I am about to buy my first car, it'll be used. I've never bought a car before, previously my parents always bought new cars, and it would be a few days or a week from the day they do the paperwork until the dealer has the car ready. Is this the same with used cars? Do I have to wait a few days for the dealer to get things together, or can I drive away the same day I go see the dealer? Are there any things I should look out for when buying a used car? I am bringing my uncle and dad along so I won't get screwed, but some advice would help. The cars I am looking at are only a few years old so I don't think it should be a problem...I've test drove a few and narrowed it down to these cars....04 TSX04 G35 coupe05 350z02-04 330ciI am so excited, thanks to those who answer.

Even for a new car (unless the dealer has to order it or have it brought in) you should be able to take your car home with you. Depending on how much prep work is involved (washing, cleaning windows, etc) and how busy the dealer is, you may be able to take the car immediately or you may be asked to come back in a couple of hours. One thing that MAY hold you up is credit verification. If you have never had a car loan or have shaky credit, it may take the dealer some time to get your loan approved by a finance company. Generally you will not be allowed to take possession of the car until your credit has been approved and all the i's dotted and the t's crossed on your paperwork.I would also recommend doing your homework on pricing before you get to the dealership. Check out Kelly Blue Book kbb.com, edmunds.com and nada.com to research the price range for the various cars you are looking at.One final thing to consider in your budget is your insurance costs - if you are a young driver (25 or under) you are going to fall in a more expensive insurance bracket and the cars that you are looking at are more expensive cars to insure. I'd have some kind of idea of price before you get your mind set on a car that insurance pushes out of your budget. Good luck

As long as you can pay for it, and have valid insurance, you can take it home with you unless something needs to be done to the car, but if it's on the lot, it should be ready to rip! A word of advice, bringing your dad and uncle along may seem like a great idea, but try to do it yourself if you're paying for it. If you do your research and and are confident, you shouldn't need someone to hold your hand, or how are you going to learn. Also, deal like a man, where your word is gold, don't jerk salesmen around, be fair, and you will do fine. Good Luck.