Although the Window Sticker is primarily associated with new cars, its presence can be a valuable asset when purchasing a used vehicle from an auction in the USA. It helps verify the technical specifications and original price, which can assist in making an informed purchasing decision. If the car you want to buy does not have the Window Sticker, it is worth using available online tools or contacting the dealer to try to obtain a copy of this document.
The Window Sticker, also known as the Monroney Label, is a document placed on the windshield of a new car sold in the United States. It contains detailed information about the vehicle, such as specifications, price, equipment, and warranty conditions. For used cars at auctions in the USA, this document can be a valuable source of information about the car's equipment and its original retail price when new. Knowing the original price and specifications of the vehicle makes it easier to assess whether the auction price is reasonable, considering its age, technical condition, and potential damages. Today, the Window Sticker is also available in electronic form.
What information does the Window Sticker contain for a used car?
- Vehicle Specifications:
- Make, model, and year of production: Contains exact data about the vehicle, which helps confirm its authenticity and compliance with the auction description.
- VIN (Vehicle Identification Number): A crucial identification number that aids in verifying the vehicle's history and legality. It can also help identify potential issues, such as vehicle theft.
- Vehicle Equipment:
- List of standard and optional equipment: If the Window Sticker is available, it includes a list of all factory-installed options, which is especially helpful in assessing the vehicle's value.
- Information about the equipment version: This is useful when you want to know which specific safety, multimedia, or comfort systems were available in that model.
- Vehicle Price:
- New vehicle purchase price: The Window Sticker contains the original price of the vehicle, which can help assess its value at the time of purchase. This can also serve as a reference point for evaluating whether the auction price is adequate considering the vehicle's condition and equipment.
- Price of options: Any additional elements installed in the car may affect the final price.
- Warranty Information:
- Manufacturer’s warranties: Although the warranty for a new vehicle does not apply after its sale, in some cases, information about remaining warranty coverage, such as for the engine or drivetrain, may be transferable to subsequent owners.
- Safety Data:
- Safety ratings: The Window Sticker also includes information about safety test results conducted by organizations like NHTSA or IIHS, which is particularly important when choosing a used vehicle.
How to obtain the Window Sticker when purchasing a used car at an auction?
Although the Window Sticker is a document typically associated with new vehicles, its availability for used cars at USA auctions may vary. There are several ways to obtain it:
- Direct contact with the dealer: If you know which dealer originally sold the car, you can contact them to obtain a copy of the Window Sticker. Dealers often keep such information, especially for cars still in circulation.
- Websites that generate Window Stickers: There are online services that allow you to obtain a copy of the Window Sticker based on the VIN number, such as WindowSticker.com. By using the VIN, you can find the exact specifications of the vehicle that were originally available when the car was purchased new.
- Information on the dreambid.pl website: On our auction platform, we provide Window Stickers for selected vehicles completely free of charge for registered users.