tip

New cars actually depreciate by $2000-3000 the minute they are driven off the lot. Once used, though, they depreciate much more slowly. In addition, used cars are generally 20-30% cheaper than new ones. The best bet is to buy a car that is 2-5 years old, since its value will … [Read more...] about Consider buying a used car instead of a new one – the lower cost and slower depreciation can add up to thousands of dollars in savings

Not only do smaller cars generally have cheaper price tags than larger ones, they are also usually more fuel-efficient, which makes gas bills lower, too. Getting 10 miles per gallon (MPG) more out of your vehicle will, on average, save about 2-4 gallons of gas each week. That … [Read more...] about Small cars can save $400-600 per year on gas and insurance alone

Dealers are always looking for ways to make extra profits, so sometimes they offer services that are not car-related, like life or disability insurance. Although it might seem convenient to purchase this type of coverage at the same time as purchasing your car, it is usually … [Read more...] about A car dealer isn’t a life insurance agent

Take the time to research the car you want before visiting the dealership. Know your numbers - the dealer cost, the sticker price, the price of options you are interested in - and then find a salesperson you are comfortable with. If you're intimidated, you won’t negotiate … [Read more...] about Be prepared to negotiate (and possibly negotiate again and again) to secure the best price on a car

Think carefully about why you want a new car, and assess whether it is something you need (i.e. additions to the family) or just something you think might be fun. In the exception of situations like the driver who puts an extreme number of miles on a car - and who, therefore, … [Read more...] about Rethink the urge to buy a new car if your current one is running well & meeting your needs