Buying & Owning a Car

Having a car can be an expensive proposition. Read tips on buying vs. leasing, negotiating the best deal, financing, getting the most out of warranties and service contracts, using gas efficiently, and avoiding repossession.

Buying, Leasing, or Renting

Auto Loan Modification Scams

Should you trust companies that promise to negotiate lower payments for your car loan if you pay them a fee in advance?

Auto Trade-ins and Negative Equity

What can you expect at trade-in when you owe more on your car than it’s worth?

Buying a New Car

Get tips about pricing terms, financing options, trade-ins, and service contracts.

Buying a Used Car

The Buyers Guide is required on all used cars sold by dealers. Read about payment options, private sales, warranties, service contracts and spoken promises.

Car Ads

That ‘special’ offer by a car dealer may not be the best deal. Here’s how to compare the terms of sale prices and financing in ads.

Renting a Car

This guide to common terms and fees can make renting a car easier and less expensive.

Understanding Vehicle Financing

Before you lease or financing a new or used vehicle, learn more about your options and what to expect at the dealership.

Warranties & Service Contracts

Auto Service Contracts and Warranties

What’s the difference between a service contract and a warranty? Find out, and get tips on how to recognize and avoid auto warranty scams.

Auto Warranties & Routine Maintenance

Is it ever okay for an auto dealer to deny warranty coverage because someone else did routine maintenance on your car?

Repair & Maintenance

Auto Repair Basics

Take the scare out of auto repair with these tips about how your vehicle works, how to identify common problems, and how to select a good mechanic.

Buying Gas

"Gas-Saving" Products

Many gas-saving products may be a waste of money.

Paying a Premium for High Octane Gasoline?

Higher octane fuel is not necessarily better for your car.

Saving Money on Gas

These tips can help you stretch your gas dollars.

Vehicle Repossession

Vehicle Repossession

Here’s “must know” information about when and how your car can be repossessed.