Buying My First Used Car May 2026

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

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: : Put down 20% , finance for no

: Alternatively, keep your monthly car payment under 15% of your monthly income. : Put down 20%

Never skip a thorough vetting process to avoid "buying someone else's problem." Buying a Used Car From a Dealer - FTC Consumer Advice