When finance is involved, the road to car ownership can be full of potholes. Here's a few tips to help smooth the ride.

first of all get your loan from someone you can trust, and get it conditionally approved before you start looking. You'll have better bargaining power and you won't be tempted into a loan that's not right for you.

• Be aware that finance from a car dealer or finance company can land you with higher interest rates and a steep exit fee if you pay your loan off early.
• If the car you want to buy is brand new, most good lenders will offer you a lower interest rate.
• Some lenders demand a deposit up front. Others will offer you 100%.
• If you're buying privately, get a REVS check (or equivalent in your area) to help ensure no previous owners still owe money on the car.
• Make sure you arrange fully comprehensive motor insurance - there's nothing worse than paying off a car you don't own anymore¹.
• It might seem obvious, but make sure you're not paying too much for your car - shop around.