Where does a dealership actually make its money on me?

There are four profit centers, and most buyers only know about one. First, the front-end gross — the markup over what the dealer paid, which is now the smallest piece on most new cars. Second, your trade, bought at wholesale and sold at retail. Third, the money factor or rate markup, where the lender approves you at one rate and the dealer sells you a higher one. Fourth, the F&I office — GAP, service contracts, and add-ons priced two to four times wholesale.

A 30-minute consult call walks through all four for your specific deal so nothing gets past you.