A car represents one of the most substantial purchases you are likely to make in a given year. The key to striking the best deal and getting the vehicle you need is to spend some time doing your research. Use the advice that follows below and you will have the facts you need to make a smart decision.

Always ask the seller if they are willing to let you do a test drive. While some private sellers may not offer you the chance to do a test drive, there are many that will. You should try to do your deal with someone who will allow you to see how the car runs.

Do not allow yourself to buy the first car that you see, even if it seems like it would be perfect for you. There are so many vehicles out there for sale that buying the first one may cause you to lose out on making a much better deal on a car you may like a bit more.

When buying a used car, be very careful about how clean the car is. Many car salespeople have professional cleaners who can make a piece of junk look brand new. Always get the car checked by a mechanic. Even if it looks fantastic, a mechanic will be able to spot any major issues.

Before you go in to look at a new car, make sure you have thoroughly researched the proper trade in value of your current car. In fact, why not try to sell it yourself first before you buy. Either way, you will get more from your vehicle if you know what it is really worth.

Never discuss down payments, incentives, or trade-ins until you’ve established an actual price on your desired car. Then you can consider incentives, trade ins and down payments. This will ensure you get the best deal.

Never purchase a car the same day that you find it. A rule of thumb is to sleep on the decision. That way you have time to think about the pros and cons of the car and how much you think the car is for you. Do not worry that the car will be sold in the meantime as there are many more out there.

While you may want to buy a car today, buying off the lot may mean that they don’t have a car with the features you desire. You can always ask them to call affiliated dealerships to see if they have the car on the lot, but don’t sound desperate or they’ll raise the price.

Talk to your friends and neighbors before buying your car. Ask what their experience was like with various dealerships, and visit only the dealerships that you are hearing positive things about. This can save you a lot of hassle while you are shopping and make your car buying experience that much more pleasant.

Never shop for a car based on what you want to pay monthly. Most car sellers will try to help you shop around a monthly payment. This means they can put you in a car that is not what you want by telling you it is what you can afford. The only one who wins is the dealership.

Used car deals can often be found online. You do not even have to go to the dealership until you are sure. Instead, look on eBay, Craigslist and your local classified ads. You can save tons of cash and avoid pressure sales you’d get at a dealership.

Many of the perks a dealer offers are really expensive, including rust-proofing, paint sealant and anti-theft devices. Shop around before you even approach the lot to find out what local car shops are charging for these services, and then take the quotes you get with you to either get a deal from the dealer or skip those add-ons totally.

Whenever buying a certified pre-owned vehicle, try and find out what the return policy is, or even if one exists. If one does, make sure you understand how long it is and whether or not you will get registration and licence fees refunded along with sales tax for the vehicle.

Not all dealerships operate the same way. Although car salesmen are known for being bossy, this tactic is not as popular as it once was. If you are more careful with a buyer this time, they are likely to come back and buy again. If you’ve got an aggressive sales person, don’t be shy about walking away. Believe it or not, some salespeople are quite pleasant to work with.

How the staff at a dealership treats you when you arrive and thereafter show a lot about how they work. If the same salesperson takes you from start to finish, you have a good lot. If they pass you off to a high pressure “closer,” you might want to head to another location.

Discuss insurances prices with your carrier before you get that new vehicle. Even if this car is affordable now to you, you have to think in the long term as to what the insurance will cost. You want to choose a car that offers affordable insurance rates along with the features you desire.

Ask the dealer to take the advertising fee of your car’s price. It would be asinine is you were responsible for it. If they insist, threaten to walk. Chances are, you won’t get too far.

When car shopping, do not limit yourself to only new vehicles. There are many good used vehicles that still have a warranty. Used vehicles can generally save you thousands without sacrificing safety and reliability. To get the best deal on used cars do your homework first and know the value of the used car.

New car shopping is stressful simply because it involves spending such a great deal of money. Education is critical to making a wise choice, given the abundance of choices available. Review the information above as needed, and the process really can be easier than you may have ever imagined it could be.