If you’re in the market to buy a new car, you’re in good company. Over 74 million people buy vehicles each year. A large part of those gets sold in the United States.
When you’re ready to head to the car dealership, make sure you have a strategy prepared. Keep reading for the five questions to ask when buying a new car.
-
Money Questions to Ask When Buying a New Car
The first thing you need to know is how much the car will cost you. Negotiating a new car price sometimes comes with a lot of back and forth with the finance manager. To save some time, ask them what the actual cost of the car will be.
Don’t look at the sticker price alone. There are taxes and other fees that go with the final price, so you want to know that number, not the one you see on the window.
-
Know Your Budget
One of the biggest tips for buying a new car from a dealership is to know your budget. It doesn’t matter how cheap a car is if it doesn’t meet your financial goals. Once you have found the one you want, you have to know you can afford it.
Knowing how to buy a car from a dealership means knowing the numbers. Calculate what it will cost you to walk out the doors with your new vehicle. Can you make those payments every month with ease?
-
How Will You Pay?
Most dealerships offer to finance your new car. If you have a relationship with a bank, that may be a better option. Check out interest rates and see what suits you best.
Have a general knowledge of current rates before you go. If your bank quotes you a higher rate than the dealer can get, it might be wise to go with the dealer options.
-
Does It Fit your Style?
Some cars look good on the outside, but you may not like how they feel once you’re in the driver’s seat. Take that car for a spin, and not only around the block. Go for several miles to get a good feel for it.
See how it handles. Does it feel comfortable going at higher speeds? If you feel every bump now, you will feel it from now on.
A car is a big commitment, so spend time on the test drive and learn more about it. Look at all the controls and make sure you get the features you want.
-
What Is the Warranty?
New cars come with warranties, but some are longer than others. Some cover different things, so ask what it includes.
Will the expensive things get covered? You don’t want to spend a lot and have to pay for pricey repairs soon. Get the best warranty you can find.
Think It Over
The above questions to ask when buying a new car are the most important. You should also not feel pressured into buying anything.
Some dealers meet you in the parking lot and can try to force you into a sale. That is why many people avoid going.
Getting the car of your dreams doesn’t have to feel like a hassle. With the right questions, you can drive away with your new car in a few hours. Check out our other articles for more car tips!