How To Buy A New Car From A Dealer

Step 1: Choose Your Car

You should have a focused idea of new car you'll need. Narrow your search to a few choice models.

Step 2: Get Online

Learn everything you can about the vehicle. From safety and reliability ratings to resale value when you eventually part with the vehicle.

Step 3: Know the Score

You must know your credit score before you step into the dealership.

Step 4: Go Early, Stay Late

When you visit the dealership, be prepared to spend between two and four hours, although it could be even longer. Go early, right when the dealership opens or go at the end of the day, right before the dealership closes for the best negotiating conditions.

Step 5: Attitude Is Everything

Be confident, and be well-informed. This process is not for the timid or desperate.

Step 6: Test Drive

The test drive is the most important part of the car buying experience. Always spend some time on the road and make sure the dash, steering wheel and driver's seat are comfortable as this is where you will be spending most of your time.

Step 7: Can't Buy Love

Never let the dealer know that you've invested yourself emotionally in the vehicle.

Step 8: Debate the Rebate

Always inquiry about factory to dealer incentives or rebates on the vehicle - especially if its last year's model.

Step 9: Show Them The Money

It is always better to bring your own financing to the dealership. Always bargain to the total transaction price. And never reveal your target price to the salesman.

Step 10: No Deposit

Unless the car model is incredibly short supply, there is no reason to leave a deposit. If you feel a deposit is absolutely necessary, make sure it's refundable and that guarantee is written in the contract.

Step 11: Warranted

Salesman want you to sign an extended warranty since it is a profit center for the dealership. So deflect the additional expense of a warranty if you don't want it.