Car Buying Tips

Hi I’m Max Babelli, and here are some Car Buying Tips.
Better safe than sorry.

How can I get the best deal when buying a car?

Learn all you can about the cars you’re interested in models, options, and prices-before you walk into a dealership. That way, you’ll have a good knowledge base to work from. Always get a Carfax run on the car your interested to check the history of the car.

How can I shop for a car without feeling pressured to buy?

Before you visit a dealership, call to find out if it has the car you’re interested in. Spend a little time on the phone with the salesperson. If you feel comfortable with him or her, make an appointment to see the car, but also indicate that you don’t intend to buy a car that day. If you still feel pressured to buy, are uncomfortable with the salesperson, or don’t believe you’re getting complete and honest information, take you business elsewhere.

What should I try to find out on the test-drive?

Find out if everything on the car operates and performs properly. The engine and transmission should accelerate and shift smoothly; the brakes should feel firm and readily bring you to a stop.
Then check out how the car suits your own driving style. Steering and handling should seem precise and inspire confidence. The ride should be neither too firm nor too soft. Make sure the cabin and cargo area can easily transport the number of passengers and goods you typically carry in your car.
On the test drive, don’t let the salesperson dictate the route. Insist on driving on a wide variety of roads and surfaces: city and neighborhood streets highways and freeways. You want to find out how the car responds in different driving situations. And don’t let the salesperson rush you. Take as long as you need to get a solid feel for the car-or arrange for another test-drive later. If this car’s the one, you want to be sure that you like nearly everything about the way it drives. Once you buy a car, you’re going to have to live with it.

Okay, I’ve test-driven the car and I’m ready to buy. Now what?

Before you negotiate a deal, nail down you financing options. That way, you’ll know whether you can beat the dealer’s interest rate. When it’s time to agree on a price, you’ll know the car’s cost based on your research. If it’s your goal to get a good deal without negotiations, simply calculate the price you’re willing to pay-including interest, taxes, registration, and other fees and stick to it. As you negotiate the deal, have the dealer use a worksheet to write down every item and its cost. If you’re unsure of anything, ask questions before you sign any documents.

What about my current car?

Before you decide to trade, sell, or donate the car, research its value. You’ll probably get more money if you sell the car yourself, but this will take time and effort. If you want to use your car as a trade-in, get a firm price on the new car first. Use the Kelly Blue Book trade in value to get a good estimate of what you can get for your car.

Any final advice?

First, determine to make decisions only when you’re ready. Second, resist being pressured into buying anything you didn’t plan to purchase. Third, be sure that everything you’ve agreed to is itemized and signed by the dealer. Finally, read and understand the sales contract and any other documents before you sign them. After all, when it comes to buying a car, you’re in the driver’s seat.