Car-Buying Tips

As we near the car-buying season, these tips from USA.gov may be useful. It is especially helpful to find out the Kelley Blue Book value of your trade-in before you arrive at the showroom. 

Government Tips when buying a car

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

NHTSA has set the standard for safety, helping consumers find safer cars with its 5-Star Safety Ratings for more than 30 years. Now, buying a safer car just got easier with the new Overall Rating that makes comparing vehicles simple. Take a test drive of SaferCar.gov and explore the safety features and ratings of your next car. http://www.safercar.gov/Vehicle+Shoppers

Fuel Economy

Find out the approximate fuel costs, carbon footprint, and air pollution score for cars you may be considering. http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.htm  

Kelley Blue Book

For new cars, see how much a dealer typically pays (invoice price) and how much the average consumer is paying (fair purchase price). For used cars, look up a model's trade-in value, private party value, and suggested retail value.  http://www.kbb.com/  

Government Sales and Auctions

Buy new, seized, and surplus merchandise and real estate from the government. Some items sold online by auction or fixed price. Others available by public auction, sealed bid, or contract with a Realtor.  http://www.usa.gov/shopping/shopping.shtml