I think most people will agree no matter what, you get shortchanged in one way or another when you go and purchase a car. My opinion is: because this is sadly true, you should always aim for a new car. Don’t let the salesperson fool you, just tell him/her, you are interested in a new car only, nothing used. This isn’t to say used cars aren’t good, some are better than new ones, but if you’ve done your research like I have mine; you’ll see oftentimes used cars cost the same as new cars do. So don’t let the salesperson hoodwink you into getting a used car. A relative of mine had this idea in mind, I showed her from listings etc, some used cars cost more than new ones, some even with as much as 20-30, 000 miles on them: I rest my case. I don’t want to mention the dealership where she purchased her Camry at, but she had terrible credit, and still got a pretty good deal. This was in 2005, she purchased a brand new Camry for $16,000, and the used cars next doors where more expensive than hers was, new. One very important thing to remember is: do your research. If your car isn’t paid for, don’t trade it in, instead sell it on the side. Now days, Carmax will buy it from you, this way you don’t need to include your old car with your new purchase, this will make it easier when you do your negotiations with the salesperson etc, and you’ ll avoid hearing that famous quote: « If you didn’t have a trade in; I could have gotten you a much better deal than I didspare me, who needs this.The Internet is excellent for car shopping. I purchased a car as far back a s 1999 on the internet, and it was a great experience for me, so much so: when my relatives have purchased cars, I’ve negotiated the deals for them before we even go in person. When they email you the quote, printed and take it with you to the dealership, this will help you no doubt. Where dealers make a killing at is: interest rates. Even though they discount your car, it’s either one thing or another, this is to say: « We can either give you a good interest rate, or give you a discount and finance you with one of our banks! » What to do? Again research, they will make money no matter what, but the more informed you are, the better. If you have good credit (650 and up), there’s no reason for you to have to pay more than 7-8% interest rate, don’t let the salesperson fool you on this, they are most likely pulling your leg. You should be able to get at least $2000 dollars or so off, and still get around 5% interest rate or so. Also the car manufacturer’s bank will usually give you better finance rate, than a standard bank. For example: if you purchase a Toyota, try to finance it through Toyota-motors, you should get a better interest rate than you would from an outside bank; something most likely the salesperson will try and get you to do. Category:Home › Autos • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 2 • You should never use after-market auto parts when maintaining or fixing your car • Should a new car be rust-proofed? • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 1 • Five safest cars in North America • How to ensure your teen drives safely after getting a license • Pros and cons of using an hydrogen generator for your car • DIY automotive maintenance: How to change the oil