The Consumer Automotive Guide

Navigate Every Car Purchase with Confidence

Three decades of industry knowledge, organized into the stages of a car purchase, from research to delivery.

How to approach each stage of a purchase

Before You Shop

Credit score, monthly budget, powertrain decisions, and the cost research that should happen before contacting any dealer.

Get prepared →

New vs Used

The decision between new and used, between leasing and buying, and how to identify the right target price.

Make the decision →

Leasing

How leasing works and how to request a fully itemized quote from any dealer.

Request a lease quote →

Buying a Car

How buying works and how to request competitive quotes from multiple dealers, with separate email templates for new and used purchases.

Request a purchase quote →

Ready to Negotiate

How to evaluate competing quotes, use timing to strengthen the purchase, and confirm every number in writing.

Evaluate and negotiate →

At the Dealership

Verifying the paperwork, navigating the finance office, and taking delivery on the buyer's terms.

Finalize and take delivery →

Three principles that drive every successful purchase

Preparation before any dealer conversation

Research pricing, market data, and financing options first. Every conversation should begin with the buyer's numbers already established.

Negotiation by email rather than in person

The dealership visit should be reserved for finalizing paperwork and taking delivery. All numbers should be agreed in writing before any visit.

Discipline through the finance office

The finance office presents additional products for purchase. Each product should be evaluated independently rather than accepted as part of the transaction.

Already decided on leasing?

Skip ahead to the leasing process and the lease quote email template.

Go to Leasing →

Already decided on buying?

Skip ahead to the buying process and the purchase email templates.

Go to Buying →