1. RESEARCH. Decisions! Decisions! The car you choose will be the most important part of your day-to-day travels. Prepare yourself. The internet is a great resource for starting your new vehicle search. Check out manufacturer, dealership, and independent websites. Carfax, ratings, reviews, blogs, and other Top 10 lists for information and advice. But keep in mind that the web has its limitation. It can’t tell you how YOU will feel when you physically touch and drive the car. There is absolutely no substitution for experiencing the real thing in person.
2. TIME. Give yourself plenty of time on the lot. Start as early in the day as you can. There are a ton of decisions to make and a pile of paperwork to get through. Plus, it’s a lot of your hard-earned money! 
3. EXPLORE. How will you be using your new car? What is most important to you? Size? Economy? Power? Seat count? These factors are as important as color, style, or options. It’s a good idea to consider several options before deciding. It’s the best way to be sure the car you choose can be one you’ll be happy with for years to come.
4. KNOW YOUR BUDGET. Here’s a tip on how to know what you can afford to spend. Try setting aside the estimated monthly amount of your car payment, insurance, and other expenses – $500 is a good starting point – for 6 months. For real. Did you miss the money? Could you still make your other obligations? If you did, congratulations! You can afford your car payment AND you have that cash to add to your down payment.The more money you can put toward your purchase the less you’ll have to borrow, which means shorter loan terms, smaller payments, or both with enough cash.
5. ARRANGE FINANCING. Like the rest of us, you probably can’t just pay cash for a car. It’s a fact of car ownership that most of us live with. One of the benefits of financing your first car? You'll start to build credit if you haven't established any yet, and even if you have, a large loan like a vehicle will help you improve your credit. Each monthly payment MADE ON TIME is important. ON TIME PAYMENTS MATTER!
6. INSURANCE. This is an often overlooked cost for first-time buyers. Rates depend on your age, your driving record, the year, make, and model of your vehicle, and the coverage types and levels you need. Most lenders require full coverage insurance*, so plan on talking to an insurance agent to get an idea of your coverage costs.
7. DRIVE! The all-important test drive! How does it feel driving around town? Out on the freeway? Don’t just play with the stereo! Getting the most from your money and your time depends how well you “fit” your car.
8. DIG IN! Find a quiet spot away from the lot and park. Open all of the doors, the glove box, the hood, and the trunk. Roll all of the windows up and down. Sit in the back seat. Take a look at the engine. Open the sunroof. Put the top up and down. Open the tailgate. NOW you can play with the stereo!
9. ACCESSORIZE! Now that the serious part is done, and you've got your new car, have fun personalizing it with some comfort features. Sound system, trashcan, sunshade, phone holder, custom license plate frames, seat covers. And, of course, those Bigfoot bumperstickers!
10. MAINTENANCE. Learn your regular maintenance schedule for oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, etc. Research reputable shops that provide those services. A well-tuned and maintained vehicle will hold its value better and keep you safe on the road.

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