Know the fair market price of your car before you walk onto the lot. RELATED LINKS VIDEO TIP: Buying a Car

For a great many Americans, just the thought of having to sit across from an auto salesman and haggle over the price of a new car is enough to inspire feelings of terror. No matter what we do or say, it seems, we always end up paying more than we should. It doesn't have to be this way. Armed with a little information and confidence, you can come out of the process feeling like a winner, and get the car you want for a fair price.

Rob Willman is a car salesman at Carmax in Carrollton, Texas. He's also an auto reporter for the Automotive Satellite Television Network, and offers his advice for getting the car you want at a price you feel comfortable paying:

• Homework. According to Willman, purchasing a car is the most important decision you can make next to buying a house, so it's important to do your homework. The Internet is a great place to start. Using auto pricing websites, you can find out what kind of car you want, how much it should cost, what options are available, even how much your trade in is worth. Armed with this information, you'll be able to negotiate from a much stronger position.

• Good months to shop. Willman suggests shopping for a car in either October or December. In October, dealers are trying to unload their old models to make room for the new ones. In December, they're trying to meet those end-of-the-year quotas and might be more flexible on the price.

• In the office. Once you get into the salesman's office and start talking numbers, keep your eyes on the prize. Know exactly what features you want ahead of time and don't get sidetracked by expensive aftermarket items and packages. Willman also advises buyers to consider several car models. If you lock yourself into one type of car, it can work against you when negotiating.

• Interest rates. It's a good idea to bring along your credit report to make sure you're getting the best interest rate available. You can also go to a credit union before you buy a car and see if you can get a better interest rate than the dealership can offer.

• Trade-in. If you're planning to trade in your old vehicle, Willman suggests that you agree upon a sales price on your new vehicle before you even mention the trade in. This will get you to get the best price for both cars.

• Walk away. And remember- you have the ultimate power in the negotiation because you can simply call off the deal. As long as the salesman knows you're willing to walk out the door, you're in a position of strength. Sometimes you actually do have to walk away- but Willman is certain that the salesman will give you a call if there's any chance of a better deal.