These guides cover how to inspect a used car, check its history, compare loans, negotiate and budget for ownership. Each one points to its sources and the calculators that go with it.
THE BUYER’S NOTEBOOKBuy a used car in 12 steps: set a budget, check the VIN and history, inspect, test drive, get a mechanic's opinion, compare loans and verify paperwork.
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How to buy a used car from a private seller: verify the seller and VIN, inspect, line up a loan, pay safely, clear any lien and transfer the title.
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How extra payments cut car loan interest, how to get a dated payoff quote, and when paying a loan off early won't save you much or costs you more.
Read guideWork out a used car's out-the-door price by splitting the vehicle price, sales tax, title and registration, dealer fees and optional add-ons.
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Estimate what an EV charge costs from battery size, start and end charge, price per kWh and charging losses, plus cost per mile at home or in public.
Read guideWhen refinancing a car loan saves money, when a longer term costs more, and how to compare payments, fees and total repayment between lenders.
Read guideSee how our guides are drafted, which sources they cite, and how to report a correction.
Buying outside the US? Find official history and ownership checks by country.
Work out what you can comfortably pay each month, then measure every car against it.
