Bullet Notes Towards Acquiring A New Car |
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Steven Magill
29 December 2012
The process of acquiring a new car can drive you paranoid. You would be confused if at what point are you actually getting the best deal there is. That is because salesmen are racing to drive your money their way. No matter how friendly can be, salesmen are not your friend in this process.
Firsthand reference is your best initial information. Ask your family and friends about what they know about cars. Are they happy with the car choices they made? Are they feeling buyer's remorse and wish they had gone in a different direction? What things are they hearing about different cars that are out there? This is the best way to start gathering information when purchasing a car.
Don't let salesmen talk you into anything that is unaffordable. People are often pressured into a beautiful, but expensive car by a good salesman. When you purchase a vehicle that is not within your budget, you can be sure that the dealership and salesperson -- not YOU -- will benefit.
If you are smart, custom cars can be a good deal. A good alloy wheel refurbishment product for instance will cause a cheaper price without much difference on the car's essentials. Have the dealership throw in extras in order to keep you at the table. If not, you might as well go somewhere else. Don't let the dealer control your purchase of a custom car.
Test driving a car is essential before purchase. Even if you see exactly what you want at the dealership, you must test drive it for a few minutes. There is no substitute for direct and personal testing. You might notice that the feel of the car isn't what you expected.
A test drive however isn't sufficient. A "tech drive" is just as important. If the car you want has lots of technological components, you need to take the time to familiarize yourself with them before making a purchase. Have the dealer teach you how to use this technology.
If the bank offers you a good interest rate on a car purchase, take them up on the offer. A great car is a nice investment, and taking out a bank loan is more affordable than dealing with the dealership. Compared with other lenders, your bank will try to help you get the best possible rates.
Research the "hidden" costs of the car. Different cars have different costs in maintenance, fuel economy, insurance, and resale value. See how much gas you are likely to use on a regular basis, whether you need special types of oil, and research the cost of routine part replacements. For secondhand units, see if it has undergone alloy wheel repair and if it done in good quality. All the things that are hidden in buying a car can make or break your decision to get that vehicle.
You should not just settle right away on any deal that is given to you. You should allow space to negotiate the best deal possible. Don't hesitate to test these ideas and tips in pursuit of your perfect car.