There is no denying that buying a car can feel like an extremely stressful process. Given the multitude of choices and financing terms available, it is no wonder many folks get discouraged. Take some of the stress out of your car shopping by considering the advice offered below.

Your wants and needs must be defined before buying a car. How much can you afford to spend? How much room do you need for passengers in the car? What are you looking for in gas mileage? Do you want a two-door car or a four-door car? You should make a list of all the features you are looking for, and bring it with you when you go shopping for a new car.

Prior to purchasing a used car, arrange to have an impartial mechanic check it out. If the dealer vetoes this, veto them. To the untrained eye, it’s almost impossible to determine whether a vehicle has been damaged in a flood, wreck or fire. A mechanic can identify these and other issues before you agree to buy the car.

Safety features are a must when car shopping. This includes a great braking system. Airbags are also crucial, and your vehicle can never have too many. You’re going to be spending lots of time inside this vehicle, so be sure that it is safe.

MPG plays a huge role in a car purchase. As an example, you may want to buy a car with enough power to tow a boat behind it. However, you should think about how much you will truly use that extra power.

Most salespeople have monthly quotas they need to meet. Use this against them by shopping at month end. Salespeople that want to make the sale want to sell you that car! You might get a better deal this way.

Test out specific makes and models by renting them. Thinking of it as a longer test drive is good when renting a car to get a feel for the purchase. Go on a trip in that car with your family to decide if it fits you well. This can help you feel less stressed when purchasing the car.

Try planning car shopping trips near the end of a month. At the end of the month, dealership salesmen are usually trying to fill unmet quotas. The sales staff may be behind and need your sale to meet their goals.

Visit an auto show so you can more easily determine which types of vehicles would suit your needs. Auto shows are great places to compare different cars to each other. You will also get the opportunity to talk to a lot of car experts all in the same place. You’ll be able to leave the show with a much better idea of what you are looking for.

Social Security

Don’t give out a social security number too quickly; be cautious. Many dealers will ask for your social security number before negotiations even start. They will use this information to pull a credit report. Having your credit checked for no reason can hurt you when it comes to getting financing. Only give your number to the company you want to finance your purchase.

Ask to bring in your own mechanic. The mechanic you’re cool with should be fairly trustworthy. You should not use one that the dealer employs. The mechanic should be able to tell you whether the car is road worthy and if it is a good deal for the money you will pay.

With everything you’ve learned here, you can have a better time choosing your next vehicle. Have these tips in your mind when you go car shopping. You will be able to find the car that makes you happy as well as the financing options to meet your needs.