how do I buy a car?

Alecia Kaehler: First, take your time shopping for a car, don't rush into a deal that may cost you more than it's worth. Tell them at the dealership you are looking to spend about 5000 on a car (they will always show you something higher priced, but at least you have some room to upgrade), something reliable, comfortable, and good on gas. Once you have it narrowed down to 3 or 4 possibilities, check the "Lemon Aid`` ratings for each vehicle (see site below). Write down the Vehicle Identification Number for each one you`re looking at and check them for liens at your local vehicle registry (you don`t want to buy a car if there is money owing against it). Test drive each vehicle, pay attention and listen for strange sounds and characteristics (eg: does it pull to one side, is it hard to keep straight on the road, does it stop straight or tend to veer to one side, ``banging`` noises from underneath, does the engine sound smooth, ask the sales person for a vehicle inspectio! n report. If possible, have someone with a little more experience go along with you, they can help you avoid making an expensive mistake. DO NOT look for your `dream car`, that will come later, this one is temporary and a means of transportation ONLY, but it needs to work properly while keeping repair costs to a minimum. Check with an insurance company and get quotes on how much each will cost you, anything rated as a `sports model`` will immediately be 40-50% higher.My 20 year old daughter is going through the same thing right now, so I have an idea what you`re going through. Most of all, don`t be scared to ask questions, if they don`t answer you directly, move on to something and someone else. http://www.autotrader.ca/reviews/?gclid=CO6roYfcir...http://www.autos.ca/used-car-reviews/http://www.autoguide.com/?gclid=CPuj-8jcir4CFYtAMg......Show more