Looking for a new set of wheels? Or are you out in the market for your very first one? Whatever the situation is, know that whenever you are looking for a car, there are certain things that you should look for. You should also be prepared before walking into a car dealership so that you don't get ripped off in the end. Here are a few tips that you can refer to if you are looking to get a new car this year.

• Make sure you have the money – Whether you are paying cash or if you are planning to do a car lease, you have to get your funds in order. Make sure that you have the money for a new car before you go out to actually shop for one. It doesn't make sense to go out and look for cars to buy when you don't have the money in the first place.

In the case of leasing a car, even if you are going to pay the monthly payments for the next 3 to 5 years, it will be much easier to have the amount equal to the value of the car ahead of time. This is just good purchasing on your side and you won't have to worry about running short in any of the two situations.

• Know your choices – The thing about cars is that there are so many to choose from. Manufacturers have all sorts of promises and models that you will surely drool over. The important thing is that you know exactly what you are looking for in a car. Knowing what you are looking for is tantamount to knowing exactly which cars you want. Sure you are only making one choice but if you narrow down all the best cars that suit your needs, the decision will be easier to make.

• Research – Found the car that you really like? Before buying it, do some research on the model or the make of the car. You may also want to research the manufacturer of the car to look into things such as after-market services. The worst thing that you don't want to happen is your new car breaking down and the manufacturer not taking any responsibility for the damages. Also, you may want to look into the finer details of the vehicle, like what its weaknesses and strengths are and whether or not finding parts for it will be difficult in the long term.

• Haggle for the best price – Dealers will always tell you that the prices you see stuck on cars are the last price. But that is not always the case. In fact, there are some dealers that will sell you a car for more than it actually is. So this is the time when you should start asking for discounts. If discounts can't be given, you should also try haggling for certain extras as freebies if you buy the car. These things may include extra time on the insurance that the car comes with. Or it can even mean getting free car seats, mats, extra tools, or anything of the sort. See how much you can get away with from your dealer so that you get your money's worth.