As you buy a car, your main priority is likely to be good value. However, it is difficult to make the best value a reality when you are confronted by dealers wanting to haggle. This article will show you how to do it right.

You need to be informed when you step onto the car lot. Have you taken a good look at your budget? Will you need to tote a big family around? How many miles per gallon would you like? Do you want a two door or a sedan? Write out your wish list, and take it to the dealership with you.

Check into vehicles online before you start working with a dealership. Don’t visit a dealership until you have a good idea of what you want in a vehicle, such as size, brand, and pricing. You should do a little Internet research first to see what brand might work for you, which cars are the safest and other things that a dealership won’t tell you.

Prior to purchasing a used car, ask an independent mechanic to have a look. If a dealer will not let you bring your own mechanic, go somewhere else. A mechanic will help you identify issues and recognize signs of a wreck if you are purchasing a used car.

Have some company escort you when shopping for a new car. This person can provide another perspective, which can help you make the best decision. You can take your significant other with you, your mom or dad, or a friend.

Safety features are important when you are shopping for a new car. It is essential to have anti-lock brakes. It should have plenty of air bags, too. You are going to spend a lot of time in this vehicle, so safety is paramount.

When purchasing a new car, try purchasing something that will cost you less in gas. You may feel the need to buy a V-8 that can tow things. You should keep in mind that you may not need the towing feature that frequently, and you may not need a vehicle that makes that much power.

Interest Rate

If you are wanting to buy a new car, you should ask your bank for financing before you go to the dealership. This will help you know how much money you can borrow and the type of interest rate you will be looking at. Usually the dealership’s finance department can find a better rate for you than a bank, but it can help if you find what interest rate you’re looking at prior to shopping.

Don’t drive an expensive car to the lot. The dealer will take one look at your vehicle and refuse to work with you on negotiating a lower price. The only time this is a good idea is if you are planning to trade in such a vehicle.

You can test out a few different vehicles by renting them. Purchase these from car companies for a short period of time to get a better overall feel. Use the car to take your family on a road trip so you can determine if that particular model will be a good fit for your family. It’s a cheap way to make sure that you’re getting the right car before you purchase and make a commitment to it.

Do not buy a used car without doing some research. You can find a lot of information on the Internet. The NADA or the Kelly Blue Book can help you determine the value. If your dealer is attempting to sell you a car for a larger price than these two sources say it’s worth, then walk away.

If you know the specific model that you want, call the dealership to see if they have it on the lot. If you visit the dealership without doing that, the salesperson will try to sell you any car that is on the lot. But, if your heart is set on a particular car that they do not currently have on-site, you do not need to waste your time. Make a quick call and find out the situation.

You should use these tips when you go car shopping. You won’t have to worry about being told things you do not know, and you can figure out salespersons’ tactics. Keep this advice handy and get to the dealership.