What Information You'll See on the Window Sticker
A window sticker is like a quick summary of what a car offered when it was brand new. It shows the detailed information such as the price, features, and performance specs.
If you're buying a used car, checking the window sticker helps you see what's original and what might have been changed over time.
MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price)
This is the original price the manufacturer set for the car when it first came out. It's a good way to know how much the vehicle was worth before any discounts or deals.
Interior and Exterior Colors
The sticker lists the car's original color combination, both inside and out. It helps you check if the car has been repainted or if the interior has been changed.
Mechanical Features
Here you'll find details about the engine, transmission, and drivetrain. These specs tell you how the car performs and what kind of driving experience it was designed for.
Interior Features
This part focuses on comfort and convenience. You might see things like leather seats, heated or ventilated seats, and a touchscreen infotainment system. It's a nice way to see what the car originally offered.
Options and Packages
Many cars come with extra packages or special add-ons. The window sticker lists all of them, so you can tell if any features are missing or replaced since the car was first sold.
Engine and Transmission
This section highlights what's under the hood. Whether it's a turbocharged engine or a smooth automatic gearbox, this gives you an idea of the car's power and performance.
NHTSA Safety Rating
Safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show how well the car performed in crash tests. It's a quick way to check how safe the car is.
Fuel Economy
Here you'll see the car's fuel efficiency numbers, usually in miles per gallon (MPG). It's helpful if you want to know how much you'll spend on fuel or how eco-friendly the car is.
Manufacturer Warranty
This section shows what kind of warranty came with the car when it was new, what parts were covered, and for how long. It's useful if you're checking how much protection the car had originally.
Greenhouse Gas Ratings
On the window sticker, you can find the vehicle's greenhouse gas ratings, the score range from 1 to 10. With higher numbers meaning fewer emissions and a smaller carbon footprint.
Window Sticker for Classic Car?
Got a vintage car and want to know its original factory details? Classic vehicles made before 1981 didn't use the modern 17-character VIN, so finding their original window stickers can be a bit harder.
The good news is that Detailed Vehicle History can help. It provides access to a genuine classic build sheet, complete with vehicle history reports and even old auction records, perfect for anyone restoring or collecting classic cars.