Step 3 - Finding The Right Vehicle

One of the best resources for new and used vehicle information.  Edmunds.com offers vehicle reviews, vehicle searches based on lots of criteria, and market pricing.

Edmunds.com

Kelly Blue Book started as a used vehicle pricing tool, but it has grown to offer many of the same features as edmunds.com.

KBB.com

Good place to search used vehicle listings.  Carfax.com offers pricing comparisons and vehicle history reports (accident and service history).  I would never personally pay for a carfax history report, almost every dealership is happy to provide one to you for no charge.

Carfax.com

Visit a dealership, sit in the cars, check them out and really see if they fit your needs.  Yes, a salesperson will approach you.  But, if you politely let them know you are not ready to purchase, most are happy to give you some space.

Most manufacturer's websites have a Build A Vehicle section.  This is very helpful to find out what options you can get, how much they cost, and what package you might have to take to get that option.  They are also a great resource to find out what incentives are available.

Buying services are a great way to purchase a vehicle.  There is a good chance you already belong to a buying service that can help you get a decent deal.  Costco, AAA, and Manufacturer's Friends and Family programs have set discounts to help you get a descent vehicle price.  Check with your employer or charitable organizations to see if they have a vehicle buying program.  (Beware: although some of these help with vehicle prices, they do not help with vehicle trades or the finance/aftersale market, a dealerships largest profit centers)