1. Don't Jump Into a Long-Term Car Loan Strictly for the Lower Monthly Payment

Sometimes a higher payment is better if that offsets the length of your loan term. Financing a car over a longer term often results in higher interest rates, which could mean paying more for a car in the long run despite a lower monthly payment. Thinking long-term with a short-term loan may save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars over time, so do your future self a favor and consider the big picture when choosing the length of your auto loan.

2. Shop Around for Vehicle Financing, and Don't Worry About the Hit on Your Credit Score

Contrary to popular belief, shopping around to find the best interest rate available for you will generally have little to no impact on your credit score. Usually any requests for your credit score by auto lenders that take place within a short time span will count as a single inquiry. For example, if you authorize multiple lenders to check your credit within a 14-day time span, all of those inquiries may count as one. Even if your loan shopping falls outside of the time limit and counts as more than one inquiry, the financial benefits of doing your homework to secure a lower interest rate are worth possibly dropping a few points from your score.

3. If You Have Excellent Credit, Look for 0 Percent Interest Deals -- They Really Do Exist

Qualifying consumers with a long history of stellar credit can sometimes secure a 0 percent loan from an automaker, but these are usually limited to consumers with stellar credit. To avoid disappointment, find out in advance what credit score is required to qualify for the 0 percent interest rate if that rate is a critical part of your buying decision.

4. Finance Instead of Paying With Cash When the Interest Rate Is Right

Surprisingly, sometimes having a car payment actually can be a smarter financial decision than paying for a car in cash. The primary situation in which you should finance rather than pay in full with cash comes when interest rates are especially low. Even if you're given a rate as low as just a few percent, it's smart to consider financing to build a healthy credit history and to keep extra cash on hand that otherwise would be tied up in your vehicle. 

5. If You Have Weak Credit, Produce a Hefty Down Payment

Don't be discouraged if your credit isn't squeaky-clean; instead, focus on showing lenders that you are serious about your finances by spending a sizable amount on your down payment. A reasonable down payment is 20 percent, as lending institutions believe that the more equity you have in the car, the less likely you'll be to default on the loan. 

6. If You've Ever Filed for Bankruptcy, You Still Have Options

Following a bankruptcy, you may have difficulty financing a car while you rebuild your credit, but it's not impossible. Think beyond traditional banks and look at places that may have slightly more relaxed lending practices like a credit union and financing offered at various new and used car dealerships. Be safely grounded in reality, don't try to buy more car than you need or can afford, and put down as much on the loan as you can.

7. If You're Planning to Lease Because You Want a New Car, Try Buying CPO

Leasing may be tempting if you can get a brand new car with a lower monthly payment. However, consumers should consider the benefits of buying certified pre-owned (CPO) instead. Remember that when leasing, you are not building equity like you would in a purchased vehicle. So, when your lease ends, you won't have trade-in value to offset the cost of your next vehicle. Instead of leasing, look into purchasing a CPO vehicle, and you'll come out of the deal with a like-new car at a less-than-new car price, new car perks and peace of mind, knowing the manufacturer of the car stands behind it with a factory warranty and authorized inspection.

8. If You Still Want to Lease a Car, Know Your Money Factor

Most shoppers think leasing simply means paying the depreciation of a vehicle. That's true, but there's also a finance charge included in every lease called the money factor. This is money the dealer or automaker charges you for the privilege of leasing. Just like when you're buying a car, the interest rate on a lease can have a huge effect on your monthly payment.

9. Check Car Insurance Rates Before Buying a Vehicle

To avoid insurance-cost sticker shock, call your insurance company to get a rate quote for the vehicle you're planning to buy before signing on the dotted line. Insurance rates may be higher than expected, especially if you are buying a newer vehicle, financing a vehicle or buying the car for a young driver. A quick call to your insurance company prior to your next car purchase can help you can plan your finances accordingly.