New, Used or Leased Vehicles, How to Save Money

With the continued rising costs of all of our needs we have to seek methods in which we all can save a few dollars. We still have to live, work, eat and pay rent and taxes, however I want to save as much money as possible on everything that we do. So last year when I went looking for a new car, mine was 12 years old I did some heavy research before purchasing that vehicle. I intend on keeping this one for another 12 years before I purchase another one. Hope these tips help.

New Cars. Save thousands of dollars over the lifetime of a car by selecting a model that combines a low purchase price with low depreciation, insurance, gasoline, maintenance, and repair costs. You can research your new car prices off of the internet or contact your local librarian for car information. When I purchased my Tuscon, I went on line to the local dealerships I found what I wanted and it was with a dealership that was located in Frederick MD. I live in Baltimore, so I printed the internet information and took it to Antwerpen Hyundai, in Baltimore and showed them the price that was being offered for the same vehicle in Frederick that they had on their lot for $7500 more.

They honored the price from Frederick and I got my brand new 2006 Tuscon, along with my Credit Union Discount on the road including moon roof, all amenities, and taxes for under $16,000.00, it was $7,500 under the sticker price.

I went in prepared, I had the Kelley Blue Book value of my car that I was trading in, so I knew the price that I expected. I also knew that Hyundai was offering a $2000.00 rebate that I received. I ended up financing under $12,000.00 for a $24,675.00 car. Do your research and don't be afraid to tell the dealer that you are seeking the best price available and will not accept anything less. If necessary tell them thank you so much and leave, I can guarantee you that you will be getting a telephone call within the next day or so telling you that they will meet your price.

Used Cars: When my son was young there was no way that we were purchasing a brand new car for him. He was seventeen and we purchased a reliable used car because he was a teenager. He wanted a sports car we settled on a Sunfire. We compared the seller's asking price with the average retail price in the Kelley bluebook. There are alternatives to the Kelley blue book, guides are available at libraries, banks and credit unions, don't hesitate to ask. Assure that you have a mechanic you trust check the car, especially if the car is sold "as is." Consider purchasing a used car from an individual you know and trust. They are more likely than other sellers to charge a lower price and
point out any problems with the car.

Auto Leasing, this is an option some people choose because the payments are lower than on a traditional auto loan. As with any lease you don't own anything, consider this as a last resort to obtaining transportation. You are limited in the miles that you put on the car, if you exceed the mileage you may be subject to additional charges and in the end you have been paying all this money and you have nothing to show for it.