Inspired by our Driving-Inspired Style Guide, we asked Sara Lacey, our favourite car expert, what we need to know before we buy:
Nothing is as exciting and infuriating at the same time as the search for a car. To alleviate some of the stress, here are some things you need to know before you go searching (and potentially fall in love with something you can’t have):
- Determine your budget. Not the fantasy budget, but the real one that you can live with.
- If you're trading in your car, be sure you know its value.
- If you're financing, figure out a good rate. Get pre-approved for an auto loan from your bank. This will provide you with an interest rate. Even if you don’t take their loan, you will have this as a reference point for future loan terms.
- Make a list of all the things you love about your current vehicle. If you don’t have a vehicle, still make a list of all the things you want. Don’t forget the things that you may not be using right now but will miss if you don’t have them. Figure out what things you absolutely can’t live without, and be ready to compromise on other points. Accept that your favourite features might be attached to a bigger package of features that can break your budget.
- Look online to see what your potential new car costs. If you’re within your budget and ready to go looking at a dealership, make an appointment with the online sales manager. Tell them what you’re looking for, and that you would like to test-drive the car when you come in. Be prepared with a copy of your driver’s license and insurance.
- If you're considering buying a car online, buyer beware. Be sure you're doing business with a reliable company that has a track record, and know what your rights are if the vehicle you get isn’t what it’s supposed to be.
- Fall is typically a good time to buy because dealerships are clearing out the current year’s inventory to make room for the new models. There may not be as much variety, so be prepared to compromise.
- Whatever the time of year, be sure to check for incentives. Local incentives are offered by dealerships in town, and national incentives are offered by the manufacturer.
Hopefully this list will help you enjoy the car-buying process. Remember that while you will have to compromise on some things, you should leave the dealership feeling satisfied.
Sara Lacey spends her time punishing automobiles with the help of her children so you don't have to. Her expertise cuts through the monotony of torque and displacement and gets right to the things important to every mom - cup holders and latch connectors. Sara writes about cars for MotherProof.com & Cars.com. She sits on the board of theRocky Mountain Automotive Press Association.
Thought that was sweet? You'll enjoy: