Car Types & Use Cases
This drivetrain layout provides better traction in slippery conditions by sending power to all four wheels, but often reduces fuel economy
What is all-wheel drive (AWD)?
This is the term for the interest paid over time on a loan.
What is a finance charge?
When buying a used car, this is what CPO stands for.
What is certified pre-owned?
This key interior test is often overlooked, but can reveal long-term comfort and ergonomic issues.
What is checking seat support, adjustability, and driving posture over an extended drive?
This is the tactic of being willing to leave the dealership called?
What is walking away power?
This type of vehicle architecture uses a body-on-frame design, making it better for towing and off-roading but usually less fuel-efficient.
What is a body-on-frame SUV or truck?
This is the credit score range that typically unlocks the best auto loan rates.
What is 720+?
This is the largest financial advantage of buying a used car vs. new car.
What is avoiding initial depreciation?
This is the recommended minimum length of a thorough test drive to properly evaluate a vehicle.
What is 20-30 minutes?
Between financing, price, and trade-in, this is what you should be negotiate last.
What is financing?
This type of car is ideal for someone who frequently drives long distances, wants quick acceleration for highway merging, and values efficiency - combining both gas and electric power.
What is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV)?
This is the term for the amount you owe on a loan compared to the car's value.
What is loan-to-value ratio?
This is the key document that can reveal accidents and past ownership.
What is a vehicle history report?
This is one reason why you should test a vehicle on both city streets and highways.
What is to compare low-speed handling with high-speed stability and acceleration?
This is the price the dealer pays the manufacturer.
What is the invoice price?
Someone who wants maximum cargo space, sliding doors, and a low step-in height for passengers with mobility challenges is most likely to benefit from this type of vehicle.
What is a minivan?
This is one major downside of extending your loan term to lower monthly payments.
What is higher total interest cost?
This is the one reason a used car might be riskier than a new one.
What is unknown long-term maintenance history?
This is the subtle transmission issue that might be indicated by a slight shudder or RPM jump during gear changes.
What is a slipping transmission?
This is a fee you should question because it's often inflated or unnecessary.
What is the dealer documentation fee?
If a buyer needs precise handling, minimal body roll, and a low center of gravity for performance driving, they should choose a car with this type of suspension setup, commonly found on sports sedans and luxury vehicles.
What is a multi-link (or independent) rear suspension?
This is a financing tactic you should avoid because it hides the true cost of the loan.
What is focusing only on monthly payment?
This used-car pricing guide is commonly used to estimate a car's fair value.
What is Kelley Blue Book?
This is the term for the hesitation or delay you might feel between pressing the accelerator and the engine responding.
What is throttle lag (or turbo lag, depending on the vehicle)?
This is a written document you should request to ensure the negotiated price is honored.
What is the Out-the-Door Price Quote?