New and used cars near San Diego, CA
Car Dogs shows cars from franchised dealers closest to San Diego, with the price, taxes and fees spelled out. We don't sell cars. Every car belongs to the dealer named on it.
Sales tax in San Diego
The combined sales tax rate in San Diego is 7.75% (California Department of Tax and Fee Administration, effective October 1, 2026). In California, sales tax on a car is based on where you register it, not where the dealer is.
Dealers closest to San Diego
- North County Ford
- Kearny Mesa Toyota
- Sedano Lincoln
- Team Mazda of El Cajon
- K&S Alfa Romeo of San Diego
- BMW of Carlsbad
- AutoNation Subaru Carlsbad
- Toyota Carlsbad
What California lets a dealer charge in San Diego
- Sales tax: 7.75% here, charged on the selling price where you register the car.
- Document fee: capped at $85 for most dealers under California Vehicle Code 4456.5. Anything above that is a red flag.
- Electronic filing fee: commonly about $33. It is optional for the dealer to charge but must be disclosed.
- California tire fee: $1.75 per new tire, set by the state.
- DMV registration, title and license fee: paid to the state and mostly based on the car's value. The dealer collects it and passes it on.
- Add-ons (nitrogen, paint protection, etched VINs, service plans) are never required. Under the CARS Act each one needs its own price and your written OK.
Fee amounts other than sales tax are typical state figures, not a quote. Check a real quote.
What matters when you buy in the San Diego area
- Coastal salt air speeds up corrosion. On used cars, check the underbody, brake lines and exhaust.
- Hybrids and EVs suit mixed freeway and city driving. Factor home charging into the decision.
- Ask for every add-on in writing with its own price before you agree to it.
Car buying in San Diego: quick answers
How much is sales tax on a car in San Diego?
7.75%, based on the official CDTFA rate effective October 1, 2026. It's charged where you register the car.
Which franchised dealers are closest to San Diego?
North County Ford, Kearny Mesa Toyota, Sedano Lincoln, Team Mazda of El Cajon and 4 more in the San Diego area.
Which shelter does Car Dogs support near San Diego?
Shoppers in San Diego help Friends of Upland Animal Shelter in Upland, CA. See adoptable dogs.
Can I buy from a private owner near San Diego?
Yes. Owner cars on Car Dogs come from people who proved they own the car with a title or registration and photo ID. Shop owner cars.