These tips on buying a new car should help remove some of the confusion that can arise when you see all those shiny new motors on the forecourt. When you are buying a new car, always be very clear about what you want before you go. Some car salesmen are very good at selling ‘extras’ that you don’t really need. Ask around to see if there are any dealerships in your area that people can recommend.
- 1. Before you even think about buying a new car you should already know what size car you need. This will be impacted partly by your budget but largely by the size of your family and what you intend using the vehicle for. If you live in the city and just want a small runaround you will buy a completely different model to that required for a family of five who make regular motorway trips. If you want to carry animals in the back, a large load area may be more important to you than space for passengers.
- 2. How many doors do you want the car to have? If you don’t have kids and are on a tight budget you may not want to spend money on additional doors. But you should remember that generally a four or more door car will retain its value better than a two door vehicle.
- 3. Decide on the size of engine you need. This will be dictated by the type of travel you do. If you are just going to drive locally a small economical engine may be best but this will prove expensive not to mention frustrating if you are going to drive on the freeway.
- 4. When buying a new car, if possible pay in cash. Usually you will get a much better deal than if you were to buy on finance. If you have to choose the latter option, check the contract thoroughly before you sign. You must read the terms and conditions as you do not want to find you will be paying off the car until you retire. Check the interest rate, penalty terms in particular those that would apply if you were to pay off the credit early. Don’t accept any additions such as payment protection insurance, unless it is something that you really think you need.
5. Choose those extras with care. We all know that your new car will lose a large percentage of the value as soon as you pay the dealer. If you want to add extras, try to choose those that will help retain their value. Examples include air conditioning and in-car navigation systems. Choosing alloy wheels and a different colored trim will cost you extra and while they may make the car look better, they will not put any money back in your pocket if you sell the car later.- 6. Negotiate at every stage of the deal. Never accept the asking price without ask for a discount. Shop around different dealers and use their quotes to negotiate a better deal at the next garage you go to.
- 7. Consider buying a new car in October or November when many of the car dealerships sell pre registered cars. These cars are technically used cars as they have been registered by the dealers but the only mileage on them is that used in delivery. These vehicles are well worth a second look as you can get great bargain on what is effectively a new car.
- 8. Even if you have seen the very car that you want, go home and think about it before committing yourself to the purchase. Buying a new car is a big expense and you should be armed with all the facts and be absolutely sure that you are getting exactly what you want before signing on the dotted line.