In January 2020, around 1,44,279 new cars were sold in the U.S, which shows we’re always after the latest models.
Buying a new car has many perks as it is customized to your lifestyle, has newer features, and comes with lower insurance rates than used vehicles. Perhaps the idea of purchasing new cars has you quaking in your boots, and you have no idea where to start.
Sounds like you? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. Here are seven factors to consider.
1. Find a Reputable Dealer
Before comparing car prices, it’s important to find a reliable dealer.
Check dealerships in the area and read reviews, so you learn about past customer’s experiences. Don’t be afraid to reach out directly, especially if you’re interested in similar types of cars.
You should also visit several dealerships and ask employees questions about the buying process. It’s important that the company is established and their team has experience matching clients with their dream cars. Note that if any dealerships seem off, listen to your gut and move onto the next one.
2. Cost
The price between popular car manufacturers varies, so outline an ironclad budget before you browse models.
Flick through your latest bank statements and bills to see how much you can afford. You mustn’t forget to calculate the ongoing costs such as gas, maintenance, and car insurance.
It’s important to remember that buying a state-of-the-art vehicle will cost more to repair, so factor this into your budget. You should also consider the car’s future resale value as it often plummets after two years.
And although it’s tempting to splurge on a Chevrolet, other brands retain their value better, such as a Toyota or Range Rover. Also, the time that you buy a car affects the costs.
This is because dealers have a large amount of stock to shift in September and March, which means you could potentially land a great deal. Plus, in August and February, before plates change, dealers are desperate to sell their cars.
Further, if you’re not in a rush, then shop around. It’s a good idea to visit dealerships outside of your city as these prices fluctuate with each location.
3. Find the Right Vehicle for Your Needs
The most important aspect of buying a new car is finding one that aligns with your lifestyle. For instance, a bachelor will have different needs than a family of five.
As you browse models, like the delightful Eclipse Cross PHEV, decide how many people are in your household and whether there’s enough room for their belongings. Factor in the area where you drive and whether you need special tires for the terrain. But make sure you’re looking into the future as you want to make the purchase last.
4. Features
Many newer vehicles boast the latest car technology, but you mustn’t overlook regular features that are equally important. A popular one is adaptive cruise control which ensures you’re at a safe difference from the car ahead.
Another worthwhile feature is a backup camera that activates as you reverse. This helps you spot a pedestrian and prevents you from bumping into another vehicle. On the flip side, the forward-collision warning feature alerts you if there’s a vehicle zipping into your lane too fast, potentially putting you at risk.
If you’ve got children, make sure the vehicle has a LATCH system which makes child-seat installation safer.
You’ll notice there are built-in anchors and a top-tether attachment so that your child is securely fastened in. Further, consider getting a car with pedestrian detection. This uses the vehicle’s cameras to spot any passersby and automatically brakes if someone is near your car.
5. Car Insurance
Aside from the upfront cost of the vehicle, consider the type of auto insurance you’re qualified for. You must contact an insurance provider of the car’s model and your details such as age and driving record.
Note that sports cars have higher insurance premiums and consider the cars make as Honda Civic and Toyota Camry, for example, are popular with thieves. But before choosing a provider, get a quote from several companies until you’re happy with the plan.
6. Test Drive the Vehicle
Test driving cars is the most exciting part of the buying process. It’s crucial that you’re comfortable in the car and you have no problems navigating it. You should also check that the view from the mirrors is clear, and you can easily locate the turn signals.
Consider how well you can use the controls, as the buttons may be too small or tricky to use. And you mustn’t forget to test the brakes and ensure that they’re responsive as the sensitivity varies between cars.
7. Follow Your Gut
Once you’ve thoroughly assessed the advantages and disadvantages of the car, listen to your gut. Did the car have every feature you need? Were you happy with the dealer?
At the end of the day, you know what your dream car is, and finding it should be a rewarding experience rather than a chore. If anything is compromising your confidence, then give yourself time to properly think about it.
Our Purchasing New Cars Tips
Hopefully, after reading this article, you’re confident about purchasing new cars so you can find the dream vehicle for your family.
Before making this big investment, consider the vehicle’s cost, the dealer’s reliability, and whether this model fits with your lifestyle. You must also factor in maintenance and insurance costs so that you don’t break your budget. Good luck!
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