Tips Buying Cars
From Adviceopedia
Here are a few simple tips buying cars that can save you both money and time.
Contents |
Advice and Tips Buying Cars
Know What You Want
Smart tips buying cars tell you to have an idea of what you are looking for before meeting with a salesperson. Sit down and make a list of your “needs”.
Questions to ask include:
- What type of car do I want and why? Is there a particular brand I prefer?
- How many people do I drive around? If you have a large family, you will want to look at mini vans or SUV’s with an extra/removable row.
- How often do you drive? If you drive constantly and long distances, gas mileage is more important than just driving back and forth a few blocks.
- Are there any features that are important to you? Not all cars offer the features you may want, such as a sunroof or extra storage space.
- Do you drive in a lot of snow? If the answer is “yes” you may want to look at four wheel drive vehicles.
- What is your budget?
- Do you plan to buy or lease?
- For a used car, do you want a smoke-free car? If so, make sure you ask before taking the time to look at the vehicle.
Once you have a list of what is important to you in a car, you can begin looking for vehicles that fit your criteria.
Cruise the Lots on Sunday
In some towns car lots are closed on Sundays. If this is true in your area, you can window shop without having to worry about a salesman pushing an impulse buy your way. While looking at cars, keep your needs in mind. Write down the names of the models you feel would be a good fit.
You can then go home and look up the cars online.
Check the Classifieds
If you are looking for a used car, you can often find what you want in the newspaper want ads or online ads like Craigslist. Every Sunday there is a section for used cars. Research the car before calling the owner.
Take it for a Test Drive
Once you decide on the vehicles you are interested in owning, take them for a test drive. Take along a notepad to keep notes about what you like and don’t like. Your test drive should include both in town and interstate driving.
- How does the car feel when you are driving it? Does it shake or lurch, or is it smooth?
- Turn off the radio and listen for any sounds, like squeaks or rattles.
- Take it to an empty parking lot and test the brakes.
- In the parking lot, inspect it for scratches and rust spots. With older cars, there will be some wear, however, rust spots can cause holes and may indicate the car has not been taken care of.
Tips on Buying Used Cars
If you are looking at a used car, you will want to make sure to ask for some additional information.
- How many owners has the car had?
- Was it in any accidents?
- What problems has it had?
- Ask for a copy of the maintenance records, such as oil changes, brake repairs, new tires, and any other required maintenance
- Look at the title and make sure the person selling the car is on the title
- Take it to a third party mechanic to find out the condition of the vehicle including brakes, maintenance such as fluids and belts, and undercarriage
Avoid buying a vehicle that needs extensive repairs including both mechanical and body work.
The Price is Negotiable
Finally, once you find a vehicle you feel is the perfect fit, it’s time to look at the price. The price is almost always negotiable. You may find an exception with a car that is in high demand and has a waiting list.
Used Car
Use Kelly’s Blue Book or Edmunds to look up what the car value is. Feel free to make deductions from the price based on the condition of the car and how the owner took care of it. However, if you really want the car, be careful not to go too low where you will insult the seller.
New Car
If you are looking at a new car, call around to three car dealerships within 60 miles and ask them for their best price. You can take this price to your local dealer and see if they will beat or match it. If not, you now know who has the best price.
Other tools for negotiating include:
- Your trade-in vehicle
- Payment method (lease, pay in full cash, credit card)
- License and car title transfer fees
- Taxes
- Extra features or free maintenance services
Remember to take your time when purchasing a vehicle. These tips buying cars work best when you do not rush into making a decision.
