In many US cities a car is needed to work and shop. Buying one is a big step. Go slowly and get everything in writing.
New: costs more and loses value fast in the first years, but has a full warranty. Dealers often offer loans.
Used: cheaper. Risk of hidden problems. A certified pre-owned car is a used car checked by a brand dealer and sold with an extra warranty.
Dealer: a business. It handles the paperwork, title and registration, and may offer a loan. Federal law requires a Buyers Guide sticker on every used car, saying if it is sold as is (no warranty) or with a warranty.
Private seller: a person, often found online. Often cheaper, but no warranty, and you handle the title transfer and registration yourself at the DMV.
Ask for the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number, 17 characters, on the dashboard near the windshield and on the door frame).
Get a vehicle history report. The government database NMVTIS lists approved providers at vehiclehistory.gov. Private reports like Carfax and AutoCheck also show accidents, owners and service records.
Check open safety recalls for free at nhtsa.gov/recalls with the VIN.
The title is the ownership paper. Read its brand:
Clean: no major reported damage.
Salvage: an insurer declared it a total loss. Often cannot be driven or registered until repaired and inspected.
Rebuilt or reconstructed: was salvage, then repaired. Cheaper, but harder to insure and resell.
Flood: water damage. Avoid unless you are an expert.
The seller's name must match the title. Never buy without the title in hand.
Test drive and inspection
Test drive on city streets and a highway. Listen for noises, check brakes, steering, air conditioning and heat, and all lights.
Pay an independent mechanic (not the seller's) for a pre-purchase inspection. It often costs around one or two hundred dollars and can save thousands.
The dealer may add extras: extended warranties, paint protection, tire packages, VIN etching, GAP insurance. Most are optional. Ask for the out-the-door price: one total with tax, title, registration and all fees.
There is no federal 3-day right to cancel a car purchase. Some states have rules; read before you sign.
Financing without US credit
Bring a bigger down payment.
Ask your bank or a credit union; some have newcomer loans.
Some brands' finance companies have programs for international students or new workers with a job letter.
A co-signer with US credit can help.
Compare the APR (yearly interest rate) and total cost, not only the monthly payment.
Sending a deposit to an online seller you have not met. A common scam.
Signing a contract with blank spaces.
Driving away without insurance. Buy insurance before you take the car.