Qualities to Look For When Buying a Car
It’s easy to let the excitement of getting your new wheels to take over during the buying process. We get it—you’re ready to feel the wind in your hair, with the stereo blasting, and nothing but the open road. But rushing the process could result in windows that don’t roll down and a radio that doesn’t work, and that would be a tragedy. Here are the main qualities you should check for when finding your next ride.
Buy or Lease?
Are you dead set on purchasing a vehicle, or would you be fine with leasing? With leasing, you can drive a nicer vehicle for far less money than you would pay to buy one. Instead of owning the car, you’ll rent it. It not only gives you more options, but it’s a temporary ride, meaning if you decide that it’s not the car for you, then no harm done! You’re not stuck with it and won’t have to worry about selling it.
The perks of buying are pretty obvious since you’ll eventually end up spending less money on the vehicle if you pay it off and continue driving it for a while. The professionals over at privateauto.com make buying and selling cars look easy, so there’s no need to fret if you end up wanting to sell the car you’ve purchased in the end. Consider whether or not you’ll want to customize the vehicle or how long you’ll need it. Mull over your finances, and then you’ll know what’s best.
Understand Your Needs
Are you going to be hauling anything or do you just need a reliable car that’s good on gas mileage? SUVs can be great for traveling, but they’re also gas guzzlers, so it’s important to weigh your needs and wants as well. If you’ve got the precious cargo, and safety is your top priority, then an SUV or minivan might be worth the high gas mileage.
Consider a Range of Cars
Maybe you’ve wanted a certain car for as long as you can remember. Humans have a tendency to get locked into the idea of a car, but this fantasy could cost you much more than necessary. You could find a car that’s similar in make or model that’s just as reliable. When saving for your dream car, take into consideration the option of buying a car that is either similar to what it offers or an earlier model. There aren’t too many differences between certain models of a car, and you could save thousands by going with an older one rather than the latest.
Always Test Drive
This should go without saying, but it’s one of the most important parts of buying a car. Do not let your first drive be the drive home. Take your potential baby out for a test run. Listen to its engine, brakes, and feel how smoothly it runs. Also, be sure to check out that sunroof!
Check for Safety
This should honestly be first on the list. It’s easy to disregard the airbags, seatbelts and other safety features a car has. We just expect those things to work. Make sure you check the airbag lights and that the seatbelts are functional. They could literally save your life one day.
Get a Mechanic’s Opinion
If you can, get a mechanic, or at least someone who’s well-versed in the ins and outs of an engine, to go with you to look at the car. This will ensure that anything you could've missed gets seen. It’s okay if you know nothing about cars, but it’s never fun getting duped.
Examine the Bell’s and Whistles
Make sure all the locks lock, the windows open, and the buttons actually work. A broken headlight or blinker could cost you a pricey ticket. Maybe it won’t change your decision to buy, but it can definitely get you a better deal.
Evaluate the Mileage
Always check how many miles are on the car. It’s also important to know what these miles mean. And they typically won’t mean the same thing from one car to another. 150k miles on a Toyota is not the same thing as 150k miles on a Pontiac. To understand how long your chosen car can go and if the asking price is a good deal in reference to the mileage.
If you see these basic points during your buying process, then you should be able to make an educated decision. Remember to always put safety first and make sure your new ride’s safety features are intact.