Car Shopping
How to Use Your Tax Refund as a Down Payment
Use a tax refund to boost your car down payment, lower the loan amount, or cover out-the-door costs while keeping a small savings cushion for inspections, maintenance, and repairs.
Chris Hardesty
Car Shopping
What Is More Important When Buying a Used Car: Miles or Age?
Maintenance history beats age and mileage when judging a used car. Learn what miles mean, why low mileage an be risky, which safety features matter, and how financing limits may apply.
Car Shopping
Should You Fix Dents and Scrapes in Your Older Car?
Deciding whether to fix a dent, scrape, or scratch? Learn typical repair costs, when insurance help and a quick checklist to know when to repair and when to leave it.
Car Shopping
Should You Trade In or Donate Your Used Car?
Compare the pros and cons of trading in vs. donating a car.
Car Shopping
How to Tell if the Car You Want Was Built in the US
To find out if the car you want is made in the USA, decipher the VIN, check the door jamb sticker, search online and remember that American car companies can have assembly plants outside of the US.
Car Shopping
How Do You Know a Car’s In-Service Date?
A car’s in-service date is its original sale date — and it determines when factory and many CPO warranties and perks begin and expire.
Car Shopping
Don’t Skip These 8 Safety Features on Your Next Car
Shop smarter without sacrificing safety. Here are 8 must-have car safety features to prioritize when buying a new or used vehicle on a budget.
Car Shopping
Check for Rust Before You Buy a Used Car
Avoid costly surprises when buying a used car—learn where rust hides, how to spot early warning signs, and when rust damage is a dealbreaker.
Car Shopping
Who Is Responsible for a Defect After You Buy a Car?
Responsibility for a used-car defect varies. Learn what to do next and how to avoid problems before you buy.
Car Shopping
How Do You Add Insurance if You Buy a Car Over the Weekend?
Learn how to add car insurance over the weekend when buying a vehicle. Discover grace periods, 24/7 hotlines, and pre-purchase coverage options to avoid delivery delays.