Whether you’re 16, 36 or 60, buying your first new car is an exciting time. If you’re already a car owner, you likely spent a lot of time researching car brands, considering the benefits of buying a used car versus buying a new car, and you probably spent some time figuring out how much car insurance you’ll have to pay once it’s parked in your driveway.
If you’re new to the car buying process, there are a few things you need to know before you invest your hard earned dollars in a four wheeled freedom machine.
There are many, many car brands to choose from out there, so if you’re a little overwhelmed with the array of choices, that’s all normal. Choosing a car brand has a lot to do with your personal aesthetic preferences. Some people prefer a sleek sports car look, while others are looking for a big, bulky truck. No one can tell you what style of vehicle to choose, but lots of people will try to tell you about the carmakers they prefer. Some people are loyal to North American car brands like Ford and GM, while others swear by imports like Honda, Toyota and Hyundai. There really is no way to choose the best brand for you without getting out there and test driving them! This is the best part of the car buying process by far. If you can’t get out to test drive as much as you’d like, consider renting a car for a weekend (or during the week when rates are lower). Car rental will cost you a little bit of money, but could save you from getting stuck with a car that isn’t quite right. This is a great way to find out if the car you’ve got your eye on is the right one for you. While a quick test drive at the dealership can help you decide, a couple of days with the car of your choosing may help make the decision that much easier.
Shopping for a used car can sometimes be easier than shopping for a new car. With trade ins and off-lease cars, you can often get a relatively new car at a deeply discounted price. Used car prices are obviously more affordable, but choosing a used car does come with its own set of pitfalls. Make sure when you’re shopping for used vehicles to ask about warranties, milage, extras the dealership can throw in for you, service, and any other offers they may have. Remember with used cars, buyers beware! If you can, get a mechanic or car expert to accompany you on your car buying excursion; this is the best way to ensure you’re not buying a lemon!
With the freedom of a car comes some responsibility; namely car insurance. Essentially, car insurance protects you and your vehicle in case of an accident and can ensure that damages are covered financially should an accident occur.
To get the best car insurance deal, check out several insurance companies for their rates. You can check online for insurance quotes and compare them without leaving the comfort of your home. When you have a couple of likely quotes, take them to another company and ask them to beat it. The worst they can say is no, and the best case scenario means you’ll get an even better deal. Be aware that insuring a used car will be cheaper than insuring a used car!