Outsmart the Lot

What do you need help with?

Free car buying help. Pick where you are, and get three clear steps.

01Choose where you are
02Follow three clear steps
03Use the right tools

Where are you right now?

Pick the closest match
Getting ready to shopSet your budget, check the car, then get the dealer's price in writing.See stepsAt the dealershipFind words to use when a salesperson pressures you or changes the deal.See stepsReviewing an offerFind hidden fees and check the price and financing before you sign.See stepsAlready bought or leasedFix a problem, track promises, and meet deadlines after you sign.See steps

Example path

What you'll do in this path

  1. Step 01Set your spending limit
  2. Step 02Choose and check a car
  3. Step 03Ask the dealer for a written offer

Full guides by type of deal

Pick the guide for your deal. You might need more than one, like a used car with a trade-in and a loan.

  1. Buying a new car

    Get an itemized price in writing, compare financing, and turn down add-ons you don't want before you sign.

    Open guide

  2. Buying a used car from a dealer

    Check the VIN, title history, open recalls, and the car's condition before you agree to a price.

    Open guide

  3. Leasing a car

    Check the full lease math, mileage limit, and end-of-lease fees, and compare it with buying over the same months.

    Open guide

  4. Buying from a private seller

    Confirm the seller owns the car and the VIN matches the title. Then plan inspection, insurance, payment, and transfer.

    Open guide

  5. Bad credit or owe more than your car is worth

    Compare written loan offers, and see whether and how any old loan balance would be added to the new deal.

    Open guide

  6. Not sure whether to buy new, used, or lease

    Compare two options side by side using your budget, driving, how long you'll keep the car, insurance, and written costs.

    Open guide

Waiting for the right time to buy? See what matters more than the date

Car-deal rules and fees depend on your state. Check your state motor-vehicle or consumer-protection agency and your written agreement.