What Is an Addendum Sticker?
An addendum sticker is a supplemental vehicle window label used by car dealerships to display dealer installed accessories, optional features, service plans, market adjustments, or additional pricing not included on the MSRP (Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price) sticker. Typically, this sticker is applied to the same window as the manufacturer’s Monroney sticker, and serves to provide additional information regarding the vehicle’s total cost of purchase.
Addendum stickers usually disclose:
- Added upgrades (window tint, lift kits, or protection packages)
- Aftermarket accessories
- Service plans or warranty additions
- Market price adjustments
By providing a clear representation of all costs associated with purchasing a vehicle, addendum stickers provide a level of transparency and compliance to both the buyer and the dealership.
What Is the Difference Between an Addendum Sticker and an MSRP Sticker?
The difference between a sticker for the MSRP and a sticker for the Addendum is that a sticker for the MSRP price of a vehicle will include all of the options as installed from the manufacturer and the price for those options, whereas a sticker for the Addendum will list the options added to the vehicle at the time of purchase by the dealership.
These items may be options such as upgraded wheels or tires, extended warranty options or other items that were not included on the MSRP sticker by the manufacturer.
MSRP Sticker |
Addendum Sticker |
|
Issued by manufacturer |
Issued by dealership |
|
Includes factory equipment |
Includes dealer-installed items |
|
Federally required |
Required in some states |
|
Standardized format |
Customizable format |
Together, they give buyers a full and transparent picture of vehicle pricing.
Why Do Dealerships Use Addendum Stickers?
An addendum sticker serves several main functions for a dealership:
- Transparency: It lists any items that were installed by the dealer to enhance your vehicle, and/or the additional price of these items over the MSRP from the manufacturer.
- Legal Compliance: Many states now have laws that require the disclosure of all the upgrades (accessories) and prices added by the dealer.
- Revenue Protection: Dealerships will many times install various upgrades on a vehicle including but not limited to:
-
- Paint protection
- Nitrogen tire package
- Upgrade wheels
- Security system
- Appearance packages
All upgrades are listed on the addendum sticker so they can be accounted for and valued correctly.
A clean, well-organized addendum sticker reinforces trust and credibility.
Dealers looking for professional templates can view ready-to-use options here.
How to Read an Addendum Sticker (For Buyers)
When looking an addendum sticker at the dealership, look for:
- Itemized accessories
- Clear descriptions
- Individual pricing per upgrade
- Total adjusted vehicle price
If you have questions, you can ask:
- Is this optional?
- Can this be removed?
- Is this negotiable?
Typically, dealer installed options may be negotiable.
Professional Addendum Sticker Options for Dealers
If you're a dealership, consistency matters. Expert designed addendum stickers ensure compliance and create a polished customer experience.
You can explore standard options here:
Personalized Addendum Stickers: Stand Out & Strengthen Your Brand
In the automotive market, branding plays a major role in customer perception. The use of customized stickers on vehicles allows dealers to personalize their vehicle by adding logos; utilizing their own brand colors; listing their contact information; creating a premium feel that ties into their other branding; and differentiating themselves from their competitors.
Custom window sticker options are available here:
- Exterior Vehicle Window Stickers (Custom)
- Car Dealer Addendum Window Stickers (Custom)
- Exterior Addendum Labels
You can also learn more about how personalization sets your dealership apart in our customization blog.
Are Addendum Stickers Negotiable?
For buyers: Yes they can be for buyers, but it is dependent upon the demand at that time, what your local dealership allows and current market conditions.
For dealers: Clear and professional disclosure reduces friction, builds trust, and improves the buying experience.
Do All States Require Addendum Stickers?
The answer to this question varies greatly from state to state. The majority of states require some type of disclosure when there are additional fees charged to you or other changes to the vehicle that were made after the purchase price was negotiated (i.e., window stickers).
However, the regulation of these disclosures also vary. In addition to the disclosure requirements, each state has their own way of regulating how the final price of the vehicle must be displayed on the vehicle's window.
Thebest course of action would be to check your local motor vehicle regulations regarding addendum stickers to ensure you are in compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Addendum Stickers
What is included on an addendum sticker?
Items include, but are not limited to, items such as dealer installed accessories, aftermarket upgrades, service packages, price adjustment(s), and total added value of a vehicle.
Is an addendum sticker the same as the MSRP sticker?
No. The MSRP sticker will be provided by the automobile manufacturer. The addendum sticker will be generated by your local dealership.
Can dealer add-ons be removed?
It depends on whether the upgrade has already been installed and dealership policy.
Are addendum stickers required by law?
In some states, yes. Regulations vary by state
Where is an addendum sticker placed?
It’s commonly displayed on the vehicle window next to the manufacturer’s Monroney sticker.
Final Thoughts
Addendum stickers are far more than a sticker; they are a critical component to transparency in your vehicle pricing.
They provide clarity for the buyer as to the final cost of their purchase. They also help protect revenue for the dealership, provide assurance that the dealership is complying with local regulations, and will demonstrate to customers the level of professionalism of the dealership.
Regardless if you want generic template stickers or custom branded stickers, there are many professional ways to have addendum stickers made which can make a big impact on how your prices look and whether you are compliant.
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