New car bargains two weeks away?

Question: When is the best time to buy a new car?

Answer: Whenever car sales begin to slow down.

That answer isn’t entirely accurate because on occasion other factors weigh in such as end of month deal-making in a bid to meet sales thresholds and similar year end deals. Still, if you’re shopping for a new car, Memorial Day weekend may prove worth waiting for because new car sales for the month of May are trailing analyst projections.

Big Savings

That could mean that a new car deal is just waiting for you. That is, if you can wait.

According to Edmunds.com, car shoppers traditionally hold off buying a car until Memorial Day weekend, anticipating that the best deals can be had during that time. They may be right because annualized sales figures are trending down which means car manufacturers will do what it takes to jump start sales in the form of deep incentives.

“Over the past week we’ve seen a notable uptick in the online activity linked to purchase intent,” explained Edmunds.com CEO Jeremy Anwyl. “Given the bargain-hunting behavior we’ve witnessed throughout the recession, I’m guessing that demand is building for anticipated Memorial Day sales events.”

Lower Incentives

Incentives for the month are lower than they were for April which could mean that automakers are saving their best deals for the last few days of the month. Edmunds explains that relying on sales alone may not bring about the best savings for car shoppers, but rather performing extensive research on available incentives may prove to be beneficial.

Edmunds is among several web sites offering researchable information about car prices as does KBB.com, TrueCar.com and ConsumerReports.org, links we have supplied in the text box included with this story.

Driving back and forth to work can consume a lot of time as well as gasoline. In 2008, as gas prices began to top $4 gallon, motorists learned that “pain at the pump” had taken on a personal meaning. Some drivers were paying $100 just to fill up their vehicles, forcing them to look for alternative ways to get to work or downsize to a smaller vehicle.

Though gas prices have retreated significantly since that time, America’s appetite for smaller and more fuel efficient cars has continued to grow. A number of manufacturers are releasing all new models this year in response to customer demand with the Ford Fiesta subcompact and compact Chevy Cruze hitting showrooms before spring shifts to summer.

AAA, formerly known as the American Automobile Association, says that the average commuting driver spends 41 minutes daily behind the wheel which translates into an average commute of 22.5 miles. Some drivers have much longer commutes of one to two hours each way. In either case, a lot of fuel can be consumed on a daily, weekly, monthly and annual basis.

AAA also assembled its team of auto buying experts to survey current commuter car offerings basing their finds on a vehicle’s practicality, safety, comfort, fuel efficiency and affordability. But be forewarned as there are several surprise entries on the list, several vehicles that are expensive though fuel efficient.

Honda Insight: This car is among the ultimate in gasoline fuel economy while being reasonably comfortable for the driver and front-seat passenger. It’s also less costly and more fun to drive than some of its hybrid competitors.

Ford Fusion: Four-cylinder versions offer an appealing combination of power, riding comfort and handling competence. The Hybrid offers even more economy, but the fuel savings come with a major bump in the purchase price.

Volkswagen Jetta TDI: Everything that you ever hated about diesels has been exorcised in this latest version of the Volkswagen diesel engine. It is quiet, with just a trace of diesel clatter at idle; peppy, especially when underway; and every bit as economical as the most miserly hybrids. It also is great fun to drive. Comfortable front seats are a plus.

Hyundai Elantra: The new Blue edition is good for 35 miles per gallon. This fourth generation Elantra also is reasonably accommodating for a driver and three passengers with the interior nicely done. The 10-year/100,000-mile warranty suggests that you could keep this car in the daily commuting grind for years.

Subaru Legacy/Outback: These new models with their horizontally opposed 4-cylinder engines perform very well, and with their redesign for 2010, they now offer much better fuel economy and enhanced rear seat leg room. And for commuters facing snowy rides to work, the all-wheel drive helps ensure they will make it to work every time.

Honda Civic: Affordable, dependable, economical and comfortable, the Civic is one of the better performing compacts for a wide range of uses, including commuting. For drivers who want to enjoy the trip even more, the 197 horsepower Si sedan deserves a careful look.

Chevrolet Malibu: Stylish inside and out, the Malibu also is a competent performer on the road. Four-cylinder models offer more than enough power for the daily commute and promise decent fuel economy. The passenger cabin is nicely finished and roomy, both in the front and rear, making it a good choice for carpooling.

Honda Accord: Good for the commute and good for family transportation, the Accord is roomy, solid and economical when equipped with the four-cylinder engine. It also offers road manners that are beyond reproach.

Mazda3: The body for 2010 may not be to everyone’s taste, but there is no arguing with its crisp handling and above average power for the compact field. Fuel economy also is good. The ride can be a little flinty, so commuters facing long stretches of neglected urban highways may want to look elsewhere. However, for people who enjoy driving, the handling will more than make up for a few abrupt ride motions.

Commuters Vehicles Offering Efficiency and More

Practicality is an important factor that many commuters look for when seeking the ideal vehicle for long commutes. However, AAA Auto Buying experts understand that some want a vehicle that can serve dual purposes such as an efficient commuter vehicle that addresses needs for family or recreation or desires for luxury or fun. Because of this, AAA offers their picks for vehicles that can help address consumers’ secondary needs while still providing a smart choice for long commutes.

Mini Cooper: A premium subcompact, the Mini is both sporty and economical with fuel. Few cars are as much fun to drive. Commuters will be able to take one passenger only and the purchase price is higher than you might expect, based on size alone. However, few cars are as enjoyable on the road or offer as many safety features. Commuters might even choose to take the long way home.

Chevrolet Corvette: Who says the drive to work has to be boring? The Corvette is anything but, and when driven appropriately, it can even return near-compact car fuel economy of around 26 mpg on the highway.

Buick Enclave: Handling the commute for up to eight people, the Enclave combines an exceptionally quiet ride with competent handling and surprising room in all three rows. It makes for a smart choice for those seeking a large family vehicle on the weekends.

Mercedes-Benz GL: Roomy seating for seven, excelled refinement, all-wheel drive and the option of a surprisingly economical (for the vehicle size) diesel engine make this a highly desirable commuter for multi-adult carpools.

Volkswagen GTI: Sporty, fun to drive and able to return mid- to upper-20 mile per gallon fuel economy results with the 200-hp turbocharged engine, the GTI is full of surprises. Even the rear seat is good for two adults and the cargo area is surprisingly roomy. Four workers can easily store large laptop carrying briefcases in the rear and then be quite comfortable for the ride to and from work.

BMW 3-Series: The first sports sedan remains the best by many measures. What more enjoyable way to get to work and then return home? The engines are impressive for their power and refinement, the handling is top notch and the build quality is excellent, as would be expected for the price.

Were you surprised as I was to find the Corvette, Mercedes and BMW on the list? Well, look at it this way: not everyone wants to drive an econobox, preferring a sportscar or luxury model instead.

Source: AAA

Adv. – If you’re planning to buy a new car, then you’ll want to get price quotes or find a dealer to arrange for a test drive. You may also want to arrange for your own auto financing which can save you hundreds of dollars on your next car loan.

My federal and state taxes are done and filed, completed weeks earlier than they were last year. I set out to do my taxes early, but I still had to wait on some forms and verify other information before I could complete my work.

Lots of people wait until the final weeks before doing their taxes and that isn’t a bad thing especially if you owe. Why give the government money sooner than you have to?

I did notice some important changes for the 2009 tax year which showed up in my tax preparation software program. Whether you rely on H&R Block’s software, TurboTax, or some other tax program you should be on the look out for certain money saving deductions including the following:

Helping Haiti – Although the earthquake happened during the 2010 tax year, Congress has decided to allow Americans to declare their donations as a 2009 deduction. But your chance to donate and receive a deduction ended on February 28 so any deductions made from here on this year will need to be declared with your 2010 tax filing. (see IRS.gov: Haiti Relief Donations Qualify for Immediate Tax Relief)

Tax Free Unemployment – You pay unemployment insurance yet the federal government still taxes you for taking this benefit. What is the sense in that?! For 2009 and for 2009 only, the first $2400 of that is tax-free. If you and your spouse collected, then you can exclude $4800. (see The Wall Street Journal: Deducting Job Hunting Expenses)

Your New Home – Congress played around with a tax deduction for new home buyers last year, offering an $8000 tax credit for most of the year before amending the law later to include a $6500 tax credit for other buyers who bought a house after November 6, 2009. Confused yet? Wait, there is more! You may still be able to take the deduction on your 2009 returns even if you haven’t signed a contract yet (April 30 is the deadline), giving you until June 30 to close. Yes, you’ll have to file an extension or an amended return to benefit now, but it could save you a bundle of money later on. (see Kiplinger: FAQs on the New Home Buyer Tax Credits)

Home Energy Improvements – Making home improvements has never been so profitable! Well, at least deductible. Under the federal stimulus plan, various incentives were put in place to help homeowners update their abodes. We covered this information in detail last month so check out the link which follows for details. (see SayEducate.com: Enjoy Tax Credits For Energy Conservation)

Your New Car – Eager to stimulate the auto industry—after all the federal government now owns significant chunks of General Motors and Chrysler—you can deduct the state sales tax if your purchase took place on February 16 or later for a car costing as much as $49,500. That trade-in for last summer’s cash for clunkers program can also be deducted. (see Intuit.com: Deduct the Sales Tax Paid on a New Car)

These are only a sampling of what you should look out for when you prepare your 2009 taxes. Certain deductions such as those for investment losses, college tuition, moving, and disaster recovery may also apply. Check the IRS site for more information to confirm what is available to you.

The Volt will show up in Chevrolet showrooms by the end of this year, but maybe the Cruze will offer what you want in a new car.

Consumers are buying, but in much lower numbers than when the last decade began when 17 million units were sold. This year, Edmunds.com has projected sales to increase above 11.5 million units with some analysts forecasting an even higher increase. No matter, car manufacturers want your business which means that the deals are still good, quality is constantly improving, and your options are bright.

Let’s take a look at 7 car buying tips for consumers this year:

1. Discounting Continues – You won’t see the discounts of early Spring 2009 when dealers were dropping new car prices by $5-10K on select slow selling models. But you will still be able to find discounts on most models or receive cut rate financing. As always, try to come up with the best financing deal elsewhere and take the manufacturer’s rebate if you are given that choice.

2. Orphans Aplenty – Pontiac and Saturn are being pushed into the history books, but many 2009 models remain unsold. Dealers are snapping these cars up and are reselling them to consumers for ultra low prices. But be forewarned: their resale values will stink and these discounts may not match what these cars are really worth. Still, if you plan on buying an orphan and keeping it until it dies, then this could be a good opportunity for you. Parts and service or warranty shouldn’t be a problem either.

3. Leftover Models – 2009 cars still on dealer lots should fetch a good deal, but you will find the best deal for cars which have made a generational shift. For example, the 2009 Ford Taurus is completely different from the 2010 Taurus, which means that if a dealer still has an ’09 languishing on its lot, then make an offer that cannot be refused. The Buick LaCrosse, Subaru Legacy, and Mercedes E Class are among the models which are all new for 2010. Ask yourself this: can you live with an aged 2009 design?

4. Chrysler Controversy – While GM appears on the mend, Chrysler may be a different matter. The automaker is ailing, with quality issues, and not offering much of substance beyond its Dodge Ram line. You can probably get a great buy on any Chrysler PT Cruiser and save money on the Dodge Avenger, but these cars are substantially below par. Call it Chrysler bashing if you want, but today’s new car buyers have to look at how things will be 4-5 years out, particularly a vehicle’s resale value.

5. Check Credit – If you are planning to finance your purchase either through a car loan or lease, your credit rating will make a big difference as to whether you will be approved for a loan and at what interest rate. Obtain free copies of your three credit reports at AnnualCreditReport.com and pay the small fee to get your credit score. Review your reports and correct errors as these mistakes can lower your credit score.

6. Wait/See – If you can wait until this summer, a number of electric cars will begin to show up on the market. They’ll be pricey, but they’ll also carry significant government rebates with them, green cars such as the Nissan Leaf and Chevy Volt. Then again, maybe paying $40K before rebate is a bit hard to swallow, which means that the Chevy Cruze and Ford Fiesta may be a satisfactory and affordable compromise for you.

7. Sell It – If you plan on trading in your car, do so only after you negotiate the best deal for your new ride first. Still, you will not get top dollar for your trade, which means that you should visit Kelley Blue Book to get a fair market price for your car, selling it on your own. Consider donating your car to a car charity as these organizations, which do much good, were hammered by last year’s CARS—Cash For Clunkers—program.

There is nothing better than the look, feel, and smell of a new ride. So do your research first and operate from a position of strength. Buy only what you can afford and consider holding off your next new car purchase until you find the right deal for you.

Adv. – If you’re planning to buy a new car, then you’ll want to get price quotes or find a dealer to arrange for a test drive. You may also want to arrange for your own auto financing which can save you hundreds of dollars on your next car loan.

Photo Credit: GM Corp.

On the day after Thanksgiving most Americans have two choices facing them: sleep in or head out for Black Friday savings. Yes, many workers are able to enjoy a four-day weekend which means that Friday is a day off. That also means if you choose to rise ‘n shine early and head out to the mall, you could enjoy some unusual savings if you shop carefully.

To be sure, there isn’t anything black about the Friday following Thanksgiving. It used to be the day when retailers saw their first profits of the year, as balance sheets moved from red (losses) to black (profits) on that day. Though still an important retailing event, merchants no longer expect Thanksgiving weekend alone to bring in the profits as seasonal sales help them reach that goal.

Christmas Shopping

In any case, Black Friday is still a day of significance for consumers as it is a good opportunity to do some Christmas shopping. In a bid to lure you in, merchants offer some of the best deals of the season, savings that can be had if you’re willing to get in when stores open which can be as early as 5 a.m.

But as you head out to the mall on Friday there are some things you should know: not everything is tagged at the absolutely lowest price nor are there always generous quantities of goods available. Thus, you’ll want to keep the following in mind:

Limited Quantities – A special item, such as a popular CD or video game may be available in limited quantities such as 200 per store. Moreover, the retailer could limit the number of purchases to two each, which means that you’ll need to think of other gift ideas for people on your list. Lastly, if you get to the store several hours later, inventory may be depleted.

Limited Time – Doorbuster sales are typically offered on Black Friday. What this means is that prices on select items are reduced for only a few hours before the sale ends. If your favorite store opens at 6 a.m., then the sale could be over by noon. The item you want may still be available, but perhaps at a much higher price.

Online Deals – A recent trend noted by some is where retailers say that certain in store deals are also available online through their website. But there may be a catch: not every doorbuster deal is featured online and you may have to wait until the retailer’s brick and mortar store is open before you can log on and find out. If it isn’t featured online, then you may have to scramble to throw on your clothes and head to the mall, but by then it could be too late.

Rain Checks – If the store’s sale policy is a favorable one, then they may offer a rain check to you on whatever items have sold out. This means that you may be able to get that item later at the Black Friday low price when it ships again. Be careful: some products take weeks to ship or your retailer may not be able to get the item back again. Too late for Christmas and you’ll be forced to find something else.

New Car

Not every Black Friday deal is a dud, but you need to read the fine print to see what restrictions apply and plan accordingly. Of course, if you’re the type of person who hates shopping at the mall on Thanksgiving weekend, take heart: the best day of the year to buy a new car is on Black Friday.

Photo Credit: Jay Lopez

Adv. — Whether you head out to the mall for Black Friday savings or shop online from the comfort (and warmth) of your home, a shopping list can help you keep everything organized. Download your free copy today from NBuy Plaza, home of more than 5,000 online merchants!

If you are in the market for purchasing a new vehicle, one part of the decision making process is how you will pay for your purchase. If you have enough money for a cash payment, then you are in a position to leverage the best possible deal.

Moreover, if brand loyalty isn’t a big consideration, then your options are greatly expanded. Consider the following points when shopping for your next car:

Seasonal Deals – As the old model year comes to an end, new models begin to show up in dealer showrooms. But there is a problem: many dealer lots are filled with older “new” cars and they are eager to move them. Some of the best new car deals come during the months of September and October as rebates totaling thousands of dollars are made available.

However, you don’t have to settle for those rebates alone as manufacturers offer incentives to dealers to move inventory. Research online to find out what they’re getting because you want a piece of that action!

Model Ending Deals – If a particular brand is discontinuing a model or replacing that vehicle with a newer version, then big deals on the discontinued model should be available to you. In this case, you are in the driver’s seat as most consumers prefer to buy the latest model. If you don’t mind an older version then go for that model as it will offer the biggest savings.

Zero Percent Lending – Which should you choose: the zero percent loan or the big cash rebate? If you are paying cash it would be in your best interest to simply finance the purchase and bank the money. In effect the auto lender will be giving you thousands of dollars in interest money for your choice. If you lack a sizable down payment, seeking independent financing at a low rate and taking the cash credit is a good way to go too.

Slow Movers – Several manufacturers are desperately trying to get back on track following record losses, sales declines and potential bankruptcy. And they’re eager to do a deal! Just make sure that you come away with a car that you really want as some of the deals being offered are on models that have a low resale value.

Yes, you most certainly can save money on a new car. Do your homework, shop around and compare offers. The current state of the economy has revealed that we’re in an unusual buyer’s market, one that may not last beyond the end of the recession.

Adv. – How about a card you need that fits your financial objectives? Whether you are a savvy consumer or first-time user, there is a credit card that will meet your buying-power needs. Please visit nBuy.com to conduct your smart credit card search.

My family isn’t planning to buy a new car in 2009 as we have decided to keep a pair of aging cars on the road for at least the next few years. It is far cheaper for us to maintain what we have, but as our children grow we’ll need to find something roomier by then.

Over the past few months, the global auto industry has been seeing a precipitous sales decline and at rates not seen for over twenty-five years. Adjusted for an increase in population, January 2009 sales numbers rank among the worst ever.

Auto Sales Stink = You Win

Whereas the industry as a whole is suffering mightily, consumers who are in the market for a new car stand to do quite well if they decide to buy right now. At some point the discounts won’t be as good as they are today, making 2009 a good year to consider purchasing a new car.

Of course, if you can pay cash for your purchase you stand to come away with the best deal out there. Cash purchases allow buyers to negotiate the lowest price without having to consider financing or a trade in. Oftentimes, these types of buyers are able to negotiate a price that is well below sticker price, even below dealer invoice.

For people who need to finance their new car purchase, there are some things to keep in mind before you begin car shopping including:

What are your financing options? Find out what your credit score is before you shop — the higher your credit score, the more likely you’ll be approved for an auto loan and with favorable loan terms (e.g., lower interest rate).

How much are you putting down? The more money you can put down, the better. Besides not getting stuck with a huge and burdensome monthly payment, if you are able to put more money down than you will be in a better position to negotiate favorable financing terms.

Cash rebate or cut rate financing? These days almost every manufacturer is offering some sort of deal on their vehicles. Besides taking hundreds, even thousands of dollars off of sticker prices, some companies are offering zero or low interest rate financing. Almost always it is better for you to take the cash back and seek financing elsewhere. A few companies, such as Chrysler, offer cash back and low financing. Talk with your banker or credit union representative about loan options before you visit the showroom.

Are you ready to negotiate? Few cars today are sold at sticker price, with most offering some sort of discount. Consumer publications such as Consumer Reports sell information about dealer invoice amounts for specific make/model/trim level cars. You should be able to pay below invoice in most cases as dealers also receive “secret” incentives from manufacturers to help move product.

Savvy shoppers understand that other factors in the car buying process can help them too. Check with your insurance company to get an idea what your costs will be to insure your new vehicle, learn what the projected resale value of your car will be a few years out, and be prepared to get bids from competing dealers to find the best deal out there.

Although we’re currently in the teeth of the recession, the current economic climate will not last forever. When automakers align production with demand and as the recession eases, discounts and special financing offers will shrink and prices will once again increase.

Adv.– Are you considering the purchase of a house or a car during this recession? For consumers who have good or excellent credit, this may be the best time to jump in to the market. You’ll also want to make sure that your emergency income levels are consistent during these times as well as have a good food storage plan in place to keep those costs under control too.

If you are in the market for a new car, then I have some great news for you: prices are being slashed and financing deals are among the best we’ve seen in some time. In fact, you may be able to save thousands on your new car while getting low interest rate financing.

Though most shoppers will pay for their new car purchase by taking out a loan or paying cash, there is a segment of the car buying populace who have figured out a way to buy a new car by using the equity found in their home to pay for it. Instead of dishing out cash or taking out an auto loan, these consumers negotiate the best price for their car and finance the deal for themselves.

Certainly, anytime you borrow money against the value of your home, you are responsible to pay those funds back, just like any other loan. But, in this case, you can deduct the interest from your fixed rate equity loan on your income taxes. Try doing that with your auto loan — you cannot!

Yes, there are certain things you need to keep in mind to make this type of loan smart for you. Otherwise, you risk making the same foolish mistakes that some homeowners have made with credit over the past few years, putting themselves in financial jeopardy.

Among the things to keep in mind are:

Borrow what you need, nothing more. If you have your eyes on a car that will cost you $25,000, then borrow that amount and not a penny more. Avoid the temptation to add in other costs, otherwise your loan will be bigger than what you want it to be.

Keep it short. Certainly you can borrow for ten or fifteen years, but not too many people keep their cars that long. Besides, do you really want to pay interest on a vehicle for that long? Instead, consider a five year loan the length of loan many new car buyers select.

Choose a fixed rate. Avoid any type of loan that can fluctuate. In these challenging times, you don’t want government policy or financial conditions to determine what you have to pay each month. Pay the same amount in month sixty as you’ll pay in the first month and every month in between.

Calculate LTV. What is the value of your home today? LTV is the loan to value of your home, the higher the percentage the better loan rate you’ll be offered. Even if you are allowed to borrow more than what you need for a new car, only do so if you’ll use those monies to fund other projects.

No Restrictions. When choosing a home equity loan, make sure that there are no restrictive clauses for how you can use your money. In addition, you don’t want pre-payment penalties. Why should you be punished for paying off your loan early? You shouldn’t be!

One of the best reasons for allowing your home to finance your new car purchase is that you can claim a tax deduction as per federal and state tax guidelines. Most taxing authorities don’t care what you use your home equity loan money for, that is your business. Consult your financial adviser or tax accountant if you have questions about how this works.

The gloomy news affecting the economy right now can have you believing that absolutely nothing is going right. Even people who have long been accustomed to saying that the glass is half full are rephrasing their terminology to the negative glass is half empty expression, falling prey to what they see to be the prevailing sentiment.

Digging through the news you’ll soon learn that housing sales were up for the month of September while new cars sales are still about one million units, demonstrating that people with the means to buy something are taking advantage of lower prices and spectacular deals while they can. Indeed, before the economy does recover, finding a deal on a new car, trucks, minivan, SUV, or crossover vehicle can help you save thousands, but one problem could remain: how do you arrange financing?

Well, the folks at Carmax who happen to be the largest retailers of used cars in the country, have advice for their shoppers as well as for people in the market for new cars. We would all do well to heed the following financing tips, sage advice that can save you time, money, and headaches:

Maintain Good Credit

1. Maintaining a good credit rating is generally a matter of simply paying bills on time.

2. You should also be aware that overextending yourself on credit and actively shopping for credit could have a negative impact.

3. Know your credit history by getting a copy of your credit report. Check your credit report annually to see if any information on the report needs correcting. You can get a free copy of your credit report at www.annualcreditreport.com, You may also contact any of the three nationwide consumer credit reporting companies:

Equifax: 800-685-1111, www.equifax.com

Experian: 888-397-3742, www.experian.com

TransUnion: 800-916-8800, www.transunion.com

Know How Much You Can Afford

1. Determine how much you can afford for your vehicle purchase and monthly payments. Most financial institutions recommend that your monthly car payment not exceed 15% of your gross monthly income.
2. Maximize your down payment to lower your monthly payments and it may improve your offer and likelihood of approval.
3. Calculate how much your trade is worth and how much you owe on it to gain a better understanding of your total purchase. Go to any CarMax superstore for a free appraisal to determine the current value of your vehicle. CarMax will be happy to contact your current finance source for a payoff to help you determine your equity position.

Find a Car Retailer that Offers Competitive Finance Terms

1. Look for a car retailer that offers competitive finance terms without the hassles of negotiation.
2. Make sure the retailer shows you all available finance options. CarMax makes it quick, easy, and convenient to apply for financing and will show customers the details of all offers received so customers can make an informed decision.
3. Only buy a car from a retailer that offers at least a three-day payoff option. If you find a better offer or decide to pay cash after you take the car home, this gives you the option to pay off the financing with no fees or penalties.

Be Prepared at the Car Retailer

1. When shopping for a vehicle, take essential paperwork items with you, including the title and the registration for your current vehicle, your driver’s license and your insurance card.
2. Before signing any paperwork, review all the documents and understand all terms including vehicle price, trade amount, financing, warranties, return policies and fees.
3. Beware of any add-on or hidden costs not previously disclosed or explicitly requested by you.
4. Do not hesitate to ask lots of questions. Be prepared to walk away if you are unhappy with your car-buying experience.

Certainly, preparation is the key ingredient when buying a new car so go into any sales negotiation armed with the information you need to succeed. Creditors may have tightened things up for consumers with average or poor credit, but if your credit is good or excellent, you stand to find the best auto financing deal while saving big bucks on your purchase.

(Source: CarMax)