There are people out there that know a lot about cars and know exactly how much every make and model of car are worth. But most buyers are not confident about their ability to select the right vehicle. If you’re not properly informed, you will find these tips to be of great use.

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. It is a better idea to concentrate on getting a great deal on the final vehicle price, including the financing. Then you can work on how much it will cost monthly.

Get input and feedback from family members and friends. Do they have a car they love? Do they have any tips for you? Do they know of a car that’s really good? This is the best way to start gathering information when purchasing a car.

Check the safety features of any car you are interested in. You must make sure you have ABS or antilock brakes. You need to buy a car that is equipped with airbags; this is safer than without. Safety is of the utmost importance because you will spend much time in this car.

When purchasing a new car, try purchasing something that will cost you less in gas. For example, a V-8 that can tow may seem smart at first. However, when you think about how often you’d really use it to tow things, you may decide that you really don’t need that gas-guzzler.

Never disclose the trade-in, what you have down, or what you want until you have a price ironed out. All of this should come out of your agreed bottom line. You are sure to do better if you negotiate the price first, then throw in the other factors.

Check the Internet before you buy. You can find nearly any car you want. Learn all you can about the vehicles you are considering before you even step one foot on the car lot. By using the Internet, it is possible to come up with ratings, specifications, MPG, size, resale value and much more.

Car salesmen have quotas to meet. Use this to your advantage and shop for your car at month-end. Salesman that haven’t made their expected numbers will just try to make another sale. This may make negotiations easier.

Know your purchasing price before you drive to the dealership. Choose a number that takes into consideration the amount you are capable of spending, as well as the value of the vehicle itself.

Do not buy used cars without doing research first. There are many websites online that will give you an estimate of what your car can be sold for. Blue book websites are great for finding out about a car’s value. If there is a dealer selling cars at too high of a price, search other places.

Ask the dealer to eliminate any advertising fees that are attached to the price of your car. It would be asinine is you were responsible for it. If they wish to keep it, then consider walking away from this deal. They are sure to reconsider their refusal.

Prior to visiting a car dealership, do your research. Weigh your vehicle needs and check comparisons, reviews and articles to find the models that suit them. Through doing so, you will also understand the option packages that come with each vehicle and the prices to expect. You will save yourself a lot of hassle when shopping for a car.

Never permit a car salesman to swindle you. They sometimes seem quite trustworthy, but that can be just for show. Make sure you don’t let it pressure you into making a bad purchase.

Choose a vehicle that has a reputation for running well and for not needing costly repairs. There is no point in purchasing an affordable vehicle if you are going to spend a lot on maintenance. Look online to see what model is best for you.

If you’re purchasing a vehicle and you think you have the credit to get the interest rate the bank offers, go for it! This allows you to save some cash, and you’ll be able to settle for less than other lenders would offer. Go with the firm that offers you the best interest rates!

Keep in mind that low payments per month might reflect a larger long term price tag. You can easily become distracted with a low payment without realizing the total amount you will be paying for the car. Sales staff will try to entice you with low numbers but not tell you that it increases the overall cost of the car exponentially. Be sure you read all the fine print before signing.

Speak to friends and family about their dealership experiences. See if their dealers are recommended. Have a conversation about details including post-sales service. Go to the dealership that the majority of your friends recommend.

Do not feel helpless any longer. Armed with this information, you can make the right car decision. When you pay the right price on a car, you will love it even more. So, really enjoy shopping!