So, you’ve been looking at that ancient vehicle on no credit check auto dealers “Buy Here Pay Here” lot, crossing your fingers that no one sees the tattoo of your previous repo on your credit score? You’re not the only one. But get ready: the rules for bad credit car dealerships and “Buy Here Pay Here” (BHPH) havens are changing faster than a squirrel in traffic.

First, verification is now the main thing. Dealers don’t only look at your driver’s license and last paycheck anymore. Expect to be looked at more closely. Proof of income? Normal. Bills for utilities? Put them in. That note from your aunt saying she would babysit on Fridays just to get by? Maybe you shouldn’t bring it; it’s not likely to work these days. These new rules say that these individuals have to check out your whole tale.

But it’s not a one-way street. Lenders can’t conceal those crazy high interest rates behind five layers of nonsense anymore. Now, they have to clearly explain the terms of payment to you. There won’t be any more small print in the contract or “gotcha” provisions at the back of a sticky folder. If they try to pull the old switcheroo, there’s a high chance they’ll be in more difficulty than a weatherman in a snowstorm.

It’s worth saying again that changes in the law hurt collections a lot. Late fees, threats of repossession, and those annoying reminder calls that never stop must now follow a stricter script. Getting rid of too forceful methods. The law says “nope” if a dealer tries to terrify you with a call after nightfall or threatens to take your automobile on a Sunday morning. This is bad luck for them and good luck for you.

What about telling? Some BHPH dealers used to keep your payment history secret, which hurt your credit. Now, more dealers have to give that information to the credit bureaus. On the one hand, paying late hurts more. On the other hand, payments that are made on time don’t just disappear into thin air anymore.

Background checks for the dealers themselves are also getting more strict. Cities and states are making sure that those who sell wheels have clean backgrounds. Larry can’t get away with being “Car Lot King” after a few poor deals and a smack on the wrist anymore.

Let’s discuss about how clear trade-ins are. People are looking closely at those old radio advertising that said, “We’ll pay off your loan—promise!” Dealers now have to give you a written account of what you owe, what you’ve paid, and what is included in your new loan. There will be fewer “surprise” numbers to deal with a month from now.

Are you worried about your privacy? Dealers have to keep their customers’ information safe. There are new punishments for selling, losing, or misusing personal information. If someone in the back office tries to steal your information, they will face serious consequences. Be on the lookout and ask questions.

You might see additional contracts, more signatures, and more concerns about how much money you really make each month. It can feel like jumping through hoops. Take a deep breath. Better rules might entail spending an extra minute at your desk, but they help you get rid of more tricks than a magician at a birthday party.

So the next time you try to get a ride, be on the lookout. The streets are changing, and auto sellers need to be honest. If something seems off or like a repeat of dealer drama, you have more backup than ever. These days, the fine print should have just as many bells and whistles as the cars.