Tips for Buying a New Car
So, you’re looking to buy a nice new car, but you’re finding yourself facing one of the biggest dilemmas imaginable – and that’s where on earth do you even begin your search? With so many options out there and new models to choose from, we understand just how daunting the situation can become. That’s why we’ve prepared some of the most helpful tips for buying a new car.
Plan your purchase
In this instance we aren’t referring to planning financially; but when it comes to the time that you buy instead. It’s well-known that at the end of each month, most showrooms will be keen to shift their older stock, and this can be the time to swoop in and snap up an appealing deal.
Choose your model wisely
Unless the car has an ANCAP rating of 4 or above, you might want to give it a miss. Why is this? Well according to the Australasian New Car Assessment Program, any vehicle with 4 stars or above is considered very safe, but it’s not just about the reassurance of knowing that you and your family will be better-protected in the event of an accident; there’s also the concept of depreciation to think about (with lower rated stars losing their value far quicker in most cases).
Be sure to take your potential car for a spin
Even if a vehicle looks the part and features an appealing price – you might feel completely differently by the time you put your foot on the pedal. From the comfort to the noise emitted by the engine; these are factors that you’ll only get to grips with by taking the steering wheel in both hands for a test drive before agreeing to make a purchase.
Keep your options open
Dealers rely on their sales to keep their businesses operating. But that isn’t your concern as a buyer – in fact, it’s leverage that you can use to your advantage. Rather than diving in head first and agreeing to their terms, it can make more sense to obtain quotes from up to three different showrooms and then use the differences to force each agent to compete for your business.
Don’t fall for ‘appealing’ tricks
If you want power steering, make that known. If you like the idea of cruise-control instead, be sure to share your desire. Plenty of people fall victim to dealers offering features and extras that you might not want or use; so be sure to go into a negotiation with your aims in mind and make them work to tick all of your boxes.
Pay attention to the fuel usage
These days, fuel consumption is a huge deal. From impacting the environment right through to taking a toll on your bank balance – choosing a vehicle that uses a comfortable amount of petrol or diesel can be far more beneficial. Fortunately, fuel usage information can be found on the internet, with the make and model; or simply ask your dealer for the specifications to judge for yourself.
Don’t miss out on the chance to save
If you’re planning on buying a car that isn’t on special, then you could actually find yourself in a position to negotiate the cost down by quite a comfortable amount (up to $2,000 in some cases). If the vehicle is on special offer however, then most dealers will consider the discount as being applied – but for those of you that prefer to buy as seen, you could save yourself a small fortune in the process.
Don’t overlook the power of manners
This will go without saying in most cases, but being polite to a service provider can often result in your enjoying benefits that you might miss out on without a smile. Showrooms are run by individuals and although it’s their job to sell; they might be far more likely to extend a courtesy should you choose to make a little extra effort as far as pleasantries are concerned.
Go into the deal with knowledge
If you have an idea of the make or model that you’re after, why not be sure to do your own research before heading into the showroom? By doing so, you’ll likely be able to minimise your risk of being lured by aftersales techniques such as window tinting or additional weather protection. Know what you want and aspire to achieve the cheapest deal.
Don’t be afraid of commitment
If you are there to buy, make it known. Your dealer will be far more likely to pull out all of the stops if you make it clear to them that you have your deposit ready and want to walk away with a deal in exchange for your hard earned cash.
With these tips, you’ll be much closer to finding the right type of car for your needs, without having to worry so much about being swindled or signing up to an unfair deal.
