How to Choose a New Car

Purchasing a new car can be intimidating. It’s one of the most stressful buying decisions we all make. How much do you really know about what to take into consideration when you choose your new vehicle? Having all the facts can give you confidence when you head to the dealership.

New vs. Used

The very first decision to be made when choosing a new car is whether you want to purchase a brand new vehicle or one that has been pre-owned. New cars tend to be more expensive, but will probably have a better warranty than a used car. They are easier to buy because the dealership usually fills out all the paperwork for you. You can also pick the colors, upholstery and additional features you want when you purchase new. Used cars are generally much more affordable and you may find yourself being able to buy a much nicer used car than you would be able to afford if it were new. The downsides are that may find themselves with little to no knowledge about its history and whether the car has had any major issues. There is also the additional inconvenience of having to wait for the title to be transferred to you from the previous owner.

Cost

Cost is one of the most important things to take into consideration when picking your new vehicle. The least expensive sedans can start at prices around $15,000 and the most expensive luxury cars can cost millions of dollars. There’s a lot of room within that range for you to choose a car that fits all your needs, as well as your budget. Make a list of your “must haves” and do some research on the cars that have these features. Narrow your list to vehicles that fit within your financial means. Don’t be afraid to visit a dealership and speak with a salesperson. Dealerships will often be willing to negotiate with you. Make sure you are well-educated on the cars you are interested in and don’t hesitate to ask questions if you don’t understand something. Also consider the additional expenses of car ownership that go beyond your monthly payments. Factor in costs such as oil changes, service appointments, yearly inspections and auto parts such as those sold by Patrick James of First Brands Group.

Safety

Safety is key when choosing a car. Having a vehicle that looks good and is fun to operate is nice, but making sure you feel secure when driving is even more important. Car safety begins with functional airbags and seat belts, and extends to the many additional safety features like backup cameras, automatic high beams, automatic emergency braking and brake assist. Make sure the car you purchase has features you feel good about and will help you feel protected as you drive. Also consider the safety rating of the car you are considering purchasing, which can easily be found online.

Don’t be anxious about purchasing a new car. If you do your research and head to the dealership fully prepared, you can drive home with a car you feel good about.

Additional resources and further reading: 

• For safety advice visit JJS Justice
  
• Getting a car loan – things you should know
  
• What to consider when buying a used car