Getting a Great Deal on a New Car

Whether you're aiming for luxury -- or a base model -- the process of buying a new car can seem like more hassle than it's worth.

But whether you're a born negotiator or not -- we've got some tips that will hopefully turn negotiating from an art into a science -- courtesy of the Federal Citizen Information Center

What do you need to say to get the price you deserve?

Start by being confident -- something that may be easier over the phone -- and compare five or six different dealerships.

But how do you know what price is a good price?

Ask dealers to give you their offers in relation to the factory invoice price, and not the MSRP -- or manufacturer's suggested retail price.

The MSRP, usually a higher price, is just what the manufacturer thinks you should pay.

Dealers also get rebates and incentives from manufacturers -- you should find out what these are and try to get dealers to subtract that from what you're paying.

So here are your car buying basics:

1) Be a confident shopper

2) Research prices and rebates

And even if keeping track of all the numbers seems daunting -- don't panic.

3) Rely on the competitive bidding process to drive the price down to where you want it.

And, if all else fails -- there's always the buddy system: taking someone who knows more about the process than you do along for the new-car-buying ride.

For more information on everything from trade-in prices to the wisdom of extended warranty plans, click here.