New cars are nice, but think carefully about whether you can afford large monthly payments. USAA recommends that a person uncomfortable with the technical jargon of repairs should seriously consider buying a new car. However, if a new car is simply beyond your means, don't be too disappointed. Today there are certified pre-owned vehicle programs in which the manufacturer does extensive testing on its used cars and extends their warranties for thousands of miles. After deciding whether to buy a new or used vehicle, USAA recommends researching the market for prices and features.
Auto shows are a wonderful way to see a variety of cars without pressure from salespeople.
Also, investigate the variety of options available, from a leather interior to different engine sizes for the same car. And as far as used cars go, USAA recommends having your mechanic do a once-over on the vehicle to check for things like collision damage, signs of welding repairs, and even the actual mileage. When you've finished your research, it's time to close the deal. However, you might get a better deal if you buy during December when dealers are anxious to increase sales for the year. It will take some time for you and the dealer to agree on a price.