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With countless car models out there and fresh designs popping up all the time, figuring out where to begin can be a real challenge. It’s so overwhelming that many drivers end up sticking with the same model they had before, totally overlooking newer and possibly better options. Others rely on friends’ suggestions or go for whatever looks good, thanks to flashy ads.
But there’s a smarter way to find the perfect ride – one that’s practical but still leaves some room for enjoyment. Just follow the steps below.
How often do you hit the mountains, tow a trailer, or haul lumber? If you go for a ride that claims to do it all, you’ll end up overpaying for more features than you need.
In life, we have needs and wants. When you’re car shopping, figure out if you need a vehicle. If the answer is yes, then start thinking about what type fits your lifestyle. Jot down those essentials on paper. Sticking to this list will guide you toward the right choice.
Your choice is easy if you have a big family that requires plenty of space, but if you’re a solo traveler and love weekend off-roading adventures, you probably want a vehicle with four-wheel drive.
If you’re like many folks out there wanting a car that can handle anything, you need to set some priorities. Generally speaking, there’s one primary use that accounts for about 80% of your driving needs. For instance, most people rely on their cars mainly for commuting or shuttling kids around after school. So highlight that primary purpose at the top of your “needs” list and consider everything else lovely additions.
Unless you have a big stash of cash, you’ll likely need to grab a car loan. It’s a good idea to keep all your monthly car costs, such as the loan payment, insurance, gas, upkeep, repairs, and registration, under 20% of what you take home each month. Use a car loan calculator to see what price range will get you a monthly payment that fits smoothly into your budget. Try not to give in to the urge to extend the loan beyond 60 months (or five years) so that you can get that pricier ride.
Many car websites offer handy tools to help you narrow down your search by price, type of vehicle, and specific features. Start by listing five cars you want to check out and looking at reviews from experts and everyday drivers.
Even if you feel confident about your top choice, checking out other models is wise. The market is packed these days, and you might find something that fits your needs even better than what you initially thought was the best option. Take your time with this part. Once you drive off in a new car, you’ll live with it for quite a while.
Car salespeople often say, “The feel of the wheel will seal the deal,” and there’s some truth to that. Here’s a simple tip to make booking a test drive easy: Pick a weekday morning when the car lots aren’t crowded, and give the dealership’s internet department a ring. Let them know you want to set up some test drives but are not ready to buy just yet since you’re still checking out different models. Take your three top picks for a drive one after another, so everything stays fresh in your mind.
After you finish your test drives, it’s a good idea to step out of the dealership. If you’re still on the fence about which car to choose, head back to the car finder and explore some new options. But if you’ve decided, it’s time to dive into negotiating the deal.
Whether you realize it or not, your gut feelings and emotions will influence your decision. And that’s fine – enjoy the process. Just ensure you handle the practical stuff first before getting swept away by excitement. This way, you’ll end up with a car that not only brings you joy but also perfectly meets your needs.
At “Volkswagen of South Mississippi, you’ll discover the ride you’ve been looking for. Swing by to check out our range of new Volkswagen cars. We can’t wait to see you at our showroom in D’Iberville, MS.
