Home > General Financial Tutorials: Managing Credit Tutorial

English | Español

BUDGETING TUTORIAL

It's fun to window shop for the car of your dreams by walking past the dealership or just seeing your dream car pass you by. However, before you get too excited about any car in particular, you should determine whether or not you can afford to get behind the wheel. The best way to do that is to figure out how a car payment might impact your budget.

TIP

Size of your car payment - Generally, your car payment should be no more than 15% to 20% of your take-home pay after first subtracting monthly payments such as credit cards and home equity loans

TIP

Extra car costs to consider - Gas, maintenance and insurance could cost you an additional $200 a month or more. Be sure to consider all costs when budgeting for your dream car



Jump to:
1. Living Within Your Means	5. Shopping Within Your Budget
2. Budget Glossary	6. Research The Right Vehicle
3. Why Budgeting Works	7. Budgeting: A Review
4. How to Develop a Budget	8. Additional Information

To view this site properly, you will need the latest Flash Plug-in.
Click here to download the Flash Player.

See if you’re an instant winner of a Exxon® Mobil® Cash Card. Also enter for a chance to win one of two Grand Prizes:

- 2009 Chevy Cobalt
- 2009 Pontiac G6

New player? Register to play.

Returning player? Login below.

Winner's List? Click below.

Finding a Vehicle That Fits Your Budget