Car buying tips Mar26 '07

Personally, I do not like car shopping. It has nothing to do with salesmen, either.

I just don't have enthusiasm for cars, in general. I take a basic, unbiased approach to cars: if it runs well, and gets me to my destination, then it's acceptable. If it has some cool features and looks nice - even better.

I tend to think purchasing a car should be like purchasing a gallon of milk. You walk into the store, grab the milk, purchase it, then leave the store. That's it. All done. Out of mind.

Unfortunately, purchasing a car is a drawn-out process. You have to do research, test drives, negotiating, more research - and then one day you finally leave the dealership with the car.

Can't we just skip all of the stuff in the middle?

It's plain and simple. I have a need (a car), and I'd like to satisfy that need (sell me the car), and I want to move on with my life.

Car buying tips

Here are some tips that I've gathered from my experience purchasing cars.

Know what you want.
Know your price range.
Test drive for safety, not features.

Know what you want

It's OK to "shop around" for cars that pique your interest, but realize this will make the process very long and time-consuming.

In the end, it's all the same. Those cool and nifty features that initially sparked your interest will soon lose their luster. Things will become mundane and repetitive - the more time you spend in the car.

It's like choosing a significant other. Sure, looks and "style" are appealing, but all that matters is compatibility. Find something that you can "see yourself in," and go with it.

Know your price range

How much are you willing to put down? How much are you willing to pay per month?

If you have a good idea of these figures, this makes the negotiation process a lot easier. State your terms, and if they can't satisfy that, then look elsewhere. After all, you are the customer. They should be willing to meet your needs, or at least meet you half-way.

Test drive for safety, not features

Many new car buyers think the "test drive" is just for fun.

"Hey, I get to sit in this brand new, expensive car, and drive it around! Neato!"

Instead of checking for the important things, they're only concerned with:

The acceleration.
How the car stereo and/or navigation system functions.
Where is the iPod connection?
Do the seat warmers work?
How much room is in the back for all of my stuff?
What side is the fuel tank on?

This is what every salesman hopes for - someone who doesn't ask a lot of questions, and plays around with the "toys."

Ideally, the test drive should involve many "safety checks," such as:

How are the blind spots? Check every mirror to make sure you can see clearly, and nothing is obstructing your view.
How do the foot pedals feel? Can you find a comfortable position?
Try backing up, parallel parking, and turning sharp corners. How does the "length" of the car feel? Can you judge the proportions of the car well enough?

Conclusion

Purchasing a car doesn't have to a long, drawn-out process, if you're willing to accept whatever you get. Personally, I just want something that does the job. I don't care much for the flash or style.

Categories: Cars , Tips

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