1.) Know your wants
Know what you want before shopping

2.) Research
Research your desired vehicle by getting consumer reports and expert reviews

3.) Comparisons and test drives
Compare your desired vehicle against other vehicles. You may find another model that may meet all your automotive requirements. Take test drives of your desired vehicle at more than one dealership. Surprisingly enough some dealers may not maintenance their unsold vehicles the same as other dealers.

4.) Pricing
Never pay to much. Compare local prices with online prices and Kelly Blue Book value. Pay special attention to interest rates, and terms of the loan. Also besure to get quotes on auto insurance before you buy. Remember this has to factor in for your car expenses. If you want to get closer to you monthly expenses try to configure your monthly gas expenses as will. Don't buy something you can afford. 

5.) History Report
Before that final transaction takes place get a history report from your dealer