If you dread the idea of haggling face-to-face with a car salesperson, slogging from dealer to dealer or searching in vain for the exact model you want, relief might be just a few mouse clicks away. The Internet can help you find the right model, search numerous dealers’ inventories and even nail the best price.

Here are important steps CR’s experts recommend:

¢ Zero in on models. Identify some suitable models for your taste and price range by reading new-car reviews, ratings, and reliability and safety data, from sources including Consumer Reports and its Web site, www.consumerreports.org. You can compare models side-by-side online using CR’s New Car Buying Kit (available at autos.consumerreports.org). Other resources include carmakers’ own Web sites.

¢ Take a test spin. The Internet still is no substitute for a test drive. Do your best to focus on the car and its handling and not be distracted by the salesperson’s small talk. While you’re at the dealership, don’t try to negotiate a price. Instead, get an e-mail address and a phone number so that you can do so later.

¢ Go price shopping. Many carmakers’ Web sites let you configure the vehicle the way you want it, then forward the results to dealers, who can get back to you with offers. In CR’s experience, however, it’s often faster to contact dealers directly, by phone. Stress that you’re ready to buy and want dealers to give you their best price, including a complete list of any additional fees. You can find what the dealer paid for the car, as well as any rebates and factory-to-dealer incentives, at free car-pricing Web sites such as Edmunds.com. Another option is to purchase a price report for $14 from Consumer Reports New Car Price Service by calling (800) 888-8275. These reports include CR ratings and expert buying tips.

¢ Don’t give up. If you aren’t satisfied with the prices you’re offered at dealerships, don’t hesitate to phone or e-mail the dealers again, asking whether they can beat the best offer you got in the first round. If that doesn’t get you any closer, consider switching to a different model.

¢ Close the deal. Once you find an acceptable price, call the dealer to verify the numbers. Emphasize that you don’t want to see extra fees or surprises later. If you’re planning to finance, go in knowing the loan rates available elsewhere and ask the dealership for its best rate.

¢ Steer clear of these pitfalls. You can compare current car-loan rates at www.bankrate.com, and get offers from banks, credit unions and online sources such as www.eloan.com.

It’s unwise to finance a car for more than 48 months because longer-term loans come with higher interest charges. If a shorter-term, new-car loan isn’t feasible, consider buying a reliable used car instead.

And don’t succumb to the lure of leasing. Sure, leasing can give you a lower monthly payment, but you won’t own the car at the end of the lease, and you’ll pay a much higher finance charge.

Other car-shopping pitfalls include buying unnecessary add-ons. Say no to VIN (vehicle identification number) glass etching, rustproofing, fabric protection, paint sealant and extended-service plans. Ditto for any expensive extras you might never use.