Buying a car is a major financial decision, but many buyers don't understand how the process really works. In this episode of Marci Talks Money (and Life), I talk with Dominic Genova, former auto dealer and author of Don't Get Taken for a Ride, about car buying, financing, trade-ins, dealer fees, and negotiating. Dom shares practical advice for consumers, including the four C's of credit, why you should shop the price rather than the payment, how to evaluate financing and trade-in values, what to watch for with rebates and dealer fees, and the questions to ask before signing a deal. We also talk about leasing vs. buying, reviews, and knowing when to walk away.

Oregon requires translated retail contract disclosures and compliance support for consumers.

As America’s auto debt nears $1.7 trillion, repossessions are reaching levels not seen since the Great Recession. Inside an industry at the front line of the country’s affordability crisis.