Don't Get Taken Every Time

Washington Post consumer writer Remar Sutton presents an updated edition of his popular how-to guide for buying and leasing vehicles. Readers looking for the best deal in town will learn how to select a vehicle, whether to buy or lease, the best time to buy, how to finance, and more.

For the Don't Get Taken Every Time material to be offered online. "Dollars and Non-Sense: Or, What You'd Better Know About Financing, Even If You Pay Cash"

Your Credit History Isn't What You Think It Is * Things that may lower your credit rating * How some financing sources may deliberately lower your credit rating * How to check out your credit report

What Are Your Financing Sources? The pros and cons of various sources of financing including: * Home equity lines of credit * Credit unions * Banks * Online financing companies and services * "Captive" finance companies such as GMAC, Ford Motor Credit Corp. or Toyota Credit * Subprime lending sources such as small loan houses and Buy Here Pay Here operations * Title loan operations

How 10% APR can beat 0% APR

Should You Buy Credit Life or Disability Insurance? * What are these products? * Who needs them? * Better alternatives

Finding the Cheapest and Best Loan Step-by-step guide for shopping and comparing financing sources to find the cheapest and best loan for you.

Tips for Protecting Yourself If You Are Paying Cash