Any potential car buyer knows that looking for a new car is not that simple. Furthermore, different people embark on automobile selection in different ways. There are those who ask others for advice and opinions, those who thoroughly research each model in their price range, and still others who impulsively buy the first good-looking car that catches their eye.
let the search begin
When looking for a new car, there are many factors to consider. The most obvious one to most is price. Ideally, any potential purchase should not exceed one's financial capacity, unless you don't mind an unexpected visit from your neighborhood repo-man. Another equally (if not more) important factor is style. Every man can see himself in one of many dream machines that are on the market.The trick is to combine the desire for sleek and sporty good looks, but still have enough money left over to pay for gas. This might sound easy enough; however, buyers quickly realize that it's highly unlikely that they will be able to pay Corolla prices and travel in Porsche style.
stick to your needs
Therefore early on, the decision must be made to prioritize what one wants from their new car. The consumer should list their needs for an ideal price, size, look, and safety record before walking into any showroom.It is important to accurately assess one's needs and requirements for a new car, be it family accommodation, economic value, reliability or flashy hot looks. Once a buyer has a good approximation of what he is looking for, it is then time to match up available models with those consumer ideals and look at each one systematically.
Word of mouth may play a key role in any buyer's prospects, having heard of a friend's satisfaction with their new car or through surveys of consumer reports and other automotive magazines. But however informative people's testimonials may be, there is no substitute for a personal examination of the cars you are considering.
put it to the test
This hands-on evaluation should include multiple test drives on city and highway roads in various weather conditions -- if possible -- so as to really get a feel for the car that you may be living with for the next while.An inquiry into the cost of upkeep and maintenance of the prospective cars should also be conducted. Included with this is the price to fill the gas tank, regular tune-ups, minor repairs, and possible replacement of parts. On this point, it follows that the purchase of an extended warranty is usually an intelligent move. In addition, the resale value of the particular car should be looked into, as some cars hold their value much better than others, even after several years.
Once the car has been admired and subsequently chosen, the next step is to weigh the options of purchasing, leasing or financing. This decision ultimately depends on how much money one has available for this sizeable purchase.
For instance, if the buyer is paid weekly or biweekly, and lives from month to month, a lease may seem more convenient. Whereas someone who earns a substantial annual salary may choose to place a large down payment on the car and pay the difference over a few years.
Depending on interest rates, these options are often more viable for most people than slapping down $20,000 to $30,000 cash. Like any purchase, there are often hidden expenses to a new car, such as preparation fees, licensing fees and automobile insurance.
don't be a sucker
While these must be factored into the final cost of the new car, there is still the matter of little extras that are suggested but not needed. It is important to be wary of car salesmen who try to sell things to unsuspecting first-time car buyers, that are really unnecessary but may seem important.Such "must-haves" include, but are not limited to, expensive rust proofing treatments, fancy wheel covers, superior sound systems, factory alarms, expensive performance tires, block heaters, and extra insurance.
Buying a car should not be a speedy process. The purchase should involve time and research. A person who goes to one dealership and drives off the lot in their new car that same day will probably have paid more for that car than if he had taken his time, shopped around and found a good deal involving a blend of desired options at a reasonable price.
questions you should ask:
- What is the financing cost/options? Compare the invoice price, the sticker price, ask about rebates, money down, etc.
- What are the options available with the car?
- What are the available colors?
- Delivery cost?
- How does the car perform?
- What about the warranty?
- What are the given auto's competing models?
Don't be shy about asking questions, after all, you're going to have an endearing relationship with whichever car you select, so you might as well make it worth your while.
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