Purchasing a New Car Checklist and Tips

Purchasing a New Car Checklist and Tips

Purchasing your first new car is a big buying decision. You want to be sure you are making the right choices. A good idea is to make a checklist so you know what you want your vehicle to do, be and have. For example, when I buy a new truck I would want the following:

  • 4 wheel drive
  • 4 door
  • leather
  • diesel engine
  • etc.

Making a list helps you stay on track to select the vehicle that would meet your specific needs. It helps you quickly narrow down your selection especially since there is such a variety to choose from when buying a new car. You’ll easily find the vehicle that has the features you need and like.

Here are some great tips and a checklist to consider when selection and buying that new car.

Before the Dealership

  1. Check Safety Ratings – Be sure to check all safety tests including front collision, side collision, rollover, etc. The dealer will most likely be able to provide you with this information at the dealership too.
  2. Check Reliability Ratings – You can check other car websites to find reliability ratings on past year’s models based on customer feedback. It can give you a great idea on the model’s overall reliability.
  3. User Feedback – Check other car websites or forums for people that own the car. You can also find out information on the features and how other car owners like them.
  4. Get Pre-Approved – Many dealerships, banks and lenders offer online pre-approval. This can definitely speed up your time at the dealership and let you know what kind of loan you will be receiving on your new car. (more…)