Buying a car is an activity with which a lot people have a bit of problem. This is due to the fact that it can be hard to determine what sort of car you really want. You need to be able to negotiate, as well as other things. Use this article to help you become an expert car shopper.

When you shop for a car, you need to figure out what you’re looking for first. How much money can you afford to spend? How many people are you going to transport? What is your desirable gas mileage on a car? Do you want a four door vehicle or something a bit smaller? Make sure to jot down all the qualities you want in your car.

If you don’t negotiate down when you’re shopping for a car, then you’re throwing away your money. A person should never end up paying the sticker price. Sticker prices are marked intentionally marked up so that the dealer has room to negotiate.

You should apply for a car loan before going to a dealership. This takes a long time when buying a car because of them having to secure your lender and check your credit score. Already having a loan will speed up the whole process.

Make sure you know about the dealer prior to negotiating for a vehicle. You will have more negotiating power if you know how they operate and what finance options they offer. In addition, being aware of the dealer’s customer reviews can prevent the dealer from ripping you off.

Bring in an impartial mechanic before purchasing used. When a dealership refuses, they are usually hiding something. Your mechanic will check for things such as engine wear, if it has been in an area affected by flooding, as well as many other problematic things.

You should never pay the full sticker price of a car. The price on the sticker isn’t what the dealer really wants. If you do not feel comfortable with your negotiating techniques, bring a friend with you who is. Make sure you research the car you are interested in first, however, so you have some idea of what to offer.

Get recommendations from people you trust. Are they impressed with the cars that they have? Perhaps they regret their choice? Do they know of a car that’s really good? This is a great way to get a lay of the land before you begin your car shopping.

You should not expect to necessarily walk away from a dealership with a vehicle. In fact, you may be able to buy a car from a used lot or private seller. So before heading out to a lot, go pick up some classifieds, read up on Craigslist, and check other venues to see if you can find a good deal.

Try shopping online. You can find any car you can imagine online. Do all your research well before heading to a dealership. You can look on the Internet for information like MPG, specifications, resell value, size and ratings.

When shopping for a car, you should take along a friend that has no interest in you purchasing a car. A friend there with no interest in the automobile will provide an honest, impartial assessment about the decision. Take them along with you during the test drive, and ask them to tell you any negatives they see.

Ask if you can have the car looked over by your mechanic. This should be someone you trust. Do not use a mechanic suggested by the dealer. A good mechanic can help you determine whether or not the vehicle is priced reasonably and free of defects.

When purchasing a used car, always do your homework. The Internet provides many sources that can inform you of your car’s value. In order to find out the value of a car, use NADA or the Kelly Blue Book. If a place is trying to sell the vehicle for more than it’s actually worth, then it’s in your best interest to go somewhere else.

If you know you want a specific model, call ahead and ask if the dealer has one on the lot. If you visit a dealer without knowing in advance what you are looking for, a salesperson will try to sell you ANYTHING. Make sure, though, that the car is there for you. Instead, call the dealership and ask.

Buying a car should be a lot less mysterious to you now. It can be easy as long as you use the tips you’ve read. Once you are cruising down the road in your new ride, you’ll be happy you followed these tips. Have the best drive ever thanks to your diligent work!