Buying a new car can be a strange experience because it can be both hugely exciting and very stressful. If you are considering buying a new car, then this checklist is here to help. This checklist has been designed to help you enjoy the process of buying a new car without the stress, safe in the knowledge that you have considered all necessary factors.
1. Do Your Research
The first step to buying a new car needs to research. This should take place before you even set foot in the dealership. You should consider who will be using the car, how much space you need, what budget you have to work with, and what models appeal to you.
Once you have narrowed down your criteria, then you can start searching for your ideal car. You should look online to compare different models and read customer reviews. Take a look on the official manufacture’s website for models that you are interested in to find out what specs are available.
2. Set Your Budget
When you are doing your research, you will likely have a general budget in mind, but it is useful to spend a bit of time working out an exact budget. Setting an exact budget before you go to the dealership will mean that you do not inadvertently set your heart on a car that you then realize you cannot afford.
When you are working out your budget, remember to factor in both upfront and running costs. For example, you should be aware of how much it takes to run, service, and insure different models.
3. Visit the Dealership
By this stage, you will probably be ready to visit the dealership, as you will know the cars you are interested in and what your budget is. It is a good idea to visit the dealerships but expect not to make a purchase today. Taking a bit of time to decide is always a good idea when you are making a big purchase like a car.
4. Take a Test Drive
If you have found some models that you love at the dealership, then you should ask to take these cars out for a test drive. You are entitled to take a car out for about twenty to thirty minutes, so you don’t need to feel rushed. Try driving on a few different road surfaces and at different speeds so that you get a good feel for the car.
5. Research Insurance
Once you have settled on which models you like the most, you should then go home and look into insurance options. You should look at different car insurance quotes online to make sure that you are getting the best deal. If you aren’t sure what policy you need, speak to the experts.
6. Make the Deal
Once you have decided on a car and found the right insurance policy for you, then you are ready to make the purchase. You should expect to negotiate a little to try to bring the price down. This step can get quite confusing, as the car dealership will likely try to sell you add-ons and extras. Remember that it is the job of the salespeople to convince you of the value of these extra purchases and that anything you buy at the dealership will come at a higher price.