Most folks think that car buying is not a lot of fun. While driving a new car can be fun, buying a car is a process that requires time and research. By using the following information, you’ll be well on your way to making the best purchase possible.
When shopping for a car, it’s important that you are aware of your needs beforehand. How much can you afford to spend? What is the passenger capacity you will need? What mileage are you looking for? Do you want a two door or a sedan? Write out your wish list, and take it to the dealership with you.
You do yourself a great disservice if you fail to negotiate a price lower than sticker. Advertised prices on cars should never be paid. They are purposely inflated in order to allow room to dicker with the customer, and you should take advantage of this fact.
Monthly Payments
When negotiating, concentrate on the final price rather than the monthly payments. The dealer can set the monthly payments at any amount, but this will extend your terms, resulting in a very high purchase price. Instead, focus on getting the price of your car as low as possible and then work with the financing. Once you have done that, determine what the monthly payments will be.
Do not pay sticker price for a vehicle. No sane dealer believes he or she will get full sticker price. Bring a friend that is a good negotiator if that is not your strong point. You need to know what a good price is for the desired car beforehand so that you can figure out what you’ll be willing to pay.
You should always have someone go with you when going car shopping. They can be an extra set of ears, along with being more reasonable about leaving when hearing a deal that doesn’t benefit you. The person could be your spouse, a good friend or even a parent.
Make sure that a budget is in place when you are car shopping. As you shop, avoid exceeding your budgeted amount despite the salesperson’s representations. You will be the one paying the payments, not them.
Don’t roll up to the dealership in an expensive car. If the staff see that car, they’ll think you’re made of money. Borrow a car if you have to.
Do not mention trade-ins, incentives or down payments until you already have a price commitment on the car of your choice. This will be taken care of after the fact. You can get the best price this way.
Comparison Shopping
It can be exhausting, as well as exciting, to purchase a new car. Use your computer and the Internet for comparison shopping to save yourself a lot of dollars and time. There are several online sites that consolidate information from various private owners and dealerships so that you can conduct a side-by-side comparison shopping of different vehicles and their amenities and asking price. That way, you can quickly narrow your list of potential vehicles in advance.
Be careful about giving up your personal information. Dealers will use it to check your credit report when you give it to them. If you decide not to purchase there, having your credit run by multiple dealerships can hurt your chances of getting the best deal. You should work out a deal before you give out personal info.
Make sure you stay silent about any trade-ins. Only reveal this after the negotiation process is complete. If you wait until after the price negotiations, you will actually get the value of your trade-in.
Review a car you want very well. Inspect the exterior for any dents or scratches. Find any stains or tears on the carpet and the upholstery. Know that once you buy this vehicle, it’s your problem. That means the stains, flaws and dings as well.
If you have a specific car in mind, call the dealership first to see if they have one available. If you visit them, the salesperson will try his best to sell it to you. If you really want a four door sedan and they don’t have any, that’s a waste of your time. Call them beforehand and ask.
Don’t sign the warranty that reads “as-is” when purchasing. You will probably regret that decision if you make it. There should at least be a warranty for 30-90 days when purchasing a used car. Should the engine or transmission stop working once you’ve left the dealership, you are solely responsible for the cost of repairs.
Make sure you allow time before making a purchase of a car that has been newly released. The sooner you try to purchase a vehicle after it is released, the more you can expect to pay. Take your time and then check it out down the road.
Demand that the dealer gets rid of any advertising fees. You should never pay that fee. If they will not budge, explain that you will take your business elsewhere. I guarantee they won’t let you step off the lot.
If you plan to trade in your vehicle, learn its value before you go to the dealership. Do not take it for granted that the dealer will give you the best price as a trade-in on a new vehicle. This is a good way to find out how much you should expect from the trade in and factor this amount in the final price.
Look for a vehicle that is well known for being dependable, with a reputation for inexpensive repairs. You don’t need to give out a bunch of money every month or two just to keep the vehicle going! Find reviews online to determine which vehicles may meet your needs without requiring repairs.
Buying a new vehicle can make you feel anxious and indecisive. Education is key if you want to make the best decision you can. Keep these tips close at hand so that you will be totally prepared to shop for a vehicle, and you will wind up with one that is most suitable for your needs.