Choosing Your Car

Downside:

In the market for a new car? Think preowned, many car-buying experts say.A new car loses a big chunk of its value as soon as you drive it off the dealer'slot. With a preowned car, the previous owner has taken the depreciation hitand you get the benefit. You may not find the exact combination offeatures and add-ons that you're looking for. If you choose to buy new, takea look at Edmunds.com or the Kelley Blue Book Web site (www.kbb.com) tosee what the dealer paid for the car. You can then use that information to dickerfor the best price. Lastly, don't take out a long-term loan just to keep yourmonthly payment low. A 4- or 5-year car loan can cost you a bundle in interestbefore you pay it off.