What You Need to Know Before Car Shopping Today

CARS.COM — It will feel like spring in much of the country this weekend, and that could bring out new-car fever for a lot consumers. They'll be looking for something new to plant in the driveway as well as in the flower beds. If the fever grips you, here is some help with things you should consider:

Related: More Car-Buying News

What car should I buy? That depends on a lot of factors, but our reviews can help. Check out our take on some of the hottest sellers:

Pickup trucks: GMC Canyon Denali
SUVs: Toyota Highlander Hybrid, Chevrolet Equinox, Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro, Land Rover Range Rover Sport
Family sedans: Kia Forte, Toyota Corolla Vs. Honda Civic
Fuel sippers: Honda Clarity Fuel Cell
Sports cars: Ford Focus RS, Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

Anything I should wait for? The redesigned 2018 Toyota Camry hits dealers late this summer, and Ford has some updates on the F-150 coming this fall.

Which cars have the best deals right now? Check out our top deals for March. As always, your discounts may vary, so check with your dealer for specifics.

• Discount-heavy SUVs include the Nissan Murano, Jeep Cherokee and Jeep Patriot.
• If you're shopping family sedans, big incentives exist on the Camry, Altima and Ford Fusion. Or check out the Nissan Maxima, a more-upscale alternative with significant deals this month. 
• For something more affordable, compact sedans such as the Corolla and Nissan Sentra have factory incentives, too.

Should I buy new or used? Read up on the pros and cons of each. If you go used, review our used-car buyers' checklist and consider whether you want a certified pre-owned car.

How much can I afford? Read our primer.

Should I finance, lease or pay cash? That depends, but this might help you decide.

How do I get the best lease rate? Bone up on common lease terminology, plus our tips.

How do I get the best financing rate? Our game plan lays out some advice. While you're at it, here's what you need to know about auto loans and what you'll need to get one.

Anything I shouldn't do when I'm at the dealer? Yep. Avoid these pitfalls.

Should I get an extended warranty? That depends. Here's what you need to know.

How do I sell or trade in my old car? Learn how to prep your car before you sell it to a dealer, how to trade it in and how to deal with taxes and other considerations. If you still owe money on your old car, read this. Finally, if you want to sell it private party, here's how to create the picture-perfect ad and how to seal the deal.