Buying your first car feels like a rite of passage, doesn’t it? I still remember walking into a dealership for the first time, equal parts excited and clueless. Spoiler alert: I made a few mistakes along the way—but hey, that’s how you learn, right? If you’re gearing up to buy your first set of wheels, let me share some hard-earned tips for first time car buyers to make the process smoother for you.

1. Set a Realistic Budget (and Stick to It!)

I can’t stress this enough: figure out how much car you can actually afford before you start looking. And don’t just think about the sticker price—there’s insurance, gas, maintenance, and maybe even a car loan. When I bought my first car, I only budgeted for the monthly payment, forgetting about insurance hikes for new drivers. Ouch.

A good rule of thumb? Keep your car expenses under 15% of your monthly income. Also, don’t forget about taxes and registration fees—they can add up quickly!

2. Decide Between New, Used, or Certified Pre-Owned (CPO)

Here’s the thing: new cars are shiny, but they depreciate like crazy as soon as you drive them off the lot. I went with a used car for my first ride, and honestly, it was the best decision. Used cars are more affordable, and if you do your homework, you can find one in great condition.

If you’re worried about reliability, consider a certified pre-owned vehicle. These come with warranties and have been inspected by the manufacturer, so it’s like a middle ground between new and used.

3. Get Pre-Approved for Financing

Walking into a dealership without pre-approved financing is like going to a buffet on an empty stomach—bad things will happen. Dealerships often offer loans, but their rates aren’t always the best. I made the rookie mistake of financing through the dealership, and let’s just say I paid more interest than I should have.

Check with your bank or credit union first. Having a pre-approval not only gives you better bargaining power but also keeps you from falling for those “0% APR for 12 months” traps that sometimes come with strings attached.

4. Do Your Research (Like, A Lot)

This might sound obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people skip this step. Compare different makes and models based on reliability, safety, and resale value. I spent weeks on car forums, reading reviews, and watching YouTube walkthroughs. Nerdy? Maybe. Worth it? Definitely.

Check sites like Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds to get an idea of a fair price. Knowledge is power, especially when you’re negotiating.

5. Test Drive (And Test Drive Some More)

I almost bought the first car I test drove because it felt “fine.” Thank goodness my dad made me try a few more. Different cars handle differently, and you won’t know what suits you until you try.

When test-driving, pay attention to how it feels—not just the look of the dashboard. Is the seat comfortable? Does it accelerate smoothly? Are there any weird noises? Take it on the highway and in stop-and-go traffic if you can.

6. Don’t Skip the Vehicle History Report

If you’re buying used, always ask for a vehicle history report. Websites like Carfax or AutoCheck can show you if the car’s been in accidents, had recalls, or has a clean title. I almost bought a car with a salvage title because it was “such a deal.” Trust me, you don’t want that headache.

7. Negotiate Like a Pro

Negotiating can feel intimidating, but remember: the sticker price isn’t set in stone. I went in thinking I had to pay whatever the dealer said, but that’s not true. Start by offering slightly below what you’re willing to pay and let them come up. And don’t be afraid to walk away—there are plenty of cars out there!

8. Understand the Warranty

Whether it’s a manufacturer’s warranty or an extended one, make sure you know what’s covered. Is it just the engine? Does it include roadside assistance? When I bought my car, I didn’t realize my “comprehensive” warranty didn’t cover wear-and-tear items like brakes or tires. Lesson learned.

9. Sleep on It

Impulse buying is the enemy of good decision-making. After finding a car you like, take a day to think about it. I know it’s tempting to drive off the lot right away, but giving yourself time to consider can prevent buyer’s remorse.

10. Celebrate Your Purchase (Responsibly)

Buying your first car is a big deal, so enjoy the moment! Just don’t forget to snap a picture with your new ride for the ’gram—it’s basically a requirement these days.

First-time car buying is a mix of excitement, anxiety, and a bit of a learning curve. Hopefully, these tips help you avoid some of the bumps I hit along the way. If you take your time, do your research, and stick to your budget, you’ll find the perfect car for your needs. Happy car hunting!