Car shopping can be a lengthy process. There are many cars and items to look at. You have to know what it takes to do it right. The following advice will allow you to purchase a vehicle quicker.

Do not buy a car without test driving it. Even if you once had the same exact vehicle, you have to be sure that this one works just as well. There might be a slight difference or mechanical problems that you won’t pick up without a test drive.

Don’t just think about getting a car from a dealership. It may surprise you to learn that your ideal car can be purchased from a private seller or even a small car lot. Take advantage of classified ads and websites intended to help you identify sources for the car you want.

Take a potential winning vehicle for a spin before buying! You never know how the car is going to run, despite how it may look outside. Always take the time to test the equipment. A test drive can give you so much information. You may find that the car has a rougher ride than expected or is just not what you anticipated.

Test a car by renting the same make and model. If you really desire to get a good feel for your potential vehicle, an extended rental is the way to go. Go on a road trip or something so the car can be tested to see if it works with what you need it to work with. Doing so helps you make an informed decision on such a large commitment.

Social security numbers should not be given until a deal is made. A lot of places can use this information and they’ll take it and use it to run your credit. Having multiple dealerships check your credit will have a negative effect on your score. Be positive that you have a solid deal waiting to go before you provide your SSN and other information.

An impartial friend can help you make a wise decision with your car. They can make sure you will not make stupid mistakes. Take them along with you during the test drive, and ask them to tell you any negatives they see.

Your trade-in should be kept a secret. Never tell the salesperson right away what you have for a trade in. The value of the trade
-in will almost certainly be added into your purchase price if they know you have one before you start negotiating.

Once you find a car in which you are interested, check it out carefully. Look for scratches or dents on the outside. Also, search the interior for stains or tears. As soon as you leave the dealership, any problems you find will be your problem. This means to look for any and all damage

Never sign an As-is warranty when buying a used car. You will end up regretting this decision. Never agree to purchase a used vehicle unless you are assured at least a 30 day warranty. You will have no recourse of a major repair is needed immediately after you drive away from the dealer’s lot.

You should wait a while before buying any car model that has been released recently. If you get a car that just came out, it will cost you quite a bit more than if you just wait. Give it a few months to allow the hype to ease up then go looking to buy one.

Head out to buy a car in the last few days of the month. Salesmen are all about the monthly quota, and your sale might just get them there. Go car shopping during the last week of the month, take a couple of days to negotiate and you will get a good deal.

Be aware that advertising fees are sometimes tacked on to the price of a car. There isn’t any reason that you need to pay this fee! If they insist on keeping it, tell them you’re walking out on the deal. They will always back down.

When the sales agent has to get his manager to review your offer, keep in mind that he will not return with the lowest offer the first time. Give them another counter offer, and they’ll give it to their manager. The price should lower at this point. The salesperson and manager want to close deals quickly, so they will generally offer the lowest price on the next round of offers.

In some cases, waiting until the last week of the month helps you to secure a better deal. Dealerships try to meet monthly quotas. When you make your purchase at month end, it is likely that your deal will help them reach their quota. Negotiating works very well at this time of the month.

Review the car’s “hidden” costs. Different cars can have different fuel efficiencies, maintenance costs, resale values, and insurance costs. Repair costs can also add to the cost of owning a car. All the things that are hidden in buying a car can make or break your decision to get that vehicle.

Do not be overwhelmed by a pushy salesperson. If a salesperson seems too friendly to be true, it’s probably just an act to win you over. Don’t be swayed by a friendly smile. Use your wits, and stick to your guns.

Take your time when you are going through the car shopping process. Dealers will always try to make things seem urgent in order to pressure you into making a purchase right away. Take your time. The “special deal” will almost always still be available when the time is right for you to seal the deal.

When car shopping, having good advice will allow you to make wiser decision you won’t regret later. Make use of the tips you’ve learned here to ensure that you have a great experience. They should assist you in making the best possible decision on your car purchase.