Car Buying Guide

How to choose your perfect car?

Which Car Do I Want?  What Car Do I Need? - What does your vehicle need to do for you?  What are the available choices and options?  Review the various types of car, truck and hybrid; safety features; front-wheel versus rear-wheel versus all-wheel drive; stick versus automatic transmission; optional equipment; and other considerations.   Here's where you begin to sort through the huge variety of automobiles available, narrowing the choice down to a few categories.

How Much Can you Afford? - The down payment and the monthly installment aren't the only costs of owning an automobile.  There are many hidden expenses.  To see what money you can realistically afford to put into your car, make a budget early in your car-buying quest. If you need to finance, use a payment calculator to see how changes in rate, purchase price, term, and down payment can reduce your loan payments. 

Using Internet Resources - Valuable shopping advice and price information online helps you refine your choices further.  You become an expert on the cars on your list: what options they come with, what is their price.

New or Used? - Although new car prices are relatively low, it's easy to find a like-new car for substantially less money.  Why buy new?  There are benefits and drawbacks of both new and used vehicles.

Financing Options - To get a good deal, get the financing first. How?  Loans and leases involve renting money. Some companies offer special loans just for cars. (e.g uCan Car Credit)

Leasing Explained - Leasing is a good idea for businesses, salespeople, or people who can deduct the payments on their taxes.  Leasing offers lower payments than conventional financing;

Locating a Good Vehicle - To be a smart car-buyer you need to comparison-shop.  There are hundreds of places to look for new and used vehicles.

Dealing With Dealers - For a hands-on look at your choices, it's time to visit the car lots.  It is importnat to know how to choose a dealership and handle the salespeople. 

Taking the Test Drive - The test drive comes a long way before any negotiation on price.  You're here to experience for yourself how different makes and models handle and perform.

Final Vehicle Selection - Narrow down the choices and figure out a reasonable price.

Mechanic's Inspection - If a previously-enjoyed vehicle makes your final cut, don't make a big mistake! A thorough mechanic's inspection is your best protection against buying a used car with costly, hidden problems.

Shopping for Insurance - Don't sign anything until you find out what your insurance costs will be.  Before you buy, get a quote on the car you want from an online insurance broker who represents many different firms (Lloyd TSB).

Selling Your Old Car - How to sell your current vehicle? If you need the cash the best way is to list it with a nationwide used car classified service on the internet.

Buying on the Internet - Discount internet buying services are great for busy people and for cost-conscious consumers who dread typical dealer negotiating or are fearful of being ripped off.

Final Dealer Negotiations - Here's where your knowledge, patience, and hard work pay off.

Maintenance - Don't play dangerous games with your precious new possession.  The dealer's service department or your independent mechanic can provide reliable service and spot problems before they turn into disasters, if you visit regularly.