Buying a car isn’t as tough as you think. Even if it’s your first time, you don’t need to be intimidated. When you break it down into the simplest components, this can be an easy and relaxing experience for you. That is, so long as you know what you’re doing. To help you out we’ve put together a little guide or you can read it on AutoLoud. It’ll take you through the main highlights of the car buying process.
Research Your Vehicle
What kind of car do you want? Do you want a two-seater that’s compact and can get around narrow city streets just fine? Are you looking for a family car that has a lot of trunk space for taking suitcases on vacation? Are you looking for a pick up truck to do a little haulage with? Whatever your needs you need to know what vehicle is appropriate. Check online. There are plenty of resources full of car guides and reviews. They’ll push you in the right direction for the cars that are right for you.
Find A Vendor
Whether you’re buying new or used cars, you need to find a vendor. If you’re buying used you can go to a showroom, car lot, or find an independent seller. If you’re buying new, you’re mainly only going to have to go to the showroom. It’s important you find somewhere local enough. You’ll have to go sign some papers at some point, and the car buying process can be pretty drawn out if you’re waiting for a car that’s on order. Just make sure it’s somewhere you can get to in good time.
Check The Car
When it’s new, you don’t have to do much checking. A test drive would be nice though. Be sure to ask about that. I’m sure most showrooms and vendors will be happy to oblige. When buying used you need to be just a little bit more careful. Examine the details of the car. See what’s in good shape, and try to determine what isn’t. Not all used cars are perfect. Be aware of that. They’re going to have a little wear and tear. Just try and make sure none of it is a dealbreaker.
Financing
Unless you’re the wealthy type, you’re probably going to have to look into car financing to buy your new vehicle. If you’re buying used you might be able to buy without the help of a loan. Buying new though? Yeah, you’ll need a cash injection to pay for the car. Try and find a financial provider that suits your budget. Some loan arrangements will work with your monthly income, others might not. The important thing is being able to pay the bills month to month rather than how long you’re paying them for.
Papers
Make sure to get a copy of anything you sign. Read it first though. You don’t want to be caught out if something in the arrangement is fishy. Make plenty of copies too, and store them in different places. If you house were to go down in a blaze, at least you’d have copies of the paperwork for your car lying around somewhere.