GARDINER — State regulators Friday announced the publication for residents of a new auto buying and financing guide specially designed for upcoming Presidents’ Day sales.

The 32-page booklet —  The Downeaster Common Sense Guide: Automobile Buying and Financing — was put together by the Bureau of Consumer Credit Protection, an agency within the Maine Department of Professional and Financial Regulation, and it is available online or paper copy, free to Maine residents.

Among the topics covered in the publication are:

* Determining how much vehicle you can afford;

* Understanding how to conduct auto buying research;

* Learning how to check your credit reports before applying for an auto loan;

* Determining the lowest annual percentage rate, or APR, for your vehicle loan;

* Understanding why “no money down” financing can be an expensive choice;

* Learning how to negotiate the best price for your new vehicle and trade-in;

* Preparing yourself for the “closing room” at the auto dealership; and

* Evaluating the pros and cons of add-ons such as extended warranty programs and credit insurance.

An online copy of the auto buying guide, and several other Downeaster Common Sense financial publications, can be found at www.credit.maine.gov by clicking “Publications.” Copies can also be ordered by calling the Bureau of Consumer Credit Protection at 1-800-332-8529 (toll-free in Maine) or 624-8527.