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Car Buying Guide and Tips at
Emergencybrake.com
Principle #1: Reseraching
Principle #2: Choosing a Car
Principle #3: Advanced Negotiation Tactics
Principle #4:
Principal #5:
Principle #6:
Principle #2:
Choosing a Car
Once you have done your research and have a good idea of what you are
looking for in a new or used vehicle, it is then time to begin looking at
vehicles. Whether you are going to a dealership, dealing with private
owners, or looking on the internet for a vehicle, there are a few things
that must be done before you sign your name on the line.
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The first, and most obvious pre-buying task, is the test drive. Whether
you are buying new or used, the test drive is truly one of the most
important steps you will take on the path to buying a vehicle. If you
are buying from a dealership, before you ever step on their lot, you
have done your research and know what you want. You are the one in
charge—never forget that. If a salesperson approaches within
minutes (or seconds) of your arrival, be polite, but be firm from the
start. It is probably better to get their help finding the vehicle(s)
you are looking for, but at this point that is up to you. If you plan
on buying from a private owner, be sure to focus on vehicles in your
area so that it is feasible to test-drive and inspect a good number of
vehicles. Since the object at this stage in the purchase process is for
you to take a test-drive, then that is what you should do.
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If you are looking at brand new vehicles, make sure the ones that you
test drive meet your desired specifications. That is, make sure that
the vehicles you test drive have the trim packages, options, and engines
that you have researched, and at this point do not worry about color.
It is always best to test drive the vehicle without the salesperson. If
they say it is against their policy to let you take the car on your own,
go to a different dealer if possible. During the test-drive you should
truly “test” the car. Don’t neglect safety, but do make some sharp
turns and sudden stops. Take the vehicle onto the highway or interstate
and give it a little. Before you buy a car you have to know how it will
perform, and this is easier to do without the salesperson eyeballing
you.
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If you are looking to buy a used vehicle from a dealership, it is key
that you take the test-drive without the salesperson. And just as it is
with buying a new car, the whole object of the test-drive is to totally
scrutinize the cars performance. Get a good feeling for the power,
acceleration, handling, and braking for each of the cars you test. If
you are buying from a private owner, make sure that they have insurance,
and do not expect them to let you take the vehicle for a test-drive
without them. Also, it is prudent to ask their permission to take the
vehicle on the highway or interstate, or to “test’ the speed, handling,
and braking.
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There are some additional things you must do if you are purchasing a
used vehicle. During the test-drive, you need to take the vehicle to a
mechanic. Preferably, this step will be prearranged with a mechanic you
know and trust. Generally, a certified mechanic will check the major
systems of the vehicle in a short period of time and give you a good
idea of what you are dealing with. Expect to pay an between $25-$40 for
this service, which is well worth it, but some mechanics may do this for
free. Do not buy a used vehicle without taking it to a mechanic,
even if the dealership says the car is “certified” or has passed a 5,000
point inspection. Just because a vehicle is a “certified” used car does
not mean that the vehicle has been checked thoroughly or that it has not
been wrecked. Also, “certified” does not by itself mean there is any
guarantee or warranty on the vehicle.
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If you are buying a used car, you will also want to get a vehicle
history report. We recommend using the Auto Check service at
experian.com or Carfax.com. This is another safety precaution that will
help to ensure that you do not buy a lemon or a vehicle that has been
wrecked or flooded. Again, taking the time to do this is well worth the
benefits. In addition to getting a vehicle history report, you can
check the vehicle yourself for signs of flood or wreck damage. Signs of
flood damage might include mildewed carpet, excessive rust, or
discoloration on engine, parts or wheel wells. Signs of a previously
wrecked vehicle might include poor body work or paint job--look for
overspray. When you are looking under the hood make sure the paint on
all of the panels matches.
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To even consider buying a particular car, you should answer for yourself
the following questions: Does this car meet or exceed your needs? Do
you feel like you are getting the best deal? Can you see yourself
driving in this vehicle (Is it a good fit for your personality and
lifestyle)? Do you see yourself owning this vehicle for several years?
If you cannot answer yes to these questions you may want to consider
other vehicles as well. So much of the purchase depends on your needs,
wants, and perceptions of various vehicles.
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Also, you should check to make sure everything works. Test the radio/CD
player, test the windows and locks, test the signals, test the cigarette
lighter (even if you don’t smoke, you may need this outlet to power
something), test the emergency brake, test the seats. Once you have
narrowed down and are considering a vehicle, inspect every last inch of
it. You would be surprised to know just how many people don’t invest
the time to do this. Test and Inspect Everything. This step
helps eliminate unpleasant surprises that can pop up after you have
bought a vehicle.
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