PriceProtect™
DriveShield™
GarageGuard™
Services
Insurance
Car Insurance
Compare Car Insurance with Jerry
Jerry’s Expert Advice
Car Insurance Estimates
Home & Renters Insurance
Renters Insurance
Loans
Car Loan
Compare Car Loans with Jerry
Jerry's Expert Advice
Car Loan Guides
Repairs
Car Repair Estimates
Repair Estimates for Popular Services
Advice
Read Car Content
Browse Jerry Car Advice
Check Out Expert Car QnA
Learn About How We Create Content
Jerry Data & Research
What do I need to know before purchasing a vehicle?
I'm purchasing a vehicle for the first time. Is there anything I need to know before I buy one? I want to make sure I don't get ripped off.
Emily Maracle · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
“
Buying a car for the first time
is a big step. But you can do a few things to make the process run smoothly.Like with
car insurance
, you always want to shop around. It’s important to see what various dealerships and sellers are offering. You should also decide in advance how much you can afford for a vehicle. Generally speaking, you should follow the 20/10/4 rule, which dictates that you should:- Make a 20% down payment
- Don’t pay more than 10% of your gross monthly income on the vehicle
- Get a loan for four years or less
If you do find a vehicle you like, be sure you ask plenty of questions and find out about the vehicle’s history (if it’s used(. If anything seems off or makes you uncomfortable, don’t move forward. You can always find another car. It’s very important to be comfortable with the large purchase you’re making
After you find a vehicle you love, don’t forget about car insurance. With
Jerry
as your ally, you can compare rates from dozens of carriers to find the coverage you need at the best possible price.”View full answer
- Gregory R.
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance
You Might Also Be Interested
Read Advice From Car Experts At Jerry
What Others Are Asking
Browse More Content
Insurance for Your Car
Insurance in Your State
Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance
No long forms
No spam or unwanted phone calls
Quotes from top insurance companies
