How the FTC’s pricing rules are impacting dealers now and what needs to change - CBT News
The FTC's pricing rules, including the CARS Rule, are currently impacting auto dealers by requiring clear, upfront pricing disclosures and prohibiting hidden fees. Dealers must ensure advertised prices include all mandatory charges, and any add-on products must be optional with customer consent. Non-compliance risks FTC enforcement actions and penalties.
Aforeworn detected this change in the Auto Dealer F&I Compliance space on July 6, 2026 and published this briefing so affected operators are forewarned rather than caught off guard. It is rated High urgency. All auto dealers (franchise, independent, BHPH) and F&I managers should confirm how it applies to their specific situation before acting. There is a time constraint attached: Immediately; ongoing compliance required.. Acting after that point can mean penalties, a lapsed licence, or lost eligibility — exactly the kind of surprise Aforeworn exists to prevent. Aforeworn monitors Auto Dealer F&I Compliance continuously and turns every detected change into a plain-English briefing like this one, so you always know first. Forewarned is forearmed.
What changed
The FTC is actively enforcing pricing rules that require dealers to disclose the full price (excluding only government fees) in advertising and obtain express, informed consent for any add-on products. The CARS Rule specifically targets deceptive practices in vehicle sales and financing.
Who it affects
All auto dealers (franchise, independent, BHPH) and F&I managers
What you must do
Review and update all advertising and sales processes to ensure compliance with FTC pricing rules: advertise the full price, make add-ons optional, and obtain written consent for each add-on product.
Deadline
Immediately; ongoing compliance required.
Never miss a change like this again
Aforeworn watches Auto Dealer F&I Compliance around the clock and alerts you the moment a rule moves — with a plain-English brief on what to do.
Start your free trialRelated changes in Auto Dealer F&I Compliance
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- Building an FTC-ready dealership through training, reviews, and AI - CBT News
- What dealers need to know to stay off the FTC’s radar - CBT News