Tips For New Car Buying |
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Tim Stevenson
5 June 2014
Buying a new car is a big decision and one that is best made with proper preparation. The more research you do before you spend your money, the better the odds that you purchase the right vehicle for your needs. No single vehicle is right for every situation.
The first step on your path to a new car is to know your purchasing power. You need to understand how much car you can afford; this price, often broken down in monthly costs, needs to include both the cost of the car as well as related expenses such as insurance, registration, and maintenance.
Once you have a budget established, you can start defining the needs you have for your new vehicle. This decision takes into account such factors as number of drivers, passengers, gas mileage, and specific comforts like leather seats. Some folks will want fuel efficiency while others may desire the ability to tow and haul large loads, such as a boat or trailer.
As you start on your research, be sure to turn to the Internet for a plethora of sites geared to help you make your decision. Find reviews, photos, and feature listings for almost any make or model. You can also search local inventory and set-up test drives with dealerships. As you identify dealers, talk to your family and friends; listen to their recommendations for specific dealers and salespersons. The experience of shopping for a car is often intimidating, so go forward armed with the best information and the best people.
When you road test a car, be certain to drive the model of car you can afford. Do not be swayed to try a more expensive model. During your test drive, replicate your own road experiences and be sure to go on city roads and the highway. Make sure you are comfortable with the car and its control. A good test drive is worth the time. You want to make the right purchase.
Once you have your model selected, you can forge ahead with making your purchase. For many buyers, this is the most stressful parts. However, the key is to gather information. The sale person's goal is to sell you the car for the Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). For you to get the best deal available you need to know the factory invoice/wholesale price and which factory rebates are available on the car. Do your research, then take the invoice/wholesale price, deduct all applicable cash rebates, and start your price negotiations at this point. If negotiating is not your strong suit, be prepared to pay more for your new vehicle.