People who are considering their next automotive purchase may be looking at used cars in New Jersey, but with the recent Cash for Clunkers program, it may be better to start searching sooner rather than later because of supply concerns.

Used cars have given many less affluent families the ability to have more freedom in their activities without the need to rely on public transportation and work their schedules around infrequent trains or buses.

“I’ve been able to keep my youngest one at New Generations and Head Start. It enables us to go to the grocery store … I can work late and not have to worry about walking after dark,” Sheila Ratliff, a mother, told the Morganton News Herald.

And as the Cash for Clunkers program destroyed nearly 700,000 vehicles, buyers considering used cars in New Jersey could start looking now if they want a similar change in lifestyle.

But choosing the right one can be a confusing issue for people, since there are many models available on the market.

It may help to start off with what needs the vehicle should address, such as transporting children or being comfortable for a long commute. Fuel efficiency and maintenance needs could also affect one’s decision because of the monthly costs they influence.

In New York and New Jersey, all-wheel drive may be one consideration for prospective owners, but it may mean purchasing a vehicle larger than one’s needs.

Once those questions are answered, one will want to establish how much he or she can afford to pay each month, including gas and insurance, as well as regular maintenance costs.

Using both of those sets of information, a buyer can then determine the right class of vehicle, such as a crossover for a small family, and use the price constraints to pick several options among used cars in New Jersey.

It may seem like doing homework, but “most shoppers have difficulty keeping up with all of the vehicles manufacturers introduce and the changes they are making to their older vehicles, so it’s important to do your research,” writes Philip Reed, Edmunds.com senior consumer advice editor.