Buying your First Car

ADVICE ON BUYING YOUR FIRST CAR

Buying a first car is something that many Canadians look forward to each year.

If you are preparing to purchase your first automobile, here is some advice that may come in handy:

  • Make needs a priority, not wants.

    If you’re looking to buy a car, don’t just think about what your wants are. Think instead how important needs are. Vehicles come with all sorts of amazing features and accessories, but consider all the basic requirements. These are things like driving habits or budget, consider all factors before making your final decision.

  • Conduct proper research.

    The information-gathering stage of the buying process is a great time to do research on any car brands, dealerships and manufacturers. There is a wealth of information available about auto brands, dealers and manufacturers. Don’t neglect the information-gathering stage of the buying process. Read automotive magazines and online reviews. Visit manufacturers’ and dealerships’ websites, YouTube channels and other social media sites.

  • Ownership costs.

    Low interest rates and high rebate figures are attractive, but those incentives don’t tell the whole story about car ownership costs. There are many hidden expenses that come with buying or operating your vehicle (i.e., insurance, cost of borrowing fuel maintenance repairs). Be sure to establish a budget before you buy so stick within it!

  • Financing.

    Credit worthiness determines whether a bank will extend someone credit to purchase a vehicle, and on what terms. Maintaining good credit history is critical in obtaining financing approval. Know your credit history before you initiate the sales process.

    If you’d like to get your free credit check, click here This is a soft credit check and will not affect your credit score.

  • Choose a reputable dealership.

    Dealerships do their best to offer a great customer experience. They work with all types of buyers, from first-time car shoppers who are just looking around the lot and testing out different makes/models until they find something perfect for them; or repeat customers that know exactly what features matter most in any given situation. Buying a vehicle from a private seller is an option, but remember when you choose to buy privately, there are no consumer protections and it is always buyer beware.

  • Vehicle reports.

    Purchasers of pre-owned vehicles should request a CarFax report to determine a vehicle’s true condition and history. CarFax adds full transparency and confidence to the buying process.

  • The right fit.

    Test drive several vehicles before making your decision. Comfort level is very important. If something doesn’t feel right during a test drive (seating, instrumentation, blind spots, head room etc.) don’t imagine that these issues will improve over time.

 

Enjoy the experience.  Buying your first car is thrilling. The process is fun but can become intimidating. Don’t let industry jargon scare you. Proceed at your own pace and if there is anything you don’t understand, ask a friend, family member, or one of your dealership members for help!