Car buying, both new and used, can be an incredibly stressful situation for all parties involved. No matter what you pay, you're getting "ripped off", at least that's how the car industry makes most people feel. It doesn't have to be that way though!

Buying a new car is usually done as a status symbol. Buying a used car, even a year or two old, is a sensible buying option. If you are a consumer that enjoys driving the most up to date vehicles, a leasing option is probably more well fit. If you're just trying to get into a quality car that will last until the wheels fall off, try getting used. As soon as a new vehicle drives off the lot, it lessens in value. For this reason, buying used will save you thousands of dollars. Allowing a car to be in the market for a few years before you buy also gives you the advantage of picking out the real trouble-makers. Many consumers bought new Chevrolet Cobalts and Pontiac G6s as soon as they hit the market and are having trouble getting out from under them now because they are incredibly unhappy with them! Buying used can help you avoid buying a troublesome vehicle. 

So here are a few things to help guide you through the car buying process.

Know the market  

The market is constantly changing, so you should be aware of the market value of the vehicles that you are looking at. In the winter, SUV and trucks will be worth more. During periods with high gas prices, SUVs and trucks will be worth less. There are many site that can help you determine the market value of the vehicles you are interested in. The best of which is probably Edmunds.com. 

Know your Dealer 

Either via word of mouth, or websites such as DealerRater.com, seek truth about dealerships outside of their media advertisements. Ask friends and family about their experience with dealerships, or look up local dealerships online to see what previous customers had to say. 

Know the right questions 

One of the most important things to ask about when buying a car (used) is the vehicle history. CarFax.com and AutoCheck.com offer very reliable and trustworthy reports that will inform you of any damage or major repairs done to the vehicle. When buying new or used you should always inquire about warranty options as well. Some dealerships sell vehicles WITH warranties already  (4 yr/45k miles for example). Other dealerships can offer you extended warranties to go along with your used car.

Know your Trade  

Just as you looked up the market value of the vehicles you were interested in buying, you should also research the value of your own vehicle that you're interested in trading-in. Edmunds.com is helpful tool for determining the value. Trade-in values will be lower than retail values because the vehicle will be reconditioned by the dealer before being offered for sale. This is not a trick of any sort, so don't think that you are being hassled when the price they offer you is lower than retail prices in your area.  

Don't be nervous as you set out to buy a new/used cars! If you ever feel pressured or think that there is something odd going on, it's your right to leave the dealership. Don't ever sign the line if you're not entirely comfortable with the deal or the car. Take the car for several test drives, including day and night. A test drive in different weather conditions is also recommended. Check the treads on the tires and don't be afraid to ask a used car dealer to fix a few things (a light scratch, broken piece of plastic, etc), most of the time they will be happy to fix it for you! Franchised dealerships are no better than independent dealerships, either. In fact, independent/smaller dealerships often give less of a run-around when it comes to settling a price. Franchised dealerships may have a bigger reputation, but it's not always a GOOD reputation! Also, try bringing along a friend that won't get caught up in the adrenaline of buying a car. Make sure it is some one that you can trust, that can help you back away from an uncomfortable situation.

Good luck on your next vehicle purchase!