Buying a car can really be challenging and sometimes very loathing. Dealing with a pushy, annoying and overbearing car salesman, can be extremely frustrating.
However, buying a car either new or used is a reality we all must face at a point in time. I’ve compiled some important steps to however guide you in buying a car. This will hopefully help you get the best car deal and obviously help you save money and help reduce your stress involved in car buying process.
7 Steps In Buying A Car
1. Research About The Car
It is said that knowledge is power. Your knowledge about anything helps you make an informed decision before taking action. It’ll be a big mistake to just enter a car lot looking for a car to buy without any information about the right type, the price, your specification among others.
The best way to go about it is to do a comprehensive research about cars with the help of the purpose of which you’re buying the car. There are online car sales platforms you can search through such as Tonaton.com. Search for the types, your specification, brand and most importantly the price before stepping at the car lot or garage.
2. Look into Pre-finance Options
You’ve gotten the type of car you want to buy now, next thing is to look at the price as against your finances. Do you have the financial power or capacity to purchase the car type?
It is important to note the interest rates of car dealerships as against bank rates. Most interest rates of car dealerships are higher than bank rates. I would recommend you start researching about car loans from banks. But if you have the financial power or capacity to purchase the car upfront, then you wouldn’t have to worry about financing the purchase.
3. Shop Around
Dealerships price their cars differently depending on their location and promotional activities, so it is important that even after searching online you still shop around to get their rock bottom price. Try visiting as many car dealerships as possible to know what offer is available.
While at the car dealerships, look for both new and used cars to see which one you can really afford. Get price quotes for both and make your decision on which to go for. You should always go along with a mechanic or a car expert to help you decide on the best car type. If you have a fair knowledge and insight about cars, it’ll be to your advantage.
4. Avoid Impulse Buying
Buying a car on a whim is a risky endeavour. It is important to consider an extensive search and testing of the car before making any payments. You might just realize too late after buying that the car does not perform to your preference or is not comfortable enough or might just not serve the purpose of buying. You should be able to put yourself in a car you’ll enjoy for Longer.
5. Test Drive
90% of people who buy car always test drive. This is important in your final decision making. Some cars will look good but you might not feel comfortable driving it. Be on the look out for the following as you test drive;
1. Controls: Flip on the air, locate the turn signals, and turn on the windshield wipers. Ensure that everything is easy to use. Some people find that their fingers are too big to handle certain switches, buttons, or levers in some cars.
2. Idle: must be smooth and quiet.
3. Handling and Brakes: Make sure the car responds when you push the accelerator or brakes. Cars vary significantly in terms of sensitivity, and you want to choose a car that best fits your preferences.
4. View: Make sure the view from each of the mirrors is acceptable, and you have a straight line view of all dashboard gauges.
6. Negotiate Deal
You probably have by now made the decision on which car to buy, you’ve checked all specifications which suites your preference. Now you’ve got to negotiate for a good deal and obviously price.
Be confident whiles negotiating with the car salesman. Let them know you cannot be taken for a ride. Negotiate keeping in mind to beat the price lower. When the offer you the best deal you feel within your ranges, take that offer. Some car dealerships will offer warranties which sometimes do not include maintenance. Be on the look out to get deals which includes maintenance warranty.
7. Factor Insurance Cost
Factor insurance cost in the price of the car you have decided to buy. Some insurance premiums are higher depending on the type of car. It is important to factor insurance cost in the price of the car because it’ll help you negotiate for a good deal. Insurance companies such as Loyalty insurance among others are readily available for research.
Final Word
Buying a car is a major purchase and it is important to research each and every aspects of the car before making any purchase. Educate yourself so you can negotiate for a good deal for your car. By following these steps, we are hopeful you’ll be able to have the best car deal and a wonderful driving experience.
Autocars 