Buying your first car is one of those big moments in life that will stick with you. You want to purchase something that speaks to you and gets you excited to drive it, but at the same time, you need to be a cautious buyer.
To ensure that you don’t get too carried away in the moment and make a purchase you end up regretting, here are six tips for smart shopping. It’s all about taking the emotions out of buying a first car and instead shopping like an informed consumer.
Identify Your Needs
Before you start looking at options, it’s wise to start by identifying your needs. How do you plan on using your car? Will it be used to commute to and from work and nothing else? Maybe you’re looking for a family-friendly vehicle that has plenty of passenger and cargo space. Then again, maybe this car is all about you and you want something sporty and sophisticated.
Does Fuel Efficiency Matter to You?
Nowadays the answer to this question is more often yes than no, as the price of fuel only continues to increase year after year. For many drivers, fuel efficiency ends up being the most important aspect of the vehicle. Every vehicle should have easy-to-find stats on fuel efficiency, so there’s no need to make guesses. Try checking the manufacturer’s website for more details if needed.
Do You Want an Electric Vehicle?
Speaking of fuel efficiency, the focus has been on electric and hybrid vehicles in the past few years, and this is bound to continue. With governments around the world looking to phase out or at least slow down the production of fuel-powered vehicles in favor of electric, it seems like it’s only a matter of time before it may be the only option available. Even if fuel-powered vehicles are still available, there’s a good chance that the vast majority of new cars in the coming decade will be electric or at least hybrid models.
The big question is, do you take the leap now, or wait for the technology to improve and evolve even further?
Have Your Eye on an Import? Use a Trusted Dealer
If you have a very specific make and model in mind, and it’s an import, you need to proceed with an extra level of caution. It’s always best to use a trusted dealer with a good reputation in the field of imports. You also want to be sure they are legally imported, which is something first-time buyers may not be aware is a thing. These legally imported JDM sports cars are the perfect example of a trusted route to take that offers consumer confidence.
What’s Your Budget?
Sure, it would be wonderful to shop for a car without any care for the budget but that’s not likely a reality. Chances are there is a number you feel comfortable spending and don’t want to go over it.
Don’t forget to factor in the size of the down payment you can afford, as this will lower your monthly payments if you are financing or leasing.
Whenever Possible, Take It for a Test Drive
While this tip won’t be possible with every purchase, if you can go and see the car in person and take it for a test drive, that is ideal. You want to be sure it handles as you assumed it would and that you are comfortable with the car. This is also a chance to do a visual inspection of the interior and exterior, making sure everything is up to par.
Purchasing a car is a sizeable investment and you want to be sure you’re happy with the results. Using these tips will ensure you make a purchase you are confident about.