There are a lot of emotions involved in purchasing a new car, and fear is not an exception. This is quite natural – purchasing a vehicle is the second largest and longest financial commitment, right after real estate. And the price is not the only issue – the process of shopping is far more complex than simply deciding on the make and model. You need to be aware of all the different features and modern cars are full of surprises.
Some will go for used cars – this can be a logical step if you want to evade the lease as well as your budget is not big enough for that new car investment. But, however, you'll probably need more time to research and compare various makes and models. No two used vehicles are identical, which can bring an entirely new degree of anxiety.
Whether you’re buying a used car or a new one, here are some things to consider that will help you reach a good deal without anxiety and stress attached:
Make The Most Out of Your Budget
If you're purchasing a new car there's not much you can do about the price except focus on features, and we'll come to that later. But when purchasing a used one, you should pay attention to incentives such as price cuts, low-interest loans, and offer rebates. At the end of the model year, many dealers or manufacturers want to clear out the current inventory making room for new models, so this is the best time to buy. There's also an option of trade-ins if you want to get rid of your old car when purchasing a new one. But make sure you negotiate the deal on the new car first, and keep in mind that selling that old one on your own could get you more income.
Examine The Interior
This goes for both used and new cars. You need to check all the features and see if they match your personal preference. Is there leather or fabric seats? What kind of entertainment system is there? Is it still stuck within the era of AM and FM radio or does it have an XM satellite radio system and multiple screens? Although not all features are about personal preference – additionally you need to think practical. The most crucial factor lies in available safety features – there are many of them which have been put into cars over the years, and a quantity of which we take for granted today. Although some have become a standard, they're not always contained in older cars. Airbags, functioning seatbelts and brakes are a must, but there's so much more that may ensure your safety on the road.
Pay Focus on Car History
Car history is something to consider when buying a used car. You've examined the interior and scanned the exterior and everything appears spotless. But you shouldn't jump to conclusions – you'll still don't know if the vehicle has already established a rough past. That's why it is best to run a vehicle history report with companies such as AutoCheck or CARFAX. All you need is the car's identification number (VIN) and if the dealer is reluctant to provide it, which means you need to stay away from that car.
Don't Skip around the Inspection
The fact that you've run a vehicle history report does not mean that the car hasn't been in an unreported accident. That's why it's imperative to have the car inspected to ensure the vehicle is what it states be. The mechanic must examine everything thoroughly – exterior and interior. You shouldn't skip this step since it is a crucial one to make, ensuring you are making a good investment.
Don't Forget Insurance and Warranty
In most cases, you'll need proof of insurance before the dealer will agree to sell you the car. If you're buying from a person you'll also need to be insured before you decide to drive it. This step is easy to forget and could result in unnecessary complications. You also have to think about the warranty, especially if you're buying a car older than four years. When you are aware that the car is no longer covered within warranty you can buy an extended one and evade being nervous about future repairs. This is particularly important when the car has an 'AS IS' sign, meaning the dealer is not legally responsible for any damage after the car is driven in the lot. Be sure to research the best warranty options and read extended car warranty reviews for extended protection.
Considering all this will not only help you save money – right away or in the long run – however it will also ensure you'll buy a car which you won't sell a month later. Be prudent, be patient, and you could end up behind the wheel of the vehicle for many years to come.
Featured Photo by William Krause on Unsplash
