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Tips for Buying a New Car<br />
By: BJ Killeen / Down the Road<br />
We’ve all either heard or experienced horror<br />
stories when it comes<br />
to buying a new car.<br />
Because of the microchip<br />
shortage, “market adjustment” prices on vehicles<br />
are absurd.<br />
Luckily, vehicle production is up, which means<br />
the buyer will be back in the driver’s seat soon.<br />
But that doesn’t mean dealers will be giving away<br />
cars again.<br />
The key to making a smart purchase is<br />
understanding what you can afford and knowing<br />
the right questions to ask.<br />
It’s important that you do your homework<br />
first. Decide on a budget. How much car can you<br />
afford?<br />
Don’t think about monthly payments. Most<br />
dealerships make money if you finance through them, but you may<br />
not get the best deal if you have a less-than-ideal credit score.<br />
Secure your loan through your bank or a credit union. That’s where<br />
you’ll find better finance deals. Even if you can pay cash, you’ll want<br />
to get a price before letting the dealer know how you’re going to pay.<br />
Next, make a list of features you like in your current car, what you<br />
would like in your next car that you don’t have now, what you must<br />
have, and features you can live without. Heated<br />
seats are nice to have, but not necessary. The<br />
more features, the higher the price.<br />
Visit manufacturer websites and build and<br />
price the model you want. You’ll at least have<br />
some idea going in of the vehicle’s value.<br />
Test drive the exact car you are buying. On<br />
paper it might look good, but driving it will tell<br />
you if it’s quiet enough for you, if it’s easy to drive,<br />
and how well you can see out the front and back.<br />
Finally, never ever be afraid to get up and<br />
walk out if you don’t like the deal. Good sales<br />
consultants will work with you to keep your<br />
business, plus they also need referrals. Bad<br />
dealerships don’t deserve your time.<br />
Don’t be intimidated! Good luck and drop me<br />
an email if you have further questions about new<br />
or used-car purchasing.<br />
BJ Killeen has been an automotive journalist for over 30 years.<br />
She welcomes all questions and inquiries, and can be reached at<br />
bjkdtr@gmail.com<br />
28<br />
<strong>April</strong> <strong>2023</strong>
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