: Always line up your financing through a credit union or bank before you ever step onto a dealer's lot. This prevents the dealer from using "monthly payment talk" to hide the true cost of the loan.
Don't mention paying in cash too early, as dealers often make more profit on financing and may be less willing to negotiate the sale price if they know they won't get that kickback. Maintenance & Longevity
: Only buy new if you plan to keep the vehicle for at least 10 years. Because new cars depreciate so rapidly in the first few years, keeping them for a decade or more is the only way to make the math work in your favor. clark howard buying a new car
Avoid saying you "love" the car or that your current vehicle is "on its last legs".
: Do not negotiate based on monthly payments. Instead, focus strictly on the total "out-the-door" price, which includes all taxes and fees, to ensure you aren't overpaying. : Always line up your financing through a
When talking to a salesperson, avoid revealing information that could weaken your leverage:
: To keep your finances healthy, aim to put 20% down, limit the loan term to 48 months (4 years), and ensure total vehicle expenses stay under 10% of your monthly income. What to Keep to Yourself Maintenance & Longevity : Only buy new if
For money expert Clark Howard, buying a new car should be a transparent and honest transaction rather than a high-pressure negotiation . His core philosophy is to do your homework ahead of time to avoid common dealership pitfalls. Clark's Key Rules for Buying New