Then again, other folks might stroll into a dealership on a Saturday morning and roll out in the afternoon, their wallets a little lighter and smelling that new car smell. And with the power of the Internet, folks can now buy cars online and skip the in-person experience altogether. So what is the optimal time frame for researching and buying a car if you want to do your due diligence as a consumer and factor in all the necessary steps?
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We decided to tease out the process step by step and compile a straightforward checklist and timeline based on best practices for the average shopper. Average time: 11 hours for steps 1— Spread out your research so you can think about your options as you go. See our shopping guide for more details. Before you even scope out different models, you need to have an idea of what you plan to spend — no more than 20 percent of your net monthly income is a good limit, says Kelley Blue Book.
News has a helpful vehicle cost calculator that factors in taxes and loans, too. Remember to factor in vehicle maintenance, repair costs, gas, and insurance more on that below. Once you know your budget and how you plan to pay, you can decide whether new or used is right for you. To help narrow down your options:.
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Look online, visit dealerships, and talk to friends and family. You might find much more flexibility in price with some dealers than others particularly if you expand your shopping range geographically. Try Kelley Blue Book , Edmunds. Instead, arrive at the lot armed with the fair market price and negotiate from that number instead. Using The Zebra , you can get quotes in just minutes and compare.
Make sure you know important rating information such as your driving history, general credit score range, and preferred coverage levels so you can ensure your quote is as accurate as possible.
Because auto insurance is our expertise, we created a car insurance buying guide to help you understand what you need and what you can afford. The steps, in a nutshell:. When you know what car you want to purchase, look into private financing. Before visiting any dealerships, which usually offer financing, consider seeing what rates your personal bank or a credit union can offer you.
Get a Demo - Part of the salesperson's job is to acquaint you with your new car's features and how each one operates. Ask him to demonstrate the car fully, and top to bottom, in order to understand how everything works on the vehicle. Visit the Service Department: We recommend meeting the service manager and getting familiar with the service center facilities. Check the car again: A lot could have happened between the pre-registration inspection and today. Even the interiors should be squeaky clean.
Check that all lights and electric accessories are working fine. Confirm that all the accessories you ordered are fitted on the car. Check that the spare wheel is fresh. And that all related tools spanner, jack etc.
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Are there wheel locks? If so, ensure that the lug key is there in the car. What is the mileage on your car? It should not be more than a km or in the whereabouts for most brands.
Buying a new car checklist
Ensure that there is enough fuel in the car. At least to get you to the nearest petrol pump. Somehow, most new cars are delivered with over-inflated tyres by the showroom. Check the tyre pressure and make the necessary adjustments.
Buying a new car? Use this point checklist make the most of your test drive
Tally your car's registration number on the R. Book, with the number plate. Dealers are known for their carelessness here. Read the paperwork! Don't take anybody's word for anything. Make sure all the blanks in the contract are filled in. Sales certificate. We may receive a commission payment from the finance provider if you decide to enter into an agreement with them. Driving Seat. Buying tips. Share this article via Email Your Name:. Friend's Name:. Friend's Email Address:.