Before You Buy a Car, You Should Review Your Credit Report and Credit Score.

The two will be important tools in negotiating with car dealers. The credit report discloses if you've paid your bills on time, overextended yourself, have derogatories such as past dues, judgments, charge offs, liens, etc. Imagine it being a report card of your financial history. If you don't have a wad of cash from a rich uncle, it's your credit score that will determine how much you pay for that car.

Credit reports are basically historical information.

The credit score is an analysis of all the contents. Since scores range from 300 to 800, the closer your score is to 800, the better. Your loan rate will be higher if your credit score is low. You'll pay more interest. It's no wonder people with higher credit scores pay less out-of-pocket costs and lower costs over the life of their loans. This is their reward for being responsible with their debts.

To Get Started, Log Into Your Computer and Go To MyFICO.com.

This website has been set up to sell credit reports, credit scores and identity theft prevention products. These products are in high demand these days. The best deal appears to be the standard product for 1 fico score and one bureau report for $12.95. This is a deal since most credit bureaus sell their credit reports and credit score separately--costing you more money.

To Purchase Your Credit Report From This Site, You Will Need to Input Personal Information, Including Your Social Security Number.

It's best to review any security and privacy policies on any website before purchasing your credit report. Take mental note of company logos like Experian, Equifax and Transunion. They add credibility to this website. If possible, find out if your payment information will be encrypted (scrambled), before it reaches the intended parties. Always print out transaction information for your records.

The Products on MyFICO.com are Offered by Suze Orman.

Orman is currently the personal finance editor for CNBC and one of the most trusted advisors in the financial and personal credit field these days. The rest of her bio is listed for your reference. She explains valuable credit information under "Credit Education" at the top of the website.

Are You Now Ready to Buy a Car? Your Credit Score SAYS...

Not quite: You might be in the driver's seat when you receive the credit report and credit score. If your score is close to 800, say 700 or above, you should get a good rate. If not, decide if you can wait, seek out credit repair and get it as good as it can be. By doing this, you won't be vulnerable to lazy salesmen who push bad rates on everyone that walks through the door. Don't go for it. Find out the best financing they can offer and compare it with what is offered at your bank and credit union. Your goal is to make the best purchase you can including price, rate and terms.