How to Buy a Minivan

If your family is starting to feel a little crowded in you present car, you probably need to start looking for a minivan to buy. Minivans are an excellent choice of vehicle for families. You'll have plenty of room for all the kids to sit without bothering each other, and extra space for all their gear. Buying your minivan doesn't have to be overwhelming though. There are a few things you can do to help you be prepared before going to the dealership.

Things You'll Need

• Credit report
• Down payment

Instructions

1. Check your credit report to see what you currently have for a credit rating. The better your credit rating, the better financing you'll receive. Receive a free credit report annually by calling [phone].

2. Know the value of your trade in. Call the dealerships you are interested in doing business with and ask what you can expect to get for your current vehicle.

3. Call your bank or credit union to get pre-approved for an auto loan. Even if you decide not to use the pre-approved loan, you'll have a valuable bargaining tool at the dealership.

4. Read a current consumer report for minivan comparisons. Find which make and model has the best safety rating, gets the best gas mileage and had the best road test. Also compare the standard and add-on equipment, and warranties for all makes and models.

5. Check the manufactures' Web sites of each minivan you like. Find out if they are offering any special rebates or buyer incentive programs. Print the information and take it with you to the dealership to ensure that you receive the special.

6. Check your local newspaper for dealership specials. Check the dealership's Web site if they have one. Print out any Internet specials they have listed. Make sure you take the information from both the paper and the Internet with you when you go to buy your minivan.

7. Know ahead of time what you are willing to pay and what type of monthly payment you can afford. Have money for a down payment in order to lower the monthly payments.

Tips & Warnings

• Be prepared to say no and walk out if you are not comfortable with the terms of the sale. You can always go to another dealership.

• Call the dealership and speak to a salesperson in advance. Let them know exactly what you are looking for and set an appointment for a test drive. The salesperson will be prepared to help you and you'll spend less time at the dealership.

• Be aware of possible bait and switch tactics. If the dealership doesn't have an advertised special and tries to get you to buy something more expensive, leave immediately and don't do business with them.