Car Buying Tips | Abc News

: Be wary of 72-month or 84-month loans. While they lower monthly bills, they increase total interest paid and keep you "underwater" (owing more than the car is worth) for much longer.

: Holidays or the end of the month, quarter, or year are often good times to find motivated sellers. abc news car buying tips

ABC News offers a variety of car-buying tips focusing on negotiation strategies, budgeting, and inspection to help shoppers avoid common pitfalls like overpaying or taking on unmanageable debt. : Be wary of 72-month or 84-month loans

: Avoid the "monthly payment" trap. Dealers often use monthly budgets to hide the true cost of the vehicle, interest rates, or expensive add-ons like extended warranties. ABC News offers a variety of car-buying tips

: With trade-in values remaining strong in 2026, get multiple appraisals online and from local dealers to ensure you capture your car's full value as a negotiating tool. Used Car Shopping Tips

: Request a vehicle history report and check the VIN at safecar.gov for open recalls or title issues.

: Avoid being the first to buy a newly released model, as high demand allows dealers to charge MSRP or higher. Waiting a few months for inventory to stabilize can lead to better deals.