Buying My First Used Car Apr 2026

: Be aware of the 30-60-90 rule , which highlights major maintenance needs at 30,000, 60,000, and 90,000 miles. 2. Research and Inspection

Buying your first used car can be a complex process involving financial planning, technical inspections, and negotiation. Below are the key steps and "rules" to follow, as outlined by experts and reputable consumer resources. 1. Establish Your Budget buying my first used car

Experts recommend several formulas to determine what you can realistically afford: : Be aware of the 30-60-90 rule ,

: Budget for more than just the purchase price. Factor in taxes, registration fees, insurance, gas, and maintenance . buying my first used car

: Put down 20% , finance for no more than 3 years , and keep total car expenses under 8% of your monthly income.