Buying your first car can seem overwhelming, but with a little research and preparation, you’ll be an expert in no time!
Check out these tips for a smooth, stress-free journey to your first car:
- Consider ALL the costs. When it comes to car ownership, buying a vehicle is just the first step. You’ll also be on the hook for registration, insurance, fuel, repairs and maintenance. Before you dive in, look at your budget and make sure you can handle all the costs!
- Research vehicles online. Take your time and think about what kind of vehicle you want. Sporty? Practical and fuel-efficient? Something large, like a truck or SUV? Once you know what you’re looking for, search the web to find vehicles for sale that match your needs. This can help you get a better idea of what you might be spending and where you can find it.
TIP: Once you find your dream car make and model, you can get quotes for insurance and estimates for personal property tax costs to give you a better idea if what you’re looking for fits your budget needs!
- Get pre-approved for an auto loan. If you’re not sure what you might be able to spend on your new vehicle, getting pre-approved for a loan is a great place to start. Through the terms of your pre-approval, you’ll know exactly what your spending limit is.
When it comes to your loan, make sure to shop around for rates and terms that meet your needs!
- Before you head to the dealership, consider whether you want an extended warranty. Opting for an extended warranty can be helpful in certain situations, but may not be necessary. Do some research on your vehicle’s reliability and decide on the warranty before you visit the dealership.
- Test drive! Taking vehicles for a test drive is an important part of the process. A car may look great on paper but maybe feels cramped inside or doesn’t drive smoothly. Don’t be afraid to test drive as many vehicles as you need to find the right fit!
- Skip the extras. Your salesperson will most likely try to sell you on all sorts of extras, like fabric protectant or paint sealer. Decline! You can get any upgrades you want later, at a better price.
- Be prepared to walk away. At the end of the day, the dealership needs your sale more than you need the vehicle. If you don’t think you’re getting the right price, don’t be afraid to walk away! They may follow up with a better offer.
