When buying your first car it can be a very exciting time in any young person"s life but choosing the right car for you can become daunting and scary at times with tricksters on every corner of the market. Knowing what to buy and how to choose can save you from being doped out of your money for a piece of scrap. Here are some tips to consider when buying a used car.
- First off consider your budget.
- What monthly instalments can you afford?
- What kind of car should you be looking for?
- What is the cars value and how will it depreciate?
- Can you afford the insurance?
- Buy a used one to9 two years old.
- Is it worth buying the car as is or does it have repairs that are need.
- Have the car inspected by AA or someone that knows about the car.
- Negotiate the first price is usually a little more than what the dealer really wants.
Here are some Do's and Don'ts:
Do look at your finances and set yourself a limit what you can afford before shopping.
Don't buy a used car without doing some research on reliability and common problems - some cars are prone to expensive problems and should be avoided when used.
Don't buy gas guzzlers; days of cheap gasoline are in the past.
Don't look for a lowest price.
Do look for a well maintained car in good condition for a reasonable price.
Do check the used car history report to find out about previously reported issues with a car.
Don't buy cars with engine or transmission problems, badly rusted cars, cars that have been flooded or restored after an accident.
Do take what you have been told about the car with a grain of salt; rely on facts.
Don't be rude to sales people; they are just doing their job and trying to earn a living for their families.
Do test drive a car for as long as it takes you to get the good feel before making a final decision.
Don't buy a car if something doesn't feel right.
Do test drive another car of the same model to compare condition.
Don't buy a car unless properly inspected by your mechanic or a used car inspector.
Don't base your decision on monthly payments.
Do ask to calculate the total price including taxes and interest.
Do walk away if you feel too much pressure.
Do negotiate and shop around; use competition to your advantage.
Do negotiate closer to the end of the month to get a better deal.
Don't buy a car without taking a break and thinking the deal through.
Do check all the paperwork carefully.
Don't forget that a car needs to be maintained well to last
Buying your first car can be one of those long lasting memories that you will enjoy for the rest of your life. |
