Most folks think that car buying is not a lot of fun. While it’s great to get yourself into a new vehicle, it takes a lot of time and strategy to get it right. By heeding the information that follows, you can make sure the car buying process is enjoyable, rather than miserable.
Prior to going shopping for a new vehicle, you must be aware of your needs. How much can you spend? Will you need to tote a big family around? Is fuel economy a particular concern? Do you want a sedan or minivan? Jot down all the things you want, and take the list along so you are not likely to forget any.
Never succumb to the salesperson’s tactics by agreeing to purchase a vehicle priced beyond your budget. Many people are smooth-talked into buying sports cars because the salesman says they would look good in it. Remember that the salesman wants his commission!
Always negotiate the price of a vehicle. This number is not an accurate reflection of what each dealer believes it can get from you. If you aren’t a good negotiator, bring a good negotiator with you. You need to have an idea of the right price ahead of time.
Figure out your budget and then go to see the dealer — in that order. Don’t let the dealer talk you into buying a car that you can’t afford. The dealer is not the one who will be paying for the car for 6 years, you are.
Do not talk about trade-ins, down payments or incentives until after you have a firm price on the car you want. This will be taken care of after the fact. Get the deal down pat first, then talk business with trade-ins and so forth, your wallet will thank you.
Start your car shopping online. It is possible to find just about any car you want on the internet. Completely research any vehicle you are thinking of purchasing before you visit the car lot. By using the Internet, it is possible to come up with ratings, specifications, MPG, size, resale value and much more.
When you are out buying a car, take someone with you who does not care whether you buy a car or not. They can make sure you will not make stupid mistakes. They can even go on the test drive with you to point out issues they notice.
Before you start shopping for a car, you should decide how much you want to pay. The price should come from how much you feel comfortable paying, along with the general price of the vehicle that you’re considering buying.
Research is key to a used car purchase. There are many online sources that will inform you of what a certain car is worth. You could use NADA or Kelly Blue Book to know how much a car is. If the dealership is trying to sell the car for a higher price than what it is worth, look for a different dealer.
It’s the job of a salesperson to make the most money possible. It might be obvious, but you might forget if the salesperson knows how to sell. Always be aware of any add-ons and extras, which will be added to the bottom line of the car. Sometimes, you may face many charges that can jump up into the thousands.
Wait until the month’s end to shop for your car if you can. Rather than looking at you as a human being with needs, the salesperson might choose to view you as the one last mark needed to meet a quota. Allow yourself several days time at the end of a month to negotiate a deal.
Prior to the negotiation, get an idea about every potential incentive. Know about rebates, loan rates, incentive programs, trade-in values and warranties. This also helps you haggle more professionally.
Be sure to look for rebates before you go shopping. Lots of car dealers offer on-site rebates in order to encourage fast decisions. If the dealership is less reputable, they will simply pocket the rebate.
When you think about what kind of vehicle you’re getting, figure out what you’re using it for. For example, if you need a car that you’re using to travel on highways, figure out how you can benefit from hybrids. When you understand what you need a car for, you are better prepared to make an adequate match.
Research your car’s trade-in price and negotiate based on its value. You will be able to know what dollar amount you can possibly get from the deal, and this can help you in figuring out an acceptable price for the new vehicle.
Be aware that car salesmen aren’t always trustworthy. Make sure that you are in control of the negotiation at all times. Don’t think that they’re being friendly because they are thinking of your best interest. Be skeptical at all times.
Getting into a new or used car is something that causes quite a bit of stress. Education is key if you want to make the best decision you can. Refer to the information you’ve just learned to help you make that next great car purchase.