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Buying a new car can be tricky business. Frankly, choosing the right vehicle can be a challenge without the rigors of negotiating a deal and making the purchase. However, by using the right car-buying tips along with some patience, you can get the right new car or used ride for the right price. 

These car-buying tips can keep you from embarrassment, disappointment, and paying too much

It’s time. Maybe your trusty ride is on its last leg. Or perhaps you’ve saved well and it’s time to reward yourself with something fun like a sports car. Well, buying a new or used car is often easier said than done. However, you can observe these car-buying tips to avoid a ruinous, irritating shopping experience. 

  • If you’re seeking an auto loan for your purchase, get a preapproval
  • Shop around
  • Compare pricing and use any price-matching promises to your advantage
  • Take a test drive and get a pre-purchase inspection for used cars
  • Don’t be afraid to walk away from a deal

First, don’t make the mistake of going to a dealership without a plan for financing. Consider getting a loan preapproval through your credit union or bank. Better yet, getting preapproved for a loan can act as something of a temperature check for your credit. Furthermore, would-be car buyers can assess their budget and understand just how much car they can afford.

Moreover, car shoppers should shop around and compare prices before committing to one vehicle. Use online classifieds like Facebook Marketplace and car-shopping tools like our Car Buying Service to view and compare vehicle prices. Additionally, if the dealership you want to buy from has a price-matching structure, consider taking advantage of it.

So, you’ve found the car you like at the price you can handle. Great! Next, take a test drive. Test the vehicle for expected levels of responsive handling, throttle response, braking, and functionality. What’s more, listen to the vehicle as you drive, not just the sales pitch. Better yet, consider a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) for any used car.

Finally, don’t be afraid to walk away from a deal. It’s much better to shut down an in-progress deal than take on a car payment you can’t afford or don’t want.

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and M-ATVs. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with experience covering everything from sports cars to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations (IRG) from the University of Texas at Austin and has studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC).