Taking The Steps To Buying A New Car In 2012

Because the investment in a new car is a major one for most households, you need to take time and do research before laying any money down. Online and in person research and asking friends and family for recommendations are the best ways to start, followed by test drives of the models you have narrowed it down to. Understanding your basic needs in a vehicle – as well as your wants – if you can afford them helps narrow down the vehicle search.
Finding a car with a good auto warranty is also a part of the investment as well as knowing what you need in a car – storage space, good mileage, area to carry the dogs around with you, etc.

You will need to keep the cost of the vehicle and its monthly bill in mind when beginning your shopping trip. Financial professionals agree that your car payment, including insurance costs, shouldn’t exceed 20% of your monthly household budget. Don’t let yourself get caught up in accessories and other items the dealer may try to sell you if the price is out of your range. Your current vehicle might also have trade in value and that can help lower the cost of your new car. Talking with your insurance agent once you’ve narrowed down the choice of vehicles is something you must do because a new car will likely impact your annual insurance rates.

Knowing the use for your vehicle is also a consideration when you’re shopping; whether for commuting, carpooling or pleasure use, what you plan to use the car the most for will have an impact on the kind of car you need. Don’t forget to decide what you truly need as accessories and features in your new car. Do you need heated seats, auto-start, Bluetooth capabilities or do you just want them? Accessories can dramatically inflate the cost of the car.

New or used is also a decision you need to make when shopping for a new vehicle. Bear in mind that even a used vehicle might come with an auto warranty and that is a great investment. Price point is certainly a consideration when deciding between new and used cars. A new car will be equipped with the latest features but the difference in price could be worth it.

Don’t make any hasty decisions on the car you’re considering before you check resale and trade in values. Most importantly, look at the safety features of the car itself. Safety ratings need to be paramount as well as the pricing. After you’ve looked at all of these issues, you can begin negotiating for your new vehicle.