Car Buying Tips

There's no doubt about it, buying a new or used car is a big commitment, both financially and emotionally. If you're like most of us you are  likely to keep your car for 5 years or more, and that's a long time to live with a car that just isn't right for you. So where do you start? How do you narrow your short list of vehicles to just one?

It can seem like a daunting task at first, but with the use of the below guides you can be confident that the vehicle you choose will be just right for you. To get started choose choose whether you're looking for a new or used car below.

 

 In deciding it's important to think about:

What type of car you really need

There seem to be unlimited choices when you are looking for a car. A few well placed questions will narrow the playing field and help you decide exactly what it is you are looking for.

What you drive now?

Does the car you are driving currently fulfil all your wants and needs? Or are you constantly wishing for bigger boot space, or more seating? The answer could be as simple as going for a newer model of the car you already drive, if you trust the brand and are happy with what your current vehicle provides. Write a list about what you like about your current car, and what you don’t like. Keep these things in mind as you move through the steps, because you don’t want to end up choosing something with the same limitations.

Why are you looking for a new car?

Your old car might be… well… old. It might be time for a change. You might be moving into a new job, and need something a bit more professional. Or your might have a baby on the way, and need something with some more space. This should be an important factor to consider when you are choosing which car to buy.

What is the most important feature you want in your new purchase?

It might be price, it might be boot space. You might be a Ford girl through and through. Write down the most important things you want in your purchase. These will help narrow down the choices to something you want.

Body style

Here is where we start getting down to the nitty gritty. If you need more people space, you don’t want to buy a hatchback and there’s no use considering a four wheel drive if you have a really small car port.

The Engine

They may be confusing things, but you want to make sure you get the right one! If you are driving around in a four cylinder car and feel like you need a bit more power, you might want to go for a six cylinder. If you are concerned about the amount of petrol you use, you might not want to go for a V8.

What do you want in your car?

Are there any added extras that you just can’t do without? Keep in mind, there is no such thing as the perfect car. More features are standard these days, so you shouldn’t have to make that much of a compromise when it comes down to making a decision.

Going Green?

You may be concerned about the environment and interested in driving a Green vehicle. See our Green section for a list of cars that fit the bill. This will narrow your choice down quite a bit, but it will also reduce your impact on the environment.

Put it all Together!

You have a list of what you want, not put it together to find a set of cars that fit the bill! It’s time to research. Take note of our Car Comparison Chart, an easy way to record the vehicles you like and compare their have’s and have not’s in one easy spreadsheet.