Purchasing a used car is a major investment, which is why so many drivers spend time and energy scouring over all of their options to find the best possible fit. Not only do they have to search for the right vehicle, but they also have to examine all possibilities regarding the loans and financing of the car. Unfortunately, some motorists have more work to do than others, and they must focus on building their credit before taking the keys to a ride. 

The first step toward maximizing your buying power is knowing your credit score. You should know where you stand so you can assess what type of loans and interest rates are available. If you find that your score isn't exactly where you want it to be, however, you can continue to work to improve your financial reputation. 

You should also start building up a savings that can be used as a down payment. If you can provide approximately 20 to 25 percent of the purchase price, you'll be in better shape to earn a top loan with attractive interest rates. 

There may be an instance where you feel like you need to prove yourself to get a better auto loan. In this case, consider purchasing a small item and financing it through a short-term, formal loan. This gives you an opportunity to build positive credit and shows potential lenders that you can be trusted. 

Once you've built up good credit, you can start shopping for the right used car. A great place to start is at NJ State Auto Auction, which has a wide variety of vehicles to consider as well as a financing department. The experts on hand are available to help you find auto loans that match your budget while also ensuring you're getting the best interest rates possible.