Step 1 of 5

First:

Select the make and model of vehicle that you want to purchase. Visit several types of dealerships as a fact-finding mission. Select a vehicle that is equipped comparable to one you would buy, and take it for a drive.

As you drive, you will be better able to decide, based upon how the car performs, or its comfort -- not on how it looks.

Ask the salesman for his card, collect all the window sticker information; model number, option packages, freight, and any other available information. Now, you will be more subjective in the negotiation process, and prepared for the next step.