The fact that you are taking your time to process the thought of buying a car is really great. You’ve probably priced the car and the price is probably within your budget, but you can’t stop thinking if you really need the car now or if the car is going to be a liability. You want to be well prepared, to avoid regret at all cost. And that’s great!
So before visiting a car dealer’s lot, here are 5 things you should consider before buying a car.
Your Finances
You need to size up your finances to find out if buying a car won’t rip out your financial stability. Outline your monthly expenses, even the smallest ones. Add them up and compare the sum total to your monthly income. If what you see doesn’t make your heart cave in, then you are probably good to go. Your finances should direct you to the next step: going ahead to buy a car and the type of car you opt for.
Type Of Car You Need
Not thinking hard to be sure of the kind of car you need may also result in you having regrets later on. If there’s a particular brand of car you love, determine if you can afford the price and subsequent cost of maintenance. Will the car be new or used? If used, you have to take the next point seriously.
Vehicle History
While buying a used car can save you a lot of money at the initial stage, the car may come with a lot of unpleasant baggage passed on by the previous owner. You have your eyes set on the car because it looks all shiny and solid on the surface. But you will be making a big mistake if you wire your cash to the dealer without researching the history of the car. Know if the car has been involved in any reported accidents by running the car’s name, and number on sites like autocheck.com.
Fuel Efficiency
You don’t want to pay for that car and drive it home without knowing if its fuel economical. Ask a trusted mechanic or check online for the vehicle’s fuel efficiency in miles per gallon. Use the info you get to determine if you want to buy the car.
Reputation Of The Car Brand And Dealer
Ask your friends and family that has a similar car what they think about their car.? Are they satisfied or is there something about the car they regretted after buying it? Also, find out about the reputation of the car dealer you want to do business with. Your friends, co-workers or family members may know something about them that will guide you.
