Okay, we got in a fender bender and now we’re thrown into the market for a new “used” car. Doing your research is paramount to buying a used car. Since we drive so much and regularly “kill” cars, leasing new was out of the question. Buying used was our only option and we didn’t want to take on a sizable car payment. So, when I couldn’t find my Consumer Reports buying guide, I quickly turned to the web to not only get pricing, but reviews and recommendations.

At first I found www.familycar.com where they not only give reviews of both new and older model cars, but tips on car care, repairs, driving and a list of recommended car repair shops. It’s a good starting point.

I also found www.Edmunds.com which also had reviews and tips for both new and used cars. Plus they had links to Auto Trader listings. I could scan through models I liked and get a better feel for actual market value.

www.autosite.com had good reviews and links as well. This site also links to Auto Trader.

Having so much information at your finger tips is very helpful in limiting your choices down to a few models and becoming educated about the market place. It takes a bit of time, but is well worth the effort to save some mullah on a good car.