Step 1a. If you plan to finance, get a pre-approval. The bank will say how much, based on your credit history and income.

Step 1. Most people don't settle on just one model of car initially. Based on their personal requirements, they have anywhere from 2 to 5. You test drive each. One may stand out as superior, or you may need to dig deeper into specs and owners forums to help choose.

Step 2. Now that you know without a doubt what car works best for you right now, you see what dealers nearby have the exact car, down to options and colours.

Step 3, 4, 5. See the FAQ on how to determine a fair price without all the going back and forth of emails. Give the dealer that spent time with you during the test drive a chance to match it or beat it. They might not have the exact car in stock, but they may be able to get it. If they won't, move on to the other dealers who have it in stock and see if they will match or beat the price. Get offer in writing and itemized.

Step 6. Call your insurance company to let them know you'll be taking delivery on a certain date. You may or may not have the vin#, but if not, just call them from the dealer and they will send over proof of insurance. You can't leave the dealer without it.

The dealer takes your down payment. They also take your loan approval letter, and with your permission, will try to find other banks that beat the interest rates. Your bank remains as the backup. You write up the contract and take the car home that day.

Step 7. Additional warranties and service plans are up to you. Most warranties are cancel-able and pro-rated. But you don't need to buy them. You can pay for them out of pocket, or if the dealer has found a new bank at a better rate, they might be able to be rolled into the loan.

Step 8. Burn gas and kill bugs.