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The thought of purchasing a new car can be exciting and stressful. Learn all you can ahead of time, and you will be much more likely to pick a car that fits your family’s needs. This article is a great starting point, as it will help you understand the steps you need to take.

Shop around online before visiting a dealership. The only time they should be visited is when you know what make and brand you desire. Research online to see what brands you want, which are safer and other items dealers will not tell you.

Never buy a model that is out of your price range. Salespeople will try talking you into buying a luxury or a sports car by telling you this car corresponds to your personality. You need to be aware that this salesperson is looking to make money through a commission, as well.

Total Price

When negotiating, focus on the total price instead of the monthly one. The dealer can set the monthly payments at any amount, but this will extend your terms, resulting in a very high purchase price. Focus your negotiating on getting the best deal possible on the total price and financing you receive. Then, you can think of how much you will be paying each month.

Have your loan financing already arranged prior to shopping for a car. You can talk to a bank or a credit union about it. You will get a much better interest rate by doing this.

Get the advice from trusted family and friends. Are they pleased with their own vehicles? Do they regret their purchase? Do they know anything about the latest cars to hit the market? This is a great way to get a lay of the land before you begin your car shopping.

If you are purchasing a new vehicle, you should be aware of what you can spend. When shopping, do not go above the maximum amount you can pay, no matter what the dealer tells you. Remember that you are the one that might be paying for your car for around 6 years, not the dealer.

When negotiating, focus on the price of the car overall, not just the monthly payment. Dealers can alter monthly payments to fit your budget, but that doesn’t mean the car is costing you any less. Get the best overall price and then deal with financing. Then, you can negotiate the terms.

Test drive any car before you purchase. This is true even if you’ve driven another car of the same model. It’s important to know how this exact car handles. You may find something slightly off, or even a hidden defect.

If you feel like you can be talked into things easily, make sure someone goes to the dealerships with you. A friend can provide relief and reduce the amount of stress that you face. Discuss your needs and the limits of your budget with your adviser before you visit a car lot.

When you go shopping for a new car, have someone else go with you. Your person will be your second set of eyes and ears. Bring a friend, a parent or a spouse.

Test Drive

Test drive a car before buying it. It doesn’t matter that you may already have decided on the car. You should still take a test drive regardless. This will give you a real life feel of the car. You might notice that the feel of the car isn’t what you expected.

When you’re making a vehicle purchase, try keeping the fuel economy in mind. For instance, you may want a large vehicle so you can tow your camper during the summer months. But, is that really a need or simply a want? Are you actually going to use that feature? If not, it may not be the wisest investment.

Try to plan your car shopping trip for the end of the month. Usually, salesmen have quotas to meet at the end of the month. As month’s end approaches, salespeople who have not yet met their quotas may be more amenable to giving you a better deal in order to increase their numbers.

Social security numbers should never be given out unless it is absolutely necessary. Dealers will use it to check your credit report when you give it to them. If you decide not to purchase there, having your credit run by multiple dealerships can hurt your chances of getting the best deal. Be positive that you have a solid deal waiting to go before you provide your SSN and other information.

If you are in the market for a new car, you should call your bank before shopping and make sure you can get a loan. This can provide you with important peace of mind. Normally a dealership can give you a better interest rate than a bank.

You should have your number in mind before stepping onto a car lot. Base this number on your budget and the research you have done about what a car should be worth.

Review a car you want very well. Inspect the exterior of the car for scratches and dents. Make sure to scrutinize the interior, looking for damages and stains. Know that once you buy this vehicle, it’s your problem. Any dents or stains found later will be your responsibility.

Don’t roll up to the dealership in an expensive car. No matter how good you are at negotiating, they will reject any lower offers you put forth. If you are going to trade in that nice car, then that is the only reason you would bring it with you.

Not everyone loves to car shop. You really can get a good car and enjoy the process if you learn a few pointers ahead of time. By taking the advice from this article with you when you go to purchase your next vehicle, you will find yourself much more comfortable with the process.