Buying a car is a big decision, and it's important to make sure you have all the information you need to make the right choice. Here are 10 steps to help you through the car-buying process. First, determine your shopping style. Do you prefer to shop online or in person? Knowing your shopping style will help you narrow down your shopping list.
Next, calculate a price you can afford. Your credit score, monthly income, and the type of car you want should all be factored into this decision. Aim for a balance between adjusting to your budget and finding a car that is right for your needs. The down payment for your future vehicle is the initial lump sum you pay for it.
Try to cover at least 20% of the purchase price, which may take some time. If you can't wait, you can make a lower down payment, but you may not get a good rate with your lender. In this case, consider a less expensive vehicle. When buying a new car, you'll need proof of insurance.
Call your insurance agent beforehand to speed up the buying process and avoid dealership delays. Ask them how you can prepare to remove your old vehicle and add your new vehicle to your policy. Be sure to bring your current proof of insurance card to the dealership. If you plan to get a loan through the dealership, you'll need your most recent pay stubs and proof of current residence.
It's best to aim for an aggressive repayment program to keep up with depreciation. Try to pay for new cars in 60 months and do your best to target around 36 months for used cars. The first step in the process should be to research each and every car model that interests you. Cast a wide net and look at as many car brands and styles as possible.
You may be surprised to discover suitable vehicles in brand selections that you would otherwise never have considered before. After launching your initial network quite wide, narrow your search down to a short list of just a handful of vehicles, maybe 3 at most. Prioritize car features over pure aesthetics or brand recognition. Reflect on how a car's features benefit your particular lifestyle - fuel efficiency if you have long trips to work and high annual mileage, cargo space if you have a large family, etc.If you plan to get a loan through the dealership, consider getting an auto loan pre-approved by a bank or credit union first.
This way, you can set a budget cap that helps you negotiate without straying beyond the boundaries of affordability.Research and get insurance policy quotes for your pre-selected cars that you could accept when the time comes and make your decision. Most new cars have a defense-to-defense warranty that covers at least three years and 36,000 miles, along with a powertrain warranty that typically lasts up to 60,000 miles.Many automotive sites and car buying apps have a car search tool to help you identify strong candidates, as well as detailed rankings and research guides. This helps buyers focus on negotiating a good price for a vehicle and making the car-buying process less stressful.If you're going to change your current vehicle when you buy your new car, prepare yourself with extra paperwork and preparation beforehand. This step is vital to saving money and giving you control when choosing the best financing option available.Finally, be aware of other costs involved in buying a car - financing charges and optional add-ons such as extended warranties - as well as state and local taxes and registration fees which will not be negotiable.Buying a car can be daunting but arming yourself with knowledge about what steps to take will save you money in the long run.
