About to buy your first car?

It doesn't have to be as complicated as you think. 

Of course, you know the car-buying basics — do your research, take a test drive, don't spend more than you can afford. But at Denny Menholt Billings Nissan, we've got the insider knowledge you really need to help you make the best purchase possible.

Read on for our seven secret tips for first-time car buyers in Billings.

1. You Don't Have to Buy Used

Most first-time buyers think they can't afford a new vehicle.

They're wrong.

Even if you have a meager bank account or bad credit in Billings, you can still buy a brand-new car. In fact, during our Bottom Line Summer Event going on now through August 31, you can even enjoy 0% APR financing for 72 months* — plus buy with $0 down and make no payments for 90 days!

Sounds too good to be true? It's not. To get started on the road to buying a brand-new car, just fill out our finance application online. All credit applications are accepted!

2. If You Have a Job, You Have Credit

Here's another shocker: even if you think you've got bad credit, if you've got a job, you could still get a great auto loan in Billings.

Take advantage of our Bottom Line Summer Event to get the credit you need and the car you deserve. You can even get a full factory warranty! Contact our finance department to learn more.

3. There Are Two Types of Payment to Consider

Too often, first-time car buyers consider only one type of payment when trying to decide what they can afford. But both of these are equally important to calculate before buying:

• Down payment: How much are you willing to pay right now? If you can, try to put down at least 20% of the vehicle's purchase price up-front.
• Monthly payment: How much can you afford to pay toward your auto loan per month? Don't commit to too much — experts say your total monthly debt load shouldn't exceed 36% of your gross monthly income.

Don't know where to begin? Our free car payment calculator can help you automatically estimate your buying power or your monthly payment. Try it today!

4. Choosing the Right Billings Car Dealership Is Crucial

Just five years ago, car shoppers used to visit five or more dealerships before buying a vehicle. Today, they only visit one.

At Denny Menholt Billings Nissan, we're specially equipped to handle first-time car buyers. Along with excellent auto financing for all credit situations, we offer a huge selection of both new and used vehicles, plus full parts and service departments!

When you're ready to come see us, check out our hours and directions. (We promise we're not pushy!)

5. There's an App for That!

lf you're a millennial, chances are you're already using your cell phone browser to research Billings cars for sale. But did you know there is also a wealth of car-buying apps you can download?

Apps from reputable sources like Edmunds.com, Cars.com, and Kelley Blue Book can help you learn more while on the go. Keep them handy during your visit to the dealership, so you can ask questions on the spot!

6. There's More to Your Purchase than Meets the Eye

Too many car buyers (newbies or not) overlook some pretty important stuff when buying a vehicle. But you're spending thousands of dollars here — don't you think you deserve to know everything about your purchase?

During your test drive, be sure to ask your salesperson about these not-so-minor details:

• Safety recalls
• Accident history
• Service records
• Hidden fees
• Additional warranties

7. You Have More Power than You Think You Do

First-time car buyers have a tendency to second-guess themselves.

Don't be one of them.

Remember, you're the one buying a vehicle here. Don't let a slimy salesperson try to bulldoze you with their own agenda or look down on you for being naive. (Of course, if you pick a respected place like Denny Menholt Billings Nissan, you won't have to worry about slimy salespeople at all.)

Armed with these seven secret tips and a Billings car dealership you can actually trust, you should be able to find your dream car — and even enjoy the process along the way!

Find Your First Car at Denny Menholt Billings Nissan!

We hope we've given you some helpful tips on how to buy your first car.

Now that you know what to do, start shopping for Billings cars for sale!

Remember, with our Bottom Line Summer Event going on now, you can buy a new vehicle with no down payment and no payments for 90 days — plus get 0% APR for 72 months. Yes, even if this is your first car!

But hurry — financing offers expire August 31!

*Financing for 72 months available on select models. See dealer for eligible models. $13.89 per $1,000 financed, regardless of down payment. All offers with qualified credit. Offers expire 8/31/16.