Step one: Figure out how much money I can spend.
Step two: Decide what kind of car I want.
Step three: See how much my trade-in is worth.
Step four: Check out LaSalleCars.
Step five: Start researching dealerships ...

Shopping for a car might seem like a long, involved process. With all the decisions to make and the options to explore, it can be overwhelming. But, with a little research and good use of your resources, it's easier than you may think.

The most important thing to take to the dealership: knowledge
The main thing to remember when purchasing a car is this: The more research you do, the better price you'll get. The consumer who heads to the dealership blindly simply won't get the same deal as the one who takes the time to do research beforehand. Here are some examples of what to know before you go:

The dealer invoice price. This is the price the manufacturer has charged the dealer for the car. While the dealer might not be thrilled that you have this information, you'll probably be treated with more respect and will get a better deal in the long run. A fair asking price is this amount plus an additional 2 percent to 5 percent.

The manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP). Also called the sticker price, this is the cost that includes the installed options, dealer extras and markup. Knowing this price and the invoice price will help you determine how much bargaining room you have.

Your own financial guidelines. Before you start negotiating, determine exactly how much you're willing to pay for a car and what kind of monthly payments you can afford. Once you've decided on a maximum price limit and monthly payments, resolve to stick to these guidelines.

While all of this information is fairly accessible, some of it can be expensive. Auto pricing services generally charge $10-$20 per request for dealers' costs and option prices. Fortunately, using LaSalleCars gives you a special privilege -- the privilege of having all of this information at your fingertips -- for FREE!

Meet the car buying challenge with LaSalleCars
By clicking onto LaSalleCars, you'll instantly find that your search for a car is already half over. LaSalleCars will help you:

Obtain accurate pricing information on any used or new car -- both the dealer invoice price and the manufacturer's suggested retail price.

Get a referral to a nearby, authorized dealer who has agreed to sell you a car you like at a low price.

Calculate how much you can afford to spend on a car and what the monthly payment may be.

Once you've found a car you like at a price that fits your guidelines, you can test drive our Auto Loan Calculators, then apply for a LaSalle auto loan quickly and easily, over the telephone.