Hunting for your next vehicle can time time. You have many cars to choose from, and there are many things to consider. With sound advice and reliable information, the process will be much less painful. Use this handpicked selection of car-buying tips and tricks to help you along the way.

Get your car loan online before you even walk into a dealership. Getting a car from a dealership takes a long time because your dealer needs to find you a loan. If you have pre-qualified for a loan, this process will be much faster.

Take care of financing before you get to the dealer. You can do this through your local credit union or bank. You will more than likely get a lower interest rate than what the dealership would offer and have a better idea of how much money you can spend on your new car.

Prior to getting a used vehicle from a dealership, be sure to ask a third party mechanic to look at it. When a dealership refuses, they are usually hiding something. You want someone who has an impartial opinion and is doing things in your best interest.

When buying privately, always bring along a mechanic. If the owners will not allow you to do this, consider it a red flag. There may be extensive problems the owner is trying to hide. You should not buy it without knowing more.

If you are looking for a new car, you need to find one that is safe. ABS or anti-lock brakes are very important. Also, ensure that the vehicle has ample airbags. Safety is important, since you will be traveling in this vehicle alot.

Speak with your bank regarding loans before you head out to purchase a new car. This is for your own safety. You’ll know how much you’ll be charged at the bank, allowing you to better negotiate with the dealer for financing.

Don’t drive an expensive car to the dealership. The dealer will take one look at your vehicle and refuse to work with you on negotiating a lower price. The only time this is a good idea is if you are planning to trade in such a vehicle.

Get the cost on the car in stone before you discuss trade-ins, or any other monetary exchanges. These options should be subtracted from the lowest negotiated price. You will probably get a much better price if you start by negotiating and then mention these additional discounts.

Consider shopping for your new car towards the last week of the month. Most car dealers have quotas for their salespeople that they are trying to meet at this time. You will probably find salespeople who need to meet their quotas before the last day of the month and will offer you some good deals to sell you a vehicle.

Find out whether there are any upcoming car shows nearby. This is an excellent opportunity to explore your options. Auto shows are a unique opportunity to compare many different makes side-by-side under one roof. This also gives you the opportunity to talk to knowledgeable folks. You’ll know which models peak your interest, afterwards.

Call the lot to see if they have the model you desire in stock. Whether you want a car or not, just going there may get you sucked into a car you’re not really sure of. But, if your heart is set on a particular car that they do not currently have on-site, you do not need to waste your time. It takes only a few minutes to call in advance.

Dealers and salespeople are different. While car salespeople have a reputation for being pushy, this sales method is losing ground. Many dealerships are now using a gentler approach in order to entice repeat business. If you come across an aggressive salesman, walk away. Other, more reasonable, salespeople would be thrilled to help you.

When car shopping, good information marks the difference between success and failure. Ensure your happiness and satisfaction with your next vehicle by applying the tips from this article. You’ll be sure to come out happy.