine

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1. The first 1 and I feel the most important, is people. Their overall people management makes them better – hiring, training, pay plans and their overall employment environment. They hire slow and fire fast. They hire whom they want and need. They continually train their entire staff. Their pay plans promote a team mentality. They provide a professional but fun work environment. “They” do people very well.
2. Next are 2 processes and procedures. They have documented processes and procedures for most, if not all, aspects of their organization. Documented is the keyword here. They make sure the processes and procedures are implemented and adhered to consistently. They do this by continually training and updating when necessary. “They” do processes and procedures well.
3. Education 3 is the next thing that sets them apart. They are always looking for ways to educate themselves. They belong to local, state and national dealer associations. They subscribe to as many trade publications as they can. They attend industry conventions and conferences. They seek advice from industry consultants and are members of 20 Groups. “They” educate themselves well.
4. Technology 4 is something else that they take advantage of. They not only have a DMS that can handle their needs, but they also know how to use all it has to offer. They have a CRM that they understand how to use and make sure that the data contained is as accurate as possible. They not only have a well-functioning website, but also track and make changes when necessary. And they take full advantage of the internet for collections, inventory acquisition and preemployment testing. They are taking full advantage of AI in all facets of their businesses. “They” are technologically savvy
5. Lastly, 5 they plan. They know what their cash flow needs are. They budget for expenses. They project revenues. They do this not only every month and annually. They do this based on what they can do, not what they necessarily want to do. They are constantly reviewing their plans to make necessary changes as needed. “They” plan effectively.

This is what “they” do. From what I’ve experienced, these are the keys to sustained success regardless of the current political or socioeconomic conditions. I can assure you that they didn’t always do these things. They all realized at some point what it would take to be one of them. Most dealers I know do at least one of these. Some even two or three, but only a few do all of them. And do them well. How close are you to being one of “Them?”

Source: NADA

• Targeting "Junk Fees" and Add-ons: AGs are clamping down on unauthorized or hidden fees, such as un-itemized vehicle preparation charges and pre-packaged add-on warranties.
• Used Vehicle Title Issues: Local DAs are prosecuting dealers for failing to transfer ownership titles within legal timeframes (e.g., California’s 30-day requirement), a common issue in used car sales.
• Deceptive Advertising: Actions often focus on bait-and-switch tactics, failing to honor advertised prices, and omitting prior accident damage.
• Loan/Financing Abuses: Investigations target misleading credit practices, such as false advertising regarding financing terms and the illegal sale of "gap" insurance.

• California AutoNation ($650k Settlement - Feb 2025): Multiple California District Attorneys (including LA, Riverside, and Santa Clara) forced AutoNation subsidiaries to pay $650,000 for failing to timely transfer used vehicle titles to consumers.
• Illinois Auto Dealer ($20M Settlement - Dec 2024): The Illinois AG and FTC reached a massive settlement with a major dealership group over bait-and-switch financing and unwanted, high-profit product add-ons.
• Ohio Used Car Dealers (2025): The Ohio AG sued several dealerships for failing to file certificates of title and improper titling practices.
• Minnesota Used Car Suit (2024): The AG sued a dealership for violating newly strengthened state warranty laws, the first action under updated regulations.

• California CARS Act (Effective Oct 2026): This new law aims to significantly increase transparency by requiring itemized pricing and tightening rules on add-ons and advertising.
• Arbitration Law Changes (2026): New California legislation limits the use of forced arbitration for consumers, allowing more cases to be heard in public court.

The U.S. is giving tax relief to some new car buyers in 2026.

If you are considering buying a new vehicle in 2026, the White House just gave you some great news.

On Wednesday, January 7, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that the government is working on a significant tax break that would offer some much-needed relief to car buyers who are struggling to afford a new vehicle.

U.S. 2025 new-vehicle sales forecast

• GM: 2.83 million vehicles (+5.1% year over year); 17.3% market share
• Toyota: 2.52 million vehicles (+8.4% YoY); 15.5% market share
• Ford: 2.18 million vehicles (+5.6% YoY); 13.4% market share
• Hyundai: 1.84 million vehicles (+7.9% YoY); 11.3% market share
• Honda: 1.42 million vehicles (+0.6% YoY); 8.8% market share

The Treasury announced it is implementing a No Tax on American Car Loan Interest rule that offers eligible taxpayers a $10,000 deduction per year in auto loan interest for cars purchased during Trump’s second term.

“For millions of Americans, a car isn’t a luxury, it’s how you get to work, school, and childcare,” Bessent said on X.

“This deduction helps lower monthly costs and makes car ownership more affordable when families need it most. The tax cut also supports American workers by applying solely to U.S.-assembled vehicles, strengthening domestic manufacturing,” he said.

Bessent explained that the Treasury and the IRS are issuing clear rules on the tax break “so taxpayers know exactly how the deduction works.”

But only certain cars will be eligible for the tax break. Here are the criteria for taking advantage of the new rules.

These vehicles are eligible for a new $10,000 automotive tax credit

In his X announcement, Secretary Bessent stated that U.S.-assembled vehicles purchased between 2025 and 2028 will be eligible for the tax credit; however, the program is somewhat more restrictive than the announcement suggests.

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed into law on July 4, 2025, lays out the requirements for new car buyers to receive the relief. Individual car buyers making more than $100,000 and couples making more than $200,000 would see the benefits begin to phase out.

The tax credit will only go to buyers who purchase cars assembled in the U.S. So even if you’re buying a Toyota, as long as it’s one of the nearly 2 million vehicles the company builds in the States annually, you’re eligible. 

But popular imported models, even if they’re imported by one of the U.S. Big 3 automakers, are not covered.

New cars, SUVs, vans, pickup trucks, and motorcycles weighing under 14,000 pounds are eligible, but to qualify, the vehicle must be purchased for personal use, not business or commercial purposes, and its final assembly must be done in the U.S.

Final assembly refers to a process by which the major components of a vehicle — engine, transmission, body, and chassis — are fully integrated, and the vehicle is completed at a U.S.-based manufacturing plant, according to automotive expert Lauren Fix, previously told FOX Business, according to IndexBox.

Japanese automakers, in particular, have large manufacturing footprints in the U.S.

New car buyers looking to buy Japanese autos and receive tax credit will have a large supply to choose from

It’s no secret that the U.S. auto industry has become dominated by foreign brands over the past few decades.

While General Motors still has the highest market share at 17% and Ford ranks third with a 13% market share, foreign models from Asia round out the top five, according to Cox Automotive data.

Toyota ranks second with a 15% U.S. market share, while the Korean brand Hyundai ranks fourth with an 11% share. Toyota’s fellow Japanese brand, Honda, ranks fifth in the market, with a 9% share.

Despite its home-court advantage, Stellantis ranks sixth, with an 8% share. 

Japanese auto manufacturers produced 3.28 million vehicles in the U.S.

Toyota sold over 2.3 million vehicles in the U.S. in 2024, a 3.7% year-over-year increase. Between April 2024 and March 2025, the company built 1.96 million units in the U.S.

Honda, Subaru, Nissan, Mazda, and Toyota combined employed nearly 75,000 manufacturing employees in the U.S. last year, so there is a good chance your favorite Japanese vehicle could be covered. 

Source: TheStreet