Clark Howard Buying A New Car 【CERTIFIED - TRICKS】

Avoid saying you "love" the car or that your current vehicle is "on its last legs".

: To keep your finances healthy, aim to put 20% down, limit the loan term to 48 months (4 years), and ensure total vehicle expenses stay under 10% of your monthly income. What to Keep to Yourself clark howard buying a new car

: Perform major maintenance at 30,000, 60,000, and 90,000 miles to extend the car's lifespan and prevent expensive breakdowns. Avoid saying you "love" the car or that

Don't mention paying in cash too early, as dealers often make more profit on financing and may be less willing to negotiate the sale price if they know they won't get that kickback. Maintenance & Longevity Don't mention paying in cash too early, as

: Only buy new if you plan to keep the vehicle for at least 10 years. Because new cars depreciate so rapidly in the first few years, keeping them for a decade or more is the only way to make the math work in your favor.

: Do not negotiate based on monthly payments. Instead, focus strictly on the total "out-the-door" price, which includes all taxes and fees, to ensure you aren't overpaying.

: Always line up your financing through a credit union or bank before you ever step onto a dealer's lot. This prevents the dealer from using "monthly payment talk" to hide the true cost of the loan.