How to buy your first car Advertiser Disclosure Advertiser Disclosure We are an independent, advertising-supported comparison service. Our aim is to assist you make better financial choices by offering interactive tools and financial calculators as well as publishing objective and original content. We also allow you to conduct your own research and compare information at no cost and help you make financial decisions with confidence. Bankrate has agreements with issuers such as, but not limited to, American Express, Bank of America, Capital One, Chase, Citi and Discover. How We Earn money The products that are advertised on this site are from companies that pay us. This compensation can affect the way and where products appear on the site, such as such things as the order in which they be listed within the categories of listing and other categories, unless prohibited by law. Our mortgage or home equity products, as well as other products for home loans. This compensation, however, does have no impact on the information we publish, or the reviews you read on this site. We do not cover the vast array of companies or financial deals that could be accessible to you. FG Trade/Getty Images

4 min read published March 02, 2023.

Authored by Rebecca Betterton Written by Auto Loans Reporter Rebecca Betterton is the auto loans reporter for Bankrate. She specializes in assisting readers in navigating the ins and outs of securely borrowing money to purchase an automobile. Edited by Rhys Subitch Edited by Auto loans editor Rhys has been writing and editing for Bankrate since late 2021. They are passionate about helping readers gain the confidence to control their finances by providing clear, well-researched information that dissects complicated issues into digestible chunks. The Bankrate guarantee

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There are money-related questions. Bankrate can help. Our experts have been helping you master your money for over four decades. We strive to continuously give our customers the right guidance and the tools necessary to make it through life’s financial journey. Bankrate adheres to a strict code of conduct , so you can trust that our content is truthful and reliable. Our award-winning editors and journalists create honest and accurate content that will help you make the best financial decisions. The content created by our editorial team is factual, objective and uninfluenced by our advertisers. We’re honest about the ways we’re in a position to provide quality information, competitive rates and helpful tools to you by explaining how we earn money. Bankrate.com is an independent, advertising-supported publisher and comparison service. We receive compensation for the promotion of sponsored goods and services, or when you click on specific links that are posted on our site. Therefore, this compensation may affect the way, location and when products appear within listing categories, unless it is prohibited by law for our mortgage home equity, mortgage and other home lending products. Other factors, such as our own proprietary website rules and whether or not a product is available within the area you reside in or is within your personal credit score could also affect how and where products appear on this website. Although we try to offer a wide range offers, Bankrate does not include specific information on each credit or financial products or services. The monthly average amount for a used car came to $526 during the quarter-fourth of the year 2022, and the newer cars were more expensive at $716, according to . For a new buyer, numbers this steep can be daunting and more daunting if you’re not experienced about the process. However, confidence is in the preparation. Therefore, you should take the time before heading to the internet or to a dealer to know the essential steps to take when buying your first vehicle. 1. Find out how much you can manage to afford. The first step in making an effective purchase is to determine first . your credit scores, your monthly income and the type of car you want should all factor into this choice. It is important to strike a balance between your budget and finding the right car for your needs. When determining your budget, consider the , not just the sticker price that you will see advertised. The true out-the-door price is the entire cost that you’ll have to pay, which includes tax and dealer charges. Once you have that number or a reasonable estimate, take into account your salary average and use a , which can help you determine what the monthly cost to finance the car will be. The bankrate tip

Car ownership has its own costs, so be sure you’ve got room in your budget for any additional expenses.

2. Make a savings account for a downpayment the price of your new car is the initial lump sum that you’ll pay. Aim to cover at least 20% of the purchase price which could take some time. Be patient and save for a is likely worthwhile if you can put off purchasing a car until you’ve got the money. It will save you more money in the long run and reduce the monthly cost. If you are unable to be patient, you can opt for a lower down payment. But, you might not get a good rate from your lender. In this instance, think about an alternative that is less expensive. The lower your overall cost it is the less you have to pay to pay for a down payment. 3. Take a look at your credit report If this vehicle is your first major financial investment, it is possible there isn’t a lengthy credit history. If this is the case, look over your credit history to determine which loan options are available. Your credit score is the primary element that lenders look at when determining the interest rates you will be offered. The better your credit will be, the better the interest rate you will receive. Make sure you know your credit score prior to talking to a potential dealer. It is possible to do this online through or for free at . It’s worth it to get your credit in good shape before applying for car financing if you can. 4. Choose the right car for you Choosing which vehicle is right for you requires a lot more consideration than just the color or design. Take into consideration other aspects, like the car’s durability, size for your requirements, technological features security features, gas mileage and the climate where you live. Check out and for these figures — and extra information about the price the car you are interested in typically is sold for. It is also a good moment to decide if you’d like to purchase to purchase a . While a new car is an exciting option, certified used (CPO) will give you a lower price tag while still boasting new features and a manufacturer-backed warranty. And if you aren’t in a hurry to get behind the wheel in the shortest time possible You can get a better deal by waiting . 5. Get prequalified for financing after you’ve gathered information about the kind of car you wish to purchase and your financial situation, you can look for lenders that provide prequalification. This step is vital to save money as well as putting you in control in deciding the most suitable financing option. Prequalification differs from full approval. Therefore, even when the prequalification process is completed, it’s not a done deal. Rather, preapproval will provide you with an idea of the potential rates and terms. It is still necessary to fill out a formal application after the preapproval, but you’ll have an idea if you can afford it before the deadline. The following are required when you apply to prequalify: Average income and finances. Personal information. Employment information. Any current debt. 6. Head to the dealership — in person or online After obtaining prequalification for a loan and selecting the car you want to buy now is the time to begin the car purchasing process. It is recommended to see what vehicles are available in your local area. Most dealers have their inventory listed on their websites and let you schedule appointments. It is essential to get behind the steering wheel of your prospective car and take it on a test drive before you purchase. Make sure you adjust the seat, and determine the space in your garage and can be used for your day-to-day activities. However, you’re not restricted to the dealers local to you. Online dealers like Carvana, TrueCar and Vroom provide access to a national inventory of used cars. You can search and apply for financing from the comfort of your home If you decide to purchase a car, you get up to a week to test the car before you buy it . 7. Negotiate Negotiation may be intimidating but finding the most favorable deal comes from being a strong advocate for yourself. Be prepared with all the paperwork required, a clear knowledge of your credit history and to ask. But the most important thing to remember is: be ready to leave if you don’t secure the loan you want. If the time is right to close the deal remain steadfast on the agreed-upon number. You can expect the dealer to insist on . Say no to options like paint protection or fabric, while an extra option such as gap insurance could be more appropriate. Next steps in negotiation can be daunting, but getting the best deal boils in the form of taking a stand for yourself. Come prepared with any paperwork required, as well as a thorough understanding of your credit score and be prepared to inquire. Be focused on the purchase price, not the monthly payment. And be prepared to walk away if don’t get the deal that you deserve. If it’s time to close the deal, keep your stance on the finalized number. It is possible for the dealer to insist on . Say no to options like paint protection or fabric while an extra option such as gap insurance may be more beneficial. Find out more

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This article is written by Auto Loans Reporter Rebecca Betterton is the auto loans reporter for Bankrate. She specializes in assisting readers in navigating the ways and pitfalls of borrowing money to buy cars. Written by Rhys Subitch Edited by Auto loans editor Rhys has been writing and editing for Bankrate from late 2021. They are passionate about helping readers gain confidence to control their finances by providing precise, well-researched and well-researched details that cut complex subjects into bite-sized pieces.

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