Automobiles

Shopping for a new car

Before you begin shopping

• Decide which car model and specific options you want.
• Find out the invoice price and the true cost to the dealer of the model and options you want.
• Decide how much you are willing to pay the dealer above the invoice price.
• Make your offer to as many dealers as possible.
• Compare final sales prices with other dealers and buying services.
• Compare financing costs from various sources.
• If you already have a car, find out its value independent of the dealer's trade-in offer.
• Try to sell your old car yourself (dealers usually give better deals without a trade-in).
• Decide whether you need an optional service contract or credit insurance.