Buying a car can feel like stepping into a game where the rules aren’t clear or fair.

From financing terms to trade-in values and dealer fees, the process is packed with pressure and fine print. Whether it’s your first car or your fifth, it’s easy to second-guess if you’re getting a fair deal—or just getting sold. Friends and family might offer advice, but unless they’ve bought recently or know the industry, their tips only go so far. So what do you do when you’re ready to buy, but want someone in your corner who knows the numbers, the tactics, and what to watch out for?