Car Buying Checklist That Prevents Mistakes

A car buying checklist in the U.S. helps you avoid common mistakes: overpaying, buying on emotion, skipping OTD or total cost, and signing without reading. Here's a checklist that prevents mistakes.

TL;DR Before you go: (1) set max OTD and max payment; (2) get comps and fair value—autopremo.com price checker; (3) build OTD—autopremo.com OTD calculator; (4) run total cost—autopremo.com total cost of ownership. At the dealer: (5) negotiate on OTD, not payment; (6) get OTD in writing; (7) read the contract before signing. Use autopremo.com so you never skip a step.

Before You Go

• Set max OTD and max payment — write them down. Don't exceed them. Use autopremo.com affordability if you need help. Get your numbers at autopremo.com.
• Get comps and fair value — same make, model, trim, similar mileage in your area. Know the median and range. Use autopremo.com price checker. If the car is above fair value, don't go unless you're prepared to negotiate down. See comps at autopremo.com.
• Build OTD — selling price + tax + title + doc fee + add-ons. Use autopremo.com OTD calculator. If estimated OTD is above your max, don't go or raise your offer only if you're willing. Check OTD at autopremo.com.
• Run total cost — 5-year depreciation, fuel, insurance, maintenance. Use autopremo.com total cost of ownership. Make sure you're comfortable with the full cost. See total cost at autopremo.com.

At the Dealer

• Negotiate on OTD first — not monthly payment. Say "I'm focused on out-the-door price." Once OTD is agreed, then discuss term and payment. Use autopremo.com so you know fair value before you negotiate.
• Get OTD in writing — full breakdown: selling price, incentives, fees, total OTD. No verbal "we'll take care of it." If they won't put it in writing, walk. Use autopremo.com for reference numbers.
• Read the contract — before you sign, read the numbers. Confirm OTD, rate, term, and that there are no surprise add-ons. If anything doesn't match what you agreed, don't sign. Use autopremo.com so you have your target numbers to compare.

After You Agree

• Don't add products under pressure — extended warranty, gap, protection packages. Decide before you go whether you want them and at what max price. Say no if you're unsure. Use autopremo.com to stay focused on the car deal.

Bottom Line

Use a checklist: budget and data before you go; OTD negotiation and written OTD at the dealer; read the contract before signing. Use autopremo.com for fair value, OTD, and total cost so you never skip a step and avoid the mistakes that cost buyers money.