| A | B |
|---|
| lemon | a car with substantial defects that the manufacturer has been unable to fix after repeated attempts |
| pre-approval | the process of qualifying for a loan before you begin looking for a car |
| Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) | a number unique to a car that serves to identify it |
| dealer add-ons | high-priced, high-profit dealer services that add little of value to your car purchase |
| vehicle emission test | a test to verify that a vehicle meets the minimum clean-air standards |
| polishing compound | a substance that can smooth out surface scratches, scuffs, and stains |
| abrasives | course materials that scour or rub away a surface |
| upholstery | seat-covering material |
| sticker price | the price shown on the tag in a new car's window |
| oxidize | to permanently lose color and shine because of chemical reaction with the air |
| first step in car buying | determine needs and wants |
| manufacturer | company that builds the car |
| make of car | type of car |
| average % of original value after 5 years | 22-25% |
| buying a car | 2nd most expensive purchase in life |
| invoice price | price dealer pays |
| base price | price before cost of options |
| reasonable offer | 2% to 8% above dealer's cost |
| depreciation | decline in the value of a vehicle during its lifetime |
| hybrid | type of vehicle that uses alternate energy sources |
| Buyer's Guide | sticker on all used cars--as is or warranty |
| warranty | a written guarantee of the soundness of a product |
