If you are considering buying a car for the first time, you might not know where to begin. Making such a major purchase is most likely the first step in your financial life, so it is very important to take it seriously.
That’s the word from the experts at a national consumer education campaign called AWARE (Americans Well-informed on Automobile Retailing Economics).
To help first-time auto buyers navigate the financing system, it has put together this pop quiz:
-> Do you have a budget? If you don’t already have one, create one. It will help you determine how much car you can afford. Don’t forget vehicle-related costs outside of a new car payment, particularly insurance costs. Premiums for many young drivers can be as much as the monthly car payment. Don’t forget to include maintenance, gas and taxes.
-> Have you pulled your credit report? Your credit history may affect your finance rate, so it’s a good idea to get a copy of your free credit report before heading to the dealer. Go to www.annualcredit report.com for yours.
-> Have you shopped around? Do some homework before you decide which car to buy and where...