Did you know? When you buy a new car it instantly lowers in value 10% - 20% the second you drive it off the dealers lot? That's why dollar for dollar a good used car is the best value for the money.

A good used car is an excellent bargain because you're letting someone else pay for the depreciation (Isn't that nice of them?).

Knowing this is important if you're on a tight budget. It's also important if you just adore having extra money in your savings account.

It's even important if you get a toe tingling thrill from buying the most car for your money.

Yes, when it comes to the most economical form of private transportation, nothing beats a dependable used car.

Knowing how to choose a dependable used car allows you to own a car for pennies instead of dollars per mile.

After following the suggestions in this chapter you'll know more about buying a used car than most people.

This lack of knowledge is why most people will buy a new car even though most used cars depreciate 20% - 30% in the first 2 years of ownership.

Yes, I know buying a new car can give you a sense of dependability. But did you know today's used cars are more dependable than ever? In fact, many used cars sitting on lots still have new car warranties on them.

This chapter gives you an insiders view on picking a dependable used car.

If you've ever wondered how used car dealers choose their cars, read on.

You'll learn the basics - such as where to start, how to start and how to avoid buying a lemon. And if by some remote chance you do buy a lemon, I'll show you what to do about it.

Other than the cost of housing, the average Americans largest expense is transportation.

I can promise you salespeople will treat you much differently when you've done your homework. Reading this chapter is your first homework assignment.

Learning and doing just a few of the suggestions in this chapter can save you hundreds - maybe thousands of dollars.

After reading and applying the ideas in this chapter car shopping will no longer seem like mystery. But will evolve into a fun, money-saving experience.

Read this chapter at least 3 times before shopping for a car. You'll find it a wise use of your time that will translate into dollars in your pocket.

Now if your ready. Sit comfortably, snap on your seat belt and let's get going.

1. First, before starting your search for a dependable used car, take the time to think on what you want and don't want in a car. Make a list of the features you want in order of importance. Make sure they match with your budget.

2. If you need more time to look at cars, consider renting a car for another week or two. It will be cheaper in the long run than rushing into a purchase.

3. The ideal age for a used car is 2 - 3 years old. That's the best balance of age. Because most warranties are usually still in affect and most of the depreciation on the car gone, you benefit both ways.

4. Never buy a car at night, when you're hungry, when you're tired or when it's raining.

5. A good strategy for finding a good deal is to observe two or three dealerships for 60 days. Take note of the cars that are still sitting on the lot after 60 days. These are opportunities to negotiate good deals. Dealers get nervous when cars sit too long.

6. Another way to get good bargains is to shop toward the end of the month. The last week of the month is when dealers and salespeople are worry most about sales quotas, incentives and paying the bills.

7. You'll often have a better chance of scoring a good bargain buying from an individual than car dealerships.

8. You can get a complete history of any used car or light truck made after 1981 up to the present. You'll need the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) Go to

http://www.CarFax.com

9. Want to know if the car you're considering to purchase has been recalled for a safety defect. Go to http://www.dot.gov/

10. The classifieds are the best place to gauge used car prices in your local area. Read them for at least a week before you start shopping.

11. A quick tip to judging a good dependable used car is to notice how many you see on the road. See a lot? That's often a hint those cars are dependable, easy to service and have more available parts.

12. Want to get the best deal? Never appear too excited over any car when negotiating or even in the presence of a sales associate. This could ruin your chances at a bargain for that car.

13. Avoid high-pressure sale people and tactics. If the car is that good they shouldn't have to pressure you into buying it, right?

14. When inspecting a car avoid slamming doors, kicking tires or redlining the engine (pressing the pedal all the way to the floor). It will mark you as a rank amateur to most professional salespeople.

Treat the car like you would like someone to treat your car if it was for sale.

This attitude will gain you more respect from the salesperson and make for a smoother negotiation.

15. Many dealers offer "Certified Vehicles." Vehicles offering extended warranties because of their hundred or two hundred point inspections. However, don't let this lull you into a false sense of security. You still have to follow the ideas in this chapter to get the best bargains.

16. When you test-drive a car don't settle with a drive around the block. Let the seller know in advance you'd like to drive the car at least 30 minutes. Offer to buy gas or have the seller ride with you.

17. When test-driving try to drive on hills, freeways, bumpy roads, and smooth streets. Test the radio, but never drive with the radio on. It could drown out funny noises the car could be making.

18. Arrange in advance to have a trusted mechanic inspect the car before you buy it. This is one of your most important protections. It's a sign of an intelligent buyer. Most salespeople respect this and it discourages them from sticking you with a lemon.

19. When you push down on the accelerator does the exhaust blow out white, blue or black smoke? This could be a sign of bad pistons, rings or valves. Blue smoke can also signal the car is burning oil excessively.

20. When you've narrowed your choice down to two cars call your insurance agent.

And ask which car is cheaper to insure and add this to your final decision.

21. Dealers often raise the price of the car if they know you have a trade-in.

Discuss trade-in only after you settle the final price to avoid confusion.

22. Whatever deal you negotiate, make sure you get all promises in writing before you sign a contract or give a deposit.

23. Remember, if you have to have a certain car, color or model and the salesperson find out you'll usually pay top dollar for it.

Yes, a dependable used car can give you thousands of miles of low cost transportation. Just follow the suggestions in this chapter. It's simple if you take the time to choose wisely.