Do you dream of owning a car but fear that it's just not possible? Do you worry you'll either spend a fortune or end up with a lemon, clunker or jalopy? Dipping your toe into the tumultuous waters of car shopping can be overwhelming. Fortunately, with the right knowledge and a little foresight, you'll find that taking the plunge into the world of car ownership is easier than you thought.

The important thing to keep in mind when trying to find used cars is that not all cars are created equal. Certain makes and models are known for being both cost-effective and reliable. Honda is a name you'll  hear frequently in reliability discussions, as USA Today reported the 2011 Fit, CR-V and Element models all making the cut as some of the most reliable three-year-old cars according to J.D. Power. Toyota's industry-famous reliability also makes for a good choice; its 2004–2007 model Prius was reported by Consumer Reports to be one of the best small cars under $10,000. Its fuel efficiency (44 mpg) also makes it a compelling money-saving choice. 

Once you've chosen the right car, basic preventative maintenance can go a long way in extending the life of your car. Edmunds outlined how basic procedures from oil changes to tire rotation can keep your car on the road for longer.  

You'll also find yourself saving money when it comes to insurance. Insure.com's list of cheapest cars to insure includes many of the same models across multiple years. Safety and reliability go a long way in saving you cash in the insurance market, and knowing which vehicles are better for your wallet can make a big difference in the bottom line.

Choosing a reliable used car from New Jersey State Auto Auction can make your dreams of car ownership possible. The lot has hundreds of Carfax-certified vehicles and an in-house financing department to help make sure you can afford the car, truck or van that's right for you.