New car shopping can be fun for some while overwhelming for others. If you don’t look forward to shopping for a car, it’s best to make some preparations first. Check out this invaluable advice, then keep it in mind as you approach the dealership in search of your next vehicle.
Get your financing in order before shopping for autos. You can do this through your local credit union or bank. This will often provide you with a lower interest rate, and when you get to the dealership, you will know the amount you can afford to spend.
Before buying a used car from a dealership, ask to have it looked over by a third-party mechanic. If a dealer does not want to allow this, look elsewhere. A professional mechanic is going to be able to give you objective feedback about the state of the car, including signs of previous wrecks or exposure to flood waters.
Take someone with you when you are car shopping. This person can act as another set of ears, and they might be more reasonable about walking away from a deal if it isn’t in your best interest to accept it. You can take your significant other with you, your mom or dad, or a friend.
Make sure your budget is determined prior to visiting a dealership. If you are shopping for a car, never exceed your budget. Do not let the salesperson talk you into purchasing an expensive car if you are going to spend the next years struggling to make your payments.
If you are wanting to buy a new car, you should ask your bank for financing before you go to the dealership. Doing this ensures your security. The dealership probably can find better rates, but it is nice to have an idea ahead of time.
Remember that you have the option to purchase a vehicle from somewhere other than a dealership. You can also shop at small lots or buy from private owners. Local classifieds and online for-sale listings are great resources for finding good deals on vehicles.
Bring a friend along when browsing for a vehicle. Bring someone along that is unbiased and understands the market. You can steer clear of problems this way. Your friend should also accompany you on your test drive and give you their opinions on how the car handles.
Ask the dealer to let you have the vehicle inspected by the mechanic you have. It should be one that you trust. When a dealer suggests a mechanic, you never know if there’s a little inside baseball going on. He should tell you both if it’s a good deal and whether it is ready to be driven.
The best deals can be found online. The convenience of the Internet has all but eliminated the need to set foot on a car lot. Sites like Craigslist, eBay and online classifieds make finding a vehicle easy. It is possible to get a great deal and sidestep the high pressure tactics of traditional dealers.
Keep in mind that all dealerships and salesmen are different. While car salespeople have a reputation for being pushy, this sales method is losing ground. Nowadays, dealerships are aware that pleasing their customers will ensure that they come back. If you don’t like who you’re dealing with, leave the lot. There are salesperson with very different styles that you will have to choose from.
Never sign a warranty that is as-is when you’re getting a used car. It can be a very bad choice. Never agree to purchase a used vehicle unless you are assured at least a 30 day warranty. You will have to pay for any repairs if the car breaks down the day after buying it.
Compare prices within your location and in the surrounding areas. People from different zip codes may have prices that are different, and it could be cheaper to go to a city that’s nearby. Look at some price trends online to see which cities have the best prices.
Check into the service department found at any dealer you are considering. Find out what other customers have to say. You should call and test the dealership. Make sure that you stick with a dealer that is helpful and respectable.
Ask your colleagues at work, or your relatives, about their experience with car dealerships. See if they had a good experience or would recommend that you go elsewhere. Speak to them about the condition of the car six months in the future and after sales service. If one dealership is getting a lot of positive comments, you should consider going there.
Before you look for a vehicle, know what your financing options are. This can give you the best possible deal for your situation. You will know exactly what you can afford and won’t be distracted by the offers.
When buying a new car, you should do a lot of studying. You are strongly discouraged from visiting a dealership without first doing your homework. Find out about the car you want, the dealership, and the brand to ensure you know what you’ll be getting before going to the dealer.
Check your car’s value in the Blue Book, or get your car appraised. If you know how much you can sell your car for, it can give you a discount when you trade it in. You’ll be able to use this information to haggle for a better trade-in value.
Some people dread the process of having to purchase a car. It is important to be armed with knowledge to get a positive experience with car shopping. Use what you’ve learned, and show the salesperson a thing or two.