IRVINE, Calif. -

A new buying guide is meant to help consumers choose a car with money in mind.

zAutos last week introduced its online car-buying guide, 10 Simple Steps to Sanity, which outlines 10 critical points for consumers to consider when purchasing a vehicle.

From formulating a budget to safety ratings to warranties, zAutos said the guide details the financial pros and cons of buying or leasing a car, and explores the decision of new versus used cars, to help consumers decide how to find a car that fits their finances.

Once a purchase decision is made, the guide also offers strategic tips to help consumers negotiate the best price at a dealership, find vehicle financing, or maximize the trade-in value of their old vehicles.

The Car Buying Guide details key topics to bring up at the negotiation table, the company said, suggests the best times to buy and offers tips on how to lower long-term vehicle ownership costs.

For more information, visit zAutos.com.