If you have a choice between dealers for the same car, ask friends about their repair experiences with each dealership. A good service department provides peace of mind. Each major manufacturer used the index to rate its franchise holders. The results are used privately to encourage dealers to improve service. Consider options and accessories carefully.
Buyers have less flexibility in choosing options than in the past.
Still, where possible, compare the cost of buying options alone to buying them packaged with others you don't want. They may cost a lot less there. Choose the highest monthly payment you can afford. That keeps the total finance charge as low as possible. Below-market interest rates are especially misleading.