Buying a car is one of the biggest financial moves you’ll make. To get a solid deal without the stress, you need a plan that goes beyond just picking a color.
Before you fall in love with a car, know what you can actually afford. car buying 101
Never walk into a dealership without financing already in your pocket. Buying a car is one of the biggest
Visit your bank or a credit union first. A pre-approval gives you a baseline interest rate to compare against whatever the dealer offers. Never walk into a dealership without financing already
Pick 2–3 models that fit your needs. Read independent reviews from sites like Consumer Reports or Autoblog .
Aim to keep your total monthly car expenses (payment, insurance, fuel, and maintenance) around 10% of your gross monthly income.
Dealers may lower your monthly payment by stretching the loan to 6 or 7 years, which actually costs you much more in interest over time. Always negotiate the total purchase price , not the monthly payment. 4. The Test Drive & Inspection