I don’t know shit about cars help me?

Hey! I need to buy a new car fast and have no idea what I’m doing and how not to get ripped off. Can someone give me some tips?

I want something that will last a while and be low maintenance. Fuel efficient would be great. Needs to be able to kind of drive in the snow but I guess snow tires can go on any vehicle? I normally have had Subaru which have been great, I guess? But I don’t really know how to compare. Used car under $20,000. Tips? I had a partner in the car industry who normally helped me with this process so I’ve never just gone to a dealership to buy one. You just walk in and pick one? Or research who in town has the exact car you want? HELP PLEASE