Introduction to buying or leasing a vehicle

OK, so you need wheels. New or used? Buy or lease? Decisons, decisions ...

This guide to the basics of acquiring an auto will walk you through the key steps: from finding the right vehicle to deciding on new or pre-owned, from checking out a vehicle to deciding whether a loan or a lease is better for you. We'll also show you how to make sure you don't get ripped off in the process and how to fight back if you already have been.

Before you drive, you buckle up. That's good common sense. Before you shop for an auto, you come here. That's good common sense, too.

-- Updated: March 19, 2004