Your grandmother probably told you first things first. Your teacher or first good boss probably advised you to do your homework thoroughly.
Buying a car is much the same way. Do your homework first. Dont go searching for a car loan even if your credit is bad before you sign on the dotted line. A signature at the bank or credit union or life insurance policy is always too quick. It is you, not the lender or car salesman who is going to have the headache and cost of the vehicle or payment schedule not the salesman, bank clerk or life insurance salesperson.
First of all is it the car you want not one sluffed on you. Remember it is your purchase stand your ground.
If it is a family car dont get pushed into a two door car rather than a more family friendly 4 door. Perhaps even a S.U.V. or a van might be a better choice for a family vehicle. Perhaps even the color is not of your choice or perhaps the color even grates you reminds you of the color of auto that your father always bought and you never liked. There are plenty of fish in the sea and plenty of other cars and similar cars on other car lots or in the classified ads in your local newspapers or even...