Mentors in the L.A. area offer assistance with resources for buying and financing a car, and getting reasonably priced insurance.  Contact Us  to connect with a mentor.

This is an immediate expense because a car is needed for job interviews. It’s hard to qualify for a car loan without a job.  And it’s hard to get a job without a car.

With limited finances and all the expenses of getting established, consider making a small down payment and financing the rest

If you have no credit, you will need a co-signer for a car loan.  This is usually a family member or close friend.  A co-signer is someone who agrees to become financially responsible with you for payment, and whose credit will be marred in the event of default.  The co-signer’s name should appear with yours on your auto insurance policy.  Be sure to get good insurance coverage to protect the co-signer’s liability in case of an accident or claim.  If you have no one to co-sign, the transition network will try to assist you.

When buying a used car have a reputable mechanic do a thorough check of the car. This will cost from $150 to $200.  Also check on the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) via CarFax.  Their records will indicate if the car is a lemon, been in a flood or accident, etc.

A source for car loans is the Barnone web site.  They supposedly can help you even if you have NO credit.

There is a considerable amount of information on the Internet about car buying, both new & used. They provide information about individual car models, pricing, cost of operation, financing, insurance, as well as give guidance on how to select a car and things to watch out for.    

SmartCarGuide Lists 20 steps to buying a car. An independent source of information. Found some very good and helpful advice on this site.

Carbuyingtips.Com is a helpful site that gives suggestions and advice for buying used/new cars, insurance, extended warranties, etc. It also has links to all 50 state's Department of Motor Vehicle web sites.

CarMax  Large network with outlets in the LA area.  Offers 5-day full refund, 30 day warranty with options for extended warranty, and has a large service network. Prices seem good. Has loan and car insurance links.

Microsoft CarPoint Excellent source of information on car buying. Has a helpful car loan calculator to determine the full cost of a loan and has links to financial institutions for arranging a loan. Also has links for obtaining car insurance.

Auto Trader Large network of auto dealers and private party listings. Seemed to have the most listings for used cars but be cautious when dealing directly with private parties or car dealers. Includes links for financial and insurance information.

Woman Motorist a car buying site recommended as being "the best car site I've seen" by a Tranassist supporter.

Consumer Reports Provides information on different car models, recommends which cars tested best in their independent testing, provides crash test results, cost of operation, etc. Excellent  site for independent research information. Does require a $3.95 monthly fee to access reports. You can also buy copies of their latest new & used car evaluations at a newsstand.

Cellular Phones Provides information on calling plans and cellular phones.