While you may have your heart set on a specific car, you won't be able to take it home unless you can afford it. A good rule of thumb is to spend no more than 25 percent of your monthly household income for all the cars in your household. And this figure should include not only monthly car loan payments but all other vehicle costs, including fuel and car insurance.

2. Decide: New, certified pre-owned or used? Buy or lease?

You'll be able to get the most car for your money if you buy used, though you'll pay a higher interest rate, have a shorter warranty period and won't know the car's full history. If you lease, you might get a more upscale car for your dollars, but then you won't own the car outright and will need to be careful about the lease terms to avoid hefty penalties. A new car for the same amount of money would have fewer features, but you'll also have a full warranty and pay a lower interest rate, and often you'll get free maintenance and roadside assistance.

For many, a certified pre-owned car is the ideal compromise, since these vehicles are cheaper than new cars, but they usually have some warranty left and must meet certain criteria to help ensure their reliability and condition.

3. Narrow your choices to a few cars

Start by researching the cars that have caught your eye to see if they fit your budget. Visit automaker websites and independent automotive information sites to assess the features that are important to you.

4. Take Your Time With The Test Drive

Since most car shoppers these days keep their cars for five years or more, take your time with the test drive to make sure you really love the car. Don't hesitate to ask for more time behind the wheel to ensure you like the driving experience, and spend time in the car while it's parked to adjust the seats, experiment with the controls and determine whether passengers would be comfortable and your regular cargo would fit well.

Source Motors, Inc

18353 Mt. Langley St.

Fountain Valley, Ca 92708

949-722-4500

http://www.sourcemotors.com/