Listen, here is the thing you need to know about buying a car in these simple steps. A deal is only as good as you think it is. Do you want to pay 12000, 11000 or are you looking for a payment? At the dealership I work most of the cars used or new are only marked up at most $2500. If you want a warranty ask for one, a full bumper to bumper will most likly run $1800...even this is negotiable. People really make buying a car harder than it has to be, before you go shopping look at you budget and decide what is the majic number....the number you will buy today, and look for that number. If you finance generally the formula is 20 dollars for every 1000 finaced. As far a the car ask to take it to you family mechanic, if they say you cant, walk...I have personally driven to about 20 family mechanics, and had people that didnt even ask to take it, but feel better when we offer the chance to them. Ask up front if they have carfax or offer a vehicle history report...we do at the dealership I work. Also ask people about the reputation of the dealership you are looking ask for a salesman that might have assisted a friend or relative. I sell cars I am not the devil, people dont see it that way however it its true....I guess what I am saying is find a salesman that puts fun into it. Oh and good luck have fun...if you have any questions about a deal that is worked up post the numbers you get on the forum and I will check them here.