(October 13, 2012) SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Shoppers who know the right path to car buying can seal a deal faster than they ever imagined, even in as little as a few hours, says Edmunds.com. And while Edmunds highly recommends that shoppers take as much time as they need to make such a big purchase, Senior Consumer Advice Editor Philip Reed shows how buyers in a pinch can easily start and complete the process in less than a day.

"Even though a car is a big-ticket purchase, you can do it quickly and with little stress," says Reed. "Break the task into the steps listed here and you'll save time and money and still get the best car for you."

Assuming you already know which model you want, Edmunds.com lays out the following three steps to expedite the buying process and still get a good deal on a new car:

Step 1: Locate Your Car

Use Edmunds.com's New Car Inventory page or a local dealership's own inventory tool on its Web site to find the color, trim level and options you want. Call the dealership and ask to speak with the Internet manager to make sure the car is still on the lot.

Step 2: Make a Deal

Ask the Internet manager for the dealership's best price and see if any incentives or rebates are available. Hang up the phone and compare these figures to the Edmunds.com True Market Value price of the car.

If the price quote you get is at TMV or below, you're in good shape; if it's higher, call back to negotiate a figure that meets the TMV price. If the Internet manager won't budge, contact other dealerships in your area or a neighboring city. And before you agree to any salesperson's offer ask for an "out-the-door" price that includes all taxes and fees. Make sure the fees are legitimate using Edmunds.com's guide.     

Step 3: Arrange Delivery

Before you say yes to the deal, say that there's one condition: The dealership has to deliver the car to you. The salesperson should oblige and arrange to have the car driven to your home or office. Inspect the car to verify it is the year, make and model you want and make sure there are no dents or scratches and all the equipment that's supposed to be there has been included.

Next, review the contract. Make sure the amount matches what you were given as an "out-the-door" price and that the down payment and monthly payment is exactly what you expected. Assuming all is correct, you will give the Internet manager your payment and he will give you the keys to your new car.

Click here for more details and additional tips on how to pull off a new car purchase in just one day.