It is day four of the New Year.

In January, I wrote a guest post for AskPatty.com, the premier website of automotive advice for women.

As you may have suspected, I often get asked which car to buy by friends, family and neighbors. With this question comes a response in interrogative form.

Image via actual Internet posting of this car for sale.

In the February 3, 2014 issue of Automotive News, I read editor-in-chief Keith Crain’s weekly column commenting on some aspect of the auto industry. I was pleased to learn that Crain recognizes just how different today’s automotive retail landscape is.

Last night, my husband and I were at our friends’ house for dinner when they mentioned they would be venturing out today in search of a new car for the wife. My ears perked up upon hearing such news, mostly because I had a slew of information to prep them before they made their purchase.

I checked in with my friends who were buying the Nissan Murano over the weekend. They did heed my advice by not purchasing their car on a rainy day, but I can’t give myself all of the credit. They walked away from the purchase because of a horrible experience at the dealership.

I’m convinced that there’s a special type of anxiety for new car shoppers. There’s something about the anticipation of stepping foot onto that dealer lot that makes customers incredibly nervous. I have good news for you, new car seekers – you don’t have to be timid.

In today’s connected world, consumers are buying nearly everything online and without hesitation. Companies like Amazon.com have transformed how we purchase products, giving instant-gratification-thirsty Americans what we want at the push of a button or a click of the mouse.

Last month, after a delicious taco lunch with a good friend and fellow automotive enthusiast, I decided to finally list my 2007 BMW 33