Next to a house, a vehicle is often a person's largest purchase -- and Call 4 Action reporter Meghan Jones has some tips on how to get the best deal.

Think about it as negotiating a business contract. Don't rely on others to tell you what you need to know. Ask yourself how you will use the car, then do your own research.

Look at the vehicle's fuel efficiency and check out the options. Is it rear-wheel, all-wheel, front-wheel or two-wheel drive? That's particularly important if you plan on driving in snow or cold weather.

Know what you can afford to spend before you go to the dealer, and know what the dealer paid for the car.

Ask for the dealer invoice to know where to begin price negotiations.

"For some people, it will be the largest purchase that they are daeling with in their life, so you should ask your questions and get answers," consumer law attorney Susanne Kimberland said.

Research any manufacturer incentives, such as rebates or special financing, and know which ones you are eligible for. Don't depend on the dealer to tell you about them.

"A lot of it is broken down by region and particular times of the year, so you need to understand the information clearly," Kimberland said.

Finally, test-drive the exact vehicle you want. You can't walk away from the deal after you drive off in that automobile.

"Test-driving another vehicle that's similar doesn't mean the vehicle you're getting is going to work in the same manner," Kimberland said.

In Pennsylvania, you have three days to get out of a contract for the purchase of consumer products. Automobiles are not included among those products. As soon as you sign for the car, it's yours.

Auto shows can be good places to begin. Many shows offer incentives to people who are ready to buy.

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To do some research on new cars, check out the links on ThePittsburghChannel.com's Automotive page.

Also, try these Web sites:

Vehix.com

Edmunds.com

LemonLaw.com

KBB.com (Kelley Blue Book)