Finding a new car can be quite a challenge. What do you look for? What are the most important things to consider? And how do you find what you want?
Thankfully, our simple guide has the answer for you below!
What to Search for in a Car
The Make, Model & Year
Everyone has their own idea of what they want in a car. You’re the same. So the best starting point is to determine what you want in a vehicle. Do you have a family and require a large SUV or van? Are you into the outdoors and need a 4WD? Or are you looking just to speed around in the sports car?
Know what you want by looking at the latest makes, models and years. Consider the manufacturer and what you should expect from their vehicles. Once you have a list of cars that fit your profile, your search can begin easily.
The Features
Every car comes loaded with new features: rear-view screen, Bluetooth connection, advanced safety features, keyless entry and push-button start, navigation systems, smartphone integration, cruise control, automatic emergency braking, heated seats – the list is endless. The problem for you is determining which of these features suits what you want.
In some vehicles, you might find all of them. In others, you might only find a handful. You should make a list of the must-have features you want in a car so that you can streamline your search. It will also help you eliminate vehicles that fit your profile or encourage you to spend a touch more to get a car that has what you want.
The Budget
New cars benefit from warranty coverage for years, with all mechanic services covered by the manufacturer and/or dealership. It’s a win-win situation that works for you in the long run.
But you still have a budget for what you should spend on the initial outlay on the vehicle, and its long-term costs. Crunch the numbers and see what falls into your bracket. This will help with your search.
How to Find Your New Car
There are three ways to find a new car, each with its own pros and cons. Let’s take a look at each of them below:
Use the Internet
Let’s start with the most common and used method to find a new car: the internet. Jump online, and all it takes is a few clicks to find a new car, with the likes of Cars.com and Auto Trader streamlining your search for you.
While it might be the easiest and most enjoyable solution, all the work falls on your plate. It’s up to you to search online through thousands of cars to find one that suits your needs while being within your budget. Then, you’ll have to inspect the cars in-person to ensure you’re getting what you want.
Visit Dealerships
Not all new cars can be seen online. Many of them are still stored away or just sitting nicely in a dealership lot. So, you can hit the road and visit all the dealerships within your local area that have the car you want for sale.
In many cases, you might find deals available at the dealership. This can include free warranty, extra services or a reduced price. You can also negotiate with the salesperson, so you get the most out of your money. However, that can be draining and tiresome, so it’s best to prepare for it beforehand.
Maximize a Car Buying Service
Imagine the ease of online shopping with the simplicity of direct buying. That’s what you’ll get with a car buying service, also known as a car concierge. Some of the most popular options include Carismo, Car Pal and myHopscotch.
Each of these services works similarly: you submit a form detailing your wants and needs, then the service provider will search for your car and contact dealerships before emailing you a list of cars that match your search. All you have to do is book a test drive. It’s that easy.
The only downside is the fee that is attached to the service. But that’s a small price to pay for letting everything be handled for you, helping you find and buy your dream new car.