Author Archives: Russ Baker

Do Not Get Ripped Off On Your Next Car

Cars come in many varieties. There are new cars, used cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs. Buying just one of these kinds of vehicles warrants good decision making, as the car is a life long investment. You can make wiser purchasing decisions by reading this article, as it contains advice that can be applied to car shopping.

Don’t let a salesperson talk you into purchasing a vehicle that you are unable to afford. Sports cars look nice and you can be sweet talked into such a purchase. Remember, the more expensive the car, the more commission he or she will make.

Do not make the mistake of believing that you have to pay the full asking price for a used car. There should always be room for negotiation. if a car has been on the market for a while with no buyers, that will make the seller more likely to accept an offer of less than they are asking for.

You should have a good idea of the kind of vehicle you want before going to a dealership. Read up online ahead of time to make an informed decision. You can also get a good idea of the expected price range of your desired car, so you won’t be caught unawares by a slick salesperson.

Know what you want before you step foot in a dealership. You are going to be dealing with professional salespeople, so have your mind made up about what you are willing to pay, what you want and what you are not interested in. That will make it less likely for them to sway you.

Bring a friend on your shopping trip. They may hear things you miss and will help make it easier to turn down a deal, should it be an unfavorable one. You could take your buddy, a family member or a spouse.

Before you even walk out the door to go to the different dealerships to search for an automobile to purchase, do your homework. If you have a specific car make and model that you are considering buying, do some background research. Have there been numerous recalls for this vehicle. What do current and former owners of this make and model say about their automobile?

Only use reviews on the internet as a general guide. A lot of people when they have problems with a car will post negative reviews on the internet. So look at all the reviews for common problems as opposed to a general ranking. If there is a problem with a major component, then probably find a different vehicle.

Never take a car at face value. Though you may not be a mechanic, it is a good idea to do a thorough inspection of the vehicle. An important part of the inspection is a test drive. This allows you to feel the car on the road, listen for any wayward noises and possible spot issues with performance.

Car shopping can be both exciting and exhausting. Before you even need to leave your home, you can do some shopping around by checking out some comparison websites. There are several online sites that consolidate information from various private owners and dealerships so that you can conduct a side-by-side comparison shopping of different vehicles and their amenities and asking price. You can find a car by reducing options, you may save money and time this way.

If you are trying to determine your trade-in value for your current vehicle, be sure to take it to a few dealers. By going to a few different dealers, you’ll be able to get a rough estimate of how much your car is actually worth. This will allow you to turn down low ball offers that someone may make for your car.

Talk to your bank or credit union before you head out to the dealership when you are in the market for a car. Find out how much of a loan you are eligible for. This way, you will know how much you can afford to spend, and you will know what kind of car to look for.

If you plan to trade in your old car, find out how much it’s worth and factor that into your budget. If you think, your car is worth a lot, and it’s not, you may be in for a shock when you reach the lot. Knowing as much as possible before you leave your house is the key.

Check out multiple dealerships for the car you desire. Once you select which make and model you want, don’t just stick to the closest lot. If there are multiple dealers of that brand, check them all out. Don’t forget to check out used lots as well, they often offer great bargains on cars which will drive for a long time to come.

Don’t let the salesperson know you have a trade in until you have a firm sales price in hand. Some dealers will inflate the price if they think you’re trading in a car, so they can offer you a lot for the trade in, which is, then balanced by the new price they give on the car they’re selling.

Check out how much repairs on a car would cost before buying it. You should be able to get a fair idea of what kinds of costs you will have to pay for repairs. And that’s not just for when it is under warranty. What happens when you have to pay full price for an ignition coil? Different cars cost different amounts, so find out.

To ensure that your car shopping process yield the best possible selection for you and your family; think carefully about your driving and lifestyle habits. Deliberately considering the sort of use the vehicle is likely to get will help you choose the right one. Failure to keep factors such as fuel-efficiency or hauling capacity in mind while shopping can cause you to purchase something that ends up being impractical for your daily requirements.

Remember, many kinds of cars exist, and you have to think carefully before you buy any type of car. The car you choose should last you for many years, therefore you have to make the right choice about the kind of car you want to buy. Keep the featured car shopping advice in mind and you’ll get the car you need.

Need To Shop For A New Car? Read This First!

As you buy a car, your main priority is likely to be good value. It’s not easy when you have nagging salesmen trying to squeeze every last dime out of you. However, with a bit of know-how, you can do it.

Learn about the true market value of the car before making an offer. Oftentimes, dealers will have the car marked up a certain percent over the value so they have some wiggle room. If you know the market value, you can better haggle with them about the price you will pay out the door.

Check out the maker’s site if you want to customize your car. While the cars on the dealership lot may be the kind of car, you want, a number of car manufacturers give you the opportunity to customize the car a bit with color and features. You may have to wait a few weeks more to get your car, but it might be worth it.

Take a look at owner reviews before selecting the car you want to buy. These can be found online, at many different websites. Owner reviews give you a good idea about how much others enjoy the car, and if they would recommend it to friends and family. They offer a different perspective than professional reviews, and they are very informative for anyone who is car shopping.

Never limit your options when shopping for a car, and that means not settling on a dealership if you don’t have to. You can also shop at small lots or buy from private owners. Use social networking sites and classifieds to help you find the car you want at a good price.

Avoid being distracted when you are shopping at a car lot. With so many vehicles available, it is easy for all your research and planning to go out the window. Remember, you should have a clear idea of the vehicle you want before you set foot on the lot, and do not let the salesperson steer you from your goal.

Always take any used car you are thinking of buying to a mechanic that you trust. Do not take the dealers word that the car is in good condition. They might have only owned the car for a few days or bought it from an auction. They really have very little knowledge of the vehicle you are trying to buy.

Before you go shopping for a new or used car, assess your budget. You must know just how much you can afford to spend. You should establish a monthly budget for your car payments and your insurance. You need to secure a loan before shopping for cars.

If you are absolutely in love with a certain color or interior finish, don’t settle for less. Though the specific vehicle that you want might not be in stock at your local dealership, ask them if they can get it for you. Most dealerships have relationships with other dealerships and will trade vehicles back and forth. Keep in mind though, you might end up paying a little bit extra to cover some of the costs of the trade.

Set a spending limit before shopping for your new car. It is easy to get swayed by pushy salesmen or a nice leather interior, but it is important that you stay within your budget. You may like the cause of spending extra, but you will not like it when it comes time to pay for it.

When purchasing a car, be wary of the age and mileage warranty of the vehicle. In most cases, you are likely to hit the mileage first so make sure you understand exactly how long you are likely to be covered before making a decision on what vehicle you will purchase.

Try to avoid an as-is warranty at all costs when car shopping. You will end up regretting this decision. At minimum, a dealer should provide you with a warranty of 30-90 days upon purchasing any vehicle. If the vehicle needs a major repair a day or two after you buy it, you will have to pay for the repair.

If you see two price stickers on a car in a lot, you might want to head to a different location. This is a sign of a high pressure sales force who wants you to buy all the bells and whistles. If you think you can withstand their tactics, you can stay, but you may not get the best deal there.

If you feel intimidated or bullied, leave them. If they attempt to encourage you to change your mind, leave anyway. Lie if you must. Make sure that you leave! There are many other options, and if a salesperson feels the need to intimidate you, they probably need to make up for the low quality of their vehicles.

Look around online for prices on cars near where you live. Sometimes, nearby cities will provide you with a significant discount. Online pricing information gives you a clearer picture about where you should look for your next vehicle.

Never give your trade-in’s keys to the dealer before you’ve come to an agreement. The dealer could take your keys (and thus, your car) hostage and manipulate you into an unfair deal. Always hold on to your keys and if the dealer wants to take a look inside the car, open it up for them while you hold the keys.

When you buy a car, you will be handed a lengthy contract. Learn what it all means before you set foot on the lot. You can find information about each element on the contract online, that way you’ll know what is being offered to you and what is being asked of you as a buyer.

When you get financing from a dealership, you must scrutinize the contract you are offered. You need to know how much you’re being given, what the interest rate is, how soon it is due in full, how much the payments are, when the payments are due, what happens when you miss a payment, etc.

This article should help you learn how to handle the car dealer when you are buying a car. This helps you to avoid the most common tactics they are known for. Keep these tips in mind and get out there!

Tips To Buying A New Car Or Truck

Congratulations on your decision to buy a new car. Once you obtain your vehicle, you can drive on the open roads and feel the wind in your hair. There are a few things to consider before you buy the car. Read the following article for some car shopping tips that might help you when it’s time to buy.

Establish a budget before you go car shopping so you have a great idea of what is in your price range. Try your best to stay within your budget. If you must go over, the amount that you go over should not be so significant that it puts you in a financial bind.

Never, ever skip the test drive when you are car shopping. You have to get behind the wheel of that car and see how it feels before committing to a buying it. Make sure you try a variety of driving conditions, including surface streets and interstate driving. Do not forget to try pulling it into a parking space in a shopping center.

Watch out for the up sells in the financing office. When you reach the financing office, you will always be offered an extended warranty, interior protection, gap insurance and other such add ons. Make sure that you understand these well before making a decision to purchase them. Most are not worth the money you will spend, and you’re better off saving each month in the event that you need a repair or your interior gets a stain.

Before signing any contract take the time to read every line, including the fine print. If there is anything listed that you do not understand, do not sign until you get an answer that you understand. Unsavory salesmen can use a contract to insert many fees that were not discussed.

Research trade-in prices before turning over your older vehicle. If you are planning on trading in your current vehicle to go towards the purchase price of your new one, be armed with the proper value ahead of time. Checking prices online or using the Kelley Blue Book. Just make sure you are checking the wholesale price, not retail.

If the price of a car is non-negotiable, see if you can negotiate on other terms. Some dealerships will agree to provide several months’ worth of free gasoline or a year of free oil changes, for instance. It never hurts to ask if a salesman can sweeten the deal.

Rent a car in order to test it out. If you want to get a real feel for a car, rent one from a local rental car company to give it an extended test drive. Go on a trip in that car with your family to decide if it fits you well. This can help you feel less stressed when purchasing the car.

Make the right car purchase for yourself by deciding major things before entering a store. This includes things like mileage, make, model and even color. You can do a lot of research online to get an idea of prices and avoid the high pressure situations that come with a car salesman.

Talk to your bank or credit union before you head out to the dealership when you are in the market for a car. Find out how much of a loan you are eligible for. This way, you will know how much you can afford to spend, and you will know what kind of car to look for.

Decide whether you want a used car or a new one. A new car has the obvious advantages, but used cars can be a pretty good deal as well. There are many certified used cars now that have been found to perform well, and cost substantially less than new cars do.

When purchasing a car, do not fall for the salesman’s ploy that you must make a deal now to get the special pricing. Instead, tell the salesman you are going to get something to eat and will return in an hour. This will allow time for your emotional attachment to lessen making you able to negotiate the best terms and price.

Financing is often more affordable when you get it from an institution other than the dealership themselves. The rates they offer aren’t great, but they’re sometimes open to lending you money when your credit is bad, unlike a bank. Check out all of your financing options and find out how much you’ll be approved for before you approach the lot.

Go over every inch of the car you wish to buy. Look for scratches or dents on the outside. Also, search the interior for stains or tears. As soon as you leave the dealership, any problems you find will be your problem. This will include any issues like scratches, dents, and rips.

When it comes to purchasing a car, whether new or pre-owned, you need to beef up on your negotiation skills. Cars are intentionally marked up because the sellers understand that a negotiation must take place. So make sure you NEVER pay sticker price for your vehicle and if you can’t haggle, get someone to do it for you.

Check online car prices in your city as well as in nearby cities. You will find different prices in different zip codes, so driving to another city may get you a better deal. Watching trends online helps to see where you can find the best price.

The first offer a salesman gives you won’t be the lowest possible offer. Make another offer, and the next offer on their part is generally going to be a better one. They don’t want a long, drawn-out negotiation any more than you do, so a couple of offers should get you a good rate.

Buying a car is a monumental time if anyone’s life. You must consider many things before you make a payment on a car, some of which could affect the life of your vehicle and the price you pay for it. Remember the tips that were featured in this article and head to your local dealership today!

Feeling Confused Or Overwhelmed About Buying A Car?

Car shopping should be something you are excited about, not stressed to the max over. When you shop for a car, you do need a little knowledge and some determination and you can come out on top. Read the following article and it will share some things you can do to make the most out of your car shopping experience.

Always ask the seller if they are willing to let you do a test drive. While some private sellers may not offer you the chance to do a test drive, there are many that will. You should try to do your deal with someone who will allow you to see how the car runs.

Don’t be persuaded to sign for a car that your budget cannot afford. A lot of people are swayed into buying a sports car by a salesperson. Remember, the salesperson is after a commission.

Ask the car dealer to show you a vehicle history report. This can tell you if the vehicle has been in an accident or if it has been recalled. It can also show you what repairs have been done and when they were done so that you know exactly what you are buying.

The model you want needs to have the latest safety features. The brakes and suspension are two things to take into account when car shopping. In addition, the car should have multiple air bags. You are going to spend a lot of time in this vehicle, so safety is paramount.

Don’t drive your really expensive car to the dealer when you’re looking to buy another car. They’ll see that nice car and try to give you a bad offer since they think that you’re walking around with quite a bit of money.

Before you go in to look at a new car, make sure you have thoroughly researched the proper trade in value of your current car. In fact, why not try to sell it yourself first before you buy. Either way, you will get more from your vehicle if you know what it is really worth.

Before buying a car, consider the cost of insurance. If you are financing the car, you will probably need comprehensive coverage, in addition to liability protection. Some cars cost significantly more to insure than others. Avoid any surprises by asking your insurance company for a quote before you sign any paperwork.

Is there a specific feature you really want? Is it, heated seats or a sunroof? Before you even approach the lot, find out which cars in your price range actually offer this feature. This will reduce the time spent on the lot looking at cars you don’t want as the feature isn’t available.

Don’t fold to pressure. The salesman doesn’t want you to walk out of his dealership, so he will tell you whatever it takes to get you to sign a contract at that moment. Ignore him. Do what is best for you, and if you need to have some time to think about it, take the time you need.

Although monthly payments are important when considering a new car purchase, many times a dealership will extend the length of the loan and raise the interest rate to get smaller payments. To avoid this do not negotiate payment amounts until you have negotiated the sales price of the vehicle.

Don’t expect to make a purchase in your first dealership. In fact, if you do so, then you are probably making a bad purchase. Shopping around is always important, and this is especially true when it comes to making an intelligent purchase with a car or truck. Take your time and look around.

When purchasing a car, be wary of the age and mileage warranty of the vehicle. In most cases, you are likely to hit the mileage first so make sure you understand exactly how long you are likely to be covered before making a decision on what vehicle you will purchase.

Stand firm on your down payment. Cars can be sold with no down payment; however, some money down will help the final cost. Be wary of sellers who ask you to increase your down payment. This extra money will typically only go into the pocket of the salesperson and dealership, and does not help your bottom line.

Whenever buying a certified pre-owned vehicle, try and find out what the return policy is, or even if one exists. If one does, make sure you understand how long it is and whether or not you will get registration and licence fees refunded along with sales tax for the vehicle.

Research the laws in your state when it comes to purchasing a bad car. There are some states that have lemon laws. They will protect you from buying a car that isn’t in great condition and not being able to get a refund. Not every state has these laws, which is why it is important for you to do your research.

Ask the salesperson tough, detailed questions about the car. Make a list before you go based on internet research so that you know the answers. If they get any wrong, you know you’re dealing with an inexperienced, knowledge lacking sales force, which shows a low-quality dealership is in place.

If you have a few cars in mind that you’d like to look at, be sure to check out the insurance cost first. People tend to forget about the cost of insurance until after they’ve made a purchase. This can lead to having a larger monthly bill than you expected, which may make the car too expensive for your price range.

You should dress well when car shopping, but don’t overdress. The more bling you have, the less likely a good interest rate is headed your way.

As you can see, car shopping does not have to be stressful. There are quiet a few things you can do to make the process go a lot smoother. Use the helpful tips shared in this article and you can be driving off in your shiny new car in no time.

Don’t Pay Sticker Price: Use These Negotiation Tips

If you are thinking about purchasing a new car or truck, then you may be worried about getting ripped off. Everyone has heard stories about car dealerships, but if you are prepared with research and information, you can feel confident about the decisions you make. Read through this article to get that information.

Have a clear understanding of what those upgrades will cost you. Purchasing the fancy stereo, leather seats and DVD player might be appealing, but those options can add a significant amount to the price of your car. Take some time to think about how much you really need the upgrades, and only purchase the ones you will use the most.

Find out about the different warranties that are available. You do not want to spend a couple thousand dollars on a warranty that is not going to cover the repairs that commonly occur. Instead, shop outside of the dealership to find one that will cover the repairs at a better price.

Take someone with you when you are car shopping. It is important to have objective observers during the process. The person could be your spouse, a good friend or even a parent.

When you shop for cars, set aside sufficient time to get the process completed. The only way to come to a decision that you are comfortable with is to take your time. You need at least an entire afternoon. If time is an issue, never hesitate to postpone the process and return another time.

Consider selling your car privately, rather than trading it in for the new car you want. You will almost always get more for your car through a private sale than you would through a trade in. Even if the dealership makes it sound like they are giving you a great trade in value, they will likely raise the price somewhere else to make up for the difference.

Never turn over your trade-in keys to the salesperson before the deal is finalized. Some pushy salespeople will hang onto them in an effort to pressure you into hearing them out, even after you have turned down a deal. Keep the keys in your possession and only hand them over when the deal is done.

Test drive more than one car before you buy it. Any new car is going to feel fantastic if you’re used to driving an old one. Think seriously about how the ride feels, where the buttons are located, and how much of the road you are able to see. Test-driving more than one car will help you realize where you want to be.

Check out multiple dealerships for the car you desire. Once you select which make and model you want, don’t just stick to the closest lot. If there are multiple dealers of that brand, check them all out. Don’t forget to check out used lots as well, they often offer great bargains on cars which will drive for a long time to come.

Many people who have bad credit end up at a buy-here pay-here dealership. Be very careful of these types of dealers. Usually they buy cars at auction for little money and the majority of the money they make is off of the high interest rates they charge. If you have any choice, always get a loan from a bank, not the dealership.

When purchasing a certified pre-owned vehicle that comes with a warranty, make sure you read the fine print. Most warranties on these vehicles only cover power-train and don’t cover much else. There are also cases in which the warranty may not be transferable which would make it void in your case.

Consider skipping the dealership entirely. An auto broker will work with multiple dealerships to find you the best deal on the car you want. You can usually find these online, and the dealerships will pay the fees for their use. This is a good way to comparison shop without having to visit multiple dealerships.

Research the laws in your state when it comes to purchasing a bad car. There are some states that have lemon laws. They will protect you from buying a car that isn’t in great condition and not being able to get a refund. Not every state has these laws, which is why it is important for you to do your research.

If you currently have a car that you want to sell, consider options other than trade ins. If you have a high-demand car, you may be able to sell it on the side and receive a much higher down payment than you would if you simply traded your car in.

If you are planning on using your current car as a trade in, don’t let the dealer know right away. Your first goal is to negotiate down the price of the car you wish to purchase. Information like trade-in value is valuable to the salesman, so keep it to yourself until the right moment!

Calculate the yearly mileage you will be driving. This will help you decide if you should lease a vehicle or purchase a vehicle outright. If you normally drive less than 1,000 miles a month, you should consider a lease. A leased car generally has lower payments than a car purchased outright.

Conduct research before heading to the dealership. Check out vehicle comparison sites on the Internet, and view consumer magazines in order to determine the best vehicle for you. You will also find information about the features and pricing. That way, you can save both your money and your time upon arrival at the dealership.

Consider skipping the dealership completely and go with an auto broker. An auto broker usually works with several dealerships and acts as an intermediary to get you the best deal on the car you are looking for. They work on commission, however it can still save you time and money in the long run. Be aware though that a few states have banned auto brokers.

Now that you are prepared and informed, you are ready to go out and find the right car at the perfect price point. Don’t forget these tips, and if you feel you are being pressured, step back and go through the article again. It is here for you whenever you need it!

Buying A New Car? This Article Has The Tips You Need

Is it time to replace that old clunker? Are you in the mood for a change in your vehicle? It is important to know that buying a car can be a challenge, or it can be quite simple if you know what you are doing. The advice and tips you will find in this article can give you that education. Read on to find out how.

Do not allow the salesperson to convince you to buy a car that you cannot realistically afford. Tons of people get talked into buying a sports car by a slick-tongued salesperson telling them they look fabulous behind the steering wheel. Keep your budget in mind and stay in control of the situation.

Do not be turned off from a car because it is used. Most people would like nothing more than to buy a brand new, shiny car. But, is this really feasible for your financial situation? Many used cars are perfectly fine and will not break your back nearly as much as a new car will.

Do not pay for lots of extras when you are buying a car. Sure, it would be nice to have a lot of fun features in your new car, but do you really need them? Every toy or gadget you add jacks up the price of the car considerably. Figure out what you really need, and just stick to that.

If you are the type of person who can’t resist the pressure of buying a car, then don’t go shopping by yourself. They will help you get a better price and ask hard questions. Let your adviser know about your needs and budget before you set foot on a car lot.

If you aren’t concerned about getting the absolutely latest model, consider car shopping in November or December. During this time frame, dealerships will offer deals on the current models. They want to clear out their inventory to make way for shipments of the next year’s models. This means that you will be offered more incentives, lower sticker prices, and more room to negotiate!

Set a budget and stick to it when shopping for a car. It can be very hard to stick to a budget when you find a car that you really want, but there is nothing good about an impulse buy. Figure out what you can afford before you start looking so that you do not break the bank.

Is there a specific feature you really want? Is it, heated seats or a sunroof? Before you even approach the lot, find out which cars in your price range actually offer this feature. This will reduce the time spent on the lot looking at cars you don’t want as the feature isn’t available.

Ask the dealer to allow a mechanic to inspect the car. The mechanic you’re cool with should be fairly trustworthy. Stay away from the dealer’s mechanic. The mechanic should be able to tell you whether the car is road worthy and if it is a good deal for the money you will pay.

Don’t fold to pressure. The salesman doesn’t want you to walk out of his dealership, so he will tell you whatever it takes to get you to sign a contract at that moment. Ignore him. Do what is best for you, and if you need to have some time to think about it, take the time you need.

Read all the documents that are presented to you when you purchase a new car. They will usually have a large stack for you to sign. Don’t feel pressured into signing anything that you do not understand. If you do not understand something, ask about it before signing. Until you sign your name to all the paperwork, you can walk out of the dealership and not owe a dime.

Check a vehicle’s overall consumer rating before you make a purchase. The great thing about consumer reports is that you can save yourself from making a bad purchase very easily. These reports can tell you how much you should expect to spend on repairs and how long the vehicle will last on average.

Don’t expect to make a purchase in your first dealership. In fact, if you do so, then you are probably making a bad purchase. Shopping around is always important, and this is especially true when it comes to making an intelligent purchase with a car or truck. Take your time and look around.

Most of us are looking for the best possible deal when shopping for our next vehicle. One way you can get a great deal is by utilizing the time of the month to your advantage. At the first of each month, auto dealerships must pay for each of the cars they have on their showroom floor. So, at the end of each month, these dealers are more apt to negotiate so they can get rid of some of these vehicles. If you shop during the last week of the month, you can get the best deals!

When you are looking for a used vehicle, you should avoid any cars with high mileage. People will tell you that they drove on the highway or that they drove responsibly, but you really don’t know. Even if you like the car, avoid buying it if the mileage is too high.

Be responsible when buying a used car. Even if all the statistics on the brand and model you are buying are excellent, you do not know how the car was maintained. Get a qualified mechanic to check it for you. They can spot major issues that you need to avoid before purchase.

There are some tricks to know when buying a car; however, it does not have to be a nightmare. Find all the information you can on how to handle the purchase and tie it in with what you have learned here. You will find the car you really want, and drive much happier knowing you bought it well.

Make That Car Dream Come True! These Tips Can Help

Most people love new cars, but many hate the prospect of having to go shop for one. Given the substantial expense involved, preparing to buy a car requires a good bit of research in advance of your shopping trip. The article that follows below contains terrific guidance for anyone looking to buy a vehicle.

Watch out for the up sells in the financing office. When you reach the financing office, you will always be offered an extended warranty, interior protection, gap insurance and other such add ons. Make sure that you understand these well before making a decision to purchase them. Most are not worth the money you will spend, and you’re better off saving each month in the event that you need a repair or your interior gets a stain.

When negotiating, focus on the price of the car overall, not just the monthly payment. Dealers are able to get any car into a particular monthly payment level, but the terms of the financing end up making the overall cost quite a bit higher than you may have thought. Get the best deal you can on the total cost of the car. Once you have done that, determine what the monthly payments will be.

Do not wait until you go car shopping to think about how you are going to finance your car. You need to arrive at the dealership with your car loan pre-qualified at a decent interest rate. You are almost always going to be able to get a better deal than the dealership would provide for you.

If you don’t think that you can stay away from the pressure during any sales pitches, you shouldn’t go shopping alone for a vehicle. Take someone you trust to help facilitate negotiations and ask key questions. Before you even go out to look at cars, make sure you and your friend are on the same page regarding your budget and needs.

Test drive more than one car before you buy it. Any new car is going to feel fantastic if you’re used to driving an old one. Think seriously about how the ride feels, where the buttons are located, and how much of the road you are able to see. Test-driving more than one car will help you realize where you want to be.

Auto shows are a great way to narrow down your options. This is a great way to view many cars in a short amount of time. You can talk to the experts on hand as well. You will have a better idea of what you want in a car.

Be careful about putting your social security code out there. Some dealers will ask for this info upfront so they can run your credit. You should not let multiple dealers run your credit. Only give your number to the company you want to finance your purchase.

Keep the trade in you’re doing to yourself. Don’t disclose that you have a vehicle to trade in until you’ve negotiated a firm price for the new car you will be purchasing. The dealership might adjust the cost of the new car based on the fact that you have a car to trade in if they know about it beforehand.

Talk to your friends and neighbors before buying your car. Ask what their experience was like with various dealerships, and visit only the dealerships that you are hearing positive things about. This can save you a lot of hassle while you are shopping and make your car buying experience that much more pleasant.

Don’t hand over the keys to your trade in until the deal is signed. If they have your car “hostage,” they can use it to pressure you to buy the new car. Wait until the deal is done to ensure you keep control of the situation at all times during the transaction.

Not all dealerships and salespeople are identical. Although some salesmen can be pushy at times, not everyone tries to sell a car this way. Nowadays, dealerships are aware that pleasing their customers will ensure that they come back. You can always leave if the salesperson is not doing a good job. There are a lot of salespeople that will be eager to work with you.

If you don’t have friends or family in your area to ask for advice from, check the Better Business Bureau’s website to find out how the dealers in your area are dealing with customers. This will allow you to at least remove those with many complaints from your list of options.

If you see two price stickers on a car in a lot, you might want to head to a different location. This is a sign of a high pressure sales force who wants you to buy all the bells and whistles. If you think you can withstand their tactics, you can stay, but you may not get the best deal there.

Look into all of the fine print on your financing papers. Just because your monthly payment is lower does not mean that you are getting the car for less. It could just be a way to get you to buy the car for the original price so the salesman can keep the entire amount of commission that he set out to earn.

Do not try negotiating unless you see the car that you want is available. He might tell you that he can get it in for you, but you do not know if it will be the exact one you want. You do not want to waste your time negotiating for a car that you do not really want.

Take extra care when car shopping if you are a female. The sad fact is that some salespeople believe that women are uninformed buyers and will try to take advantage. Arm yourself with research on prices ahead of time, and don’t be afraid to walk away if your salesperson seems condescending.

The task of shopping for cars can be daunting, scary and of course, quite expensive. In order to make the most of the experience, it pays to conduct sufficient due diligence before heading to the dealership. Hopefully the information and guidance found above has provided you with the confidence you need to get the ball rolling.

Great Advice For Shopping For A Car

Owning a car is a must for many people, but shopping for a new car can be a real pain. If you have been putting off buying a new car because of this, the advice in this article can help. Before long, you will be driving the car of your dreams.

Make sure that you have your loan in place beforehand. The process of buying a car can take a long time due to the fact that they must look over your credit score in order to obtain a lender. If you already have an approved loan, it will move much quicker.

Ask the car dealer to show you a vehicle history report. This can tell you if the vehicle has been in an accident or if it has been recalled. It can also show you what repairs have been done and when they were done so that you know exactly what you are buying.

When buying a used car, a great way to tell if the car has been in an accident is to look into the door frames. Usually when a car is repainted, you will notice over spray in this area. This is not proof that a car was in an accident, but it will let you know it was repainted.

Check out the maker’s site if you want to customize your car. While the cars on the dealership lot may be the kind of car, you want, a number of car manufacturers give you the opportunity to customize the car a bit with color and features. You may have to wait a few weeks more to get your car, but it might be worth it.

If you are shopping for a car, spend some time at the dealer. Don’t rush yourself by planning something later in the day. Therefore, you should set aside a full afternoon to do your car shopping. If you don’t have time, don’t fear leaving and returning another time.

When you look for a car, check out the ones that offer you a lot of good features in the safety category. The brakes and suspension are two things to take into account when car shopping. You should also get as many airbags as possible. You’re going to be spending lots of time inside this vehicle, so be sure that it is safe.

If you are insecure about your ability to avoid sales pitches by high-pressure salesmen, do not go car shopping alone. You can bring a family member or friend to help you with negotiations. Discuss your needs and the limits of your budget with your adviser before you visit a car lot.

Call the bank to see if you can get the financing you need for the vehicle you are interested in. This is something that is good for your security. Your dealer may be able to locate a better interest rate than your financial institution can, but you should know that ahead of time.

If the price of a car is non-negotiable, see if you can negotiate on other terms. Some dealerships will agree to provide several months’ worth of free gasoline or a year of free oil changes, for instance. It never hurts to ask if a salesman can sweeten the deal.

Make sure that when you are car shopping that you know what you’re looking for first. Call around to some of the dealerships and see if they have something you’d be interested in. You may also be able to find their website and check out the vehicles before spending time going up there.

Never settle for the price that’s set for the car when you’re shopping for one. You must be a great negotiator and try to knock a little off the price. Every car dealership knows that they’re going to have to negotiate anyway, so they make the car seem like it costs more than they’d settle for.

Set a spending limit before shopping for your new car. It is easy to get swayed by pushy salesmen or a nice leather interior, but it is important that you stay within your budget. You may like the cause of spending extra, but you will not like it when it comes time to pay for it.

Ask the dealer if the car can be inspected by a third-party mechanic. The mechanic you use should be trustworthy. Never use the mechanic the dealer suggests. Having a mechanic there isn’t to drive the price down or to intimidate the dealer. It’s only to ensure that the car is worth buying.

Find out how much it will cost to insure a specific vehicle before you purchase it. Insurers charge a lot more to insure sports cars than other vehicles. Even the color of the car can influence the insurance cost. To guarantee that you are not surprised once you have already paid for the car you must do your research.

Check out how much repairs on a car would cost before buying it. You should be able to get a fair idea of what kinds of costs you will have to pay for repairs. And that’s not just for when it is under warranty. What happens when you have to pay full price for an ignition coil? Different cars cost different amounts, so find out.

Speak with the car dealer about his return policy. You may even want to get the policy in writing. Even if you have test driven the car and everything seems fine, you never know what could happen later that day or week. It’s important that you know what the dealer’s policy is on returning it in case something should happen.

A dealer with a great reputation may offer you a better deal than one which advertises great prices. You may find that a dealer who people like to buy from offers perks which aren’t available elsewhere, including reduced pressure sales tactics and lower overall price due to freebies thrown in to the sale.

Going car shopping does not have to be a frustrating experience. By keeping the advice you have just read in mind, you can make your next shopping trip go more smoothly. With these tips, you can get a great deal on a new or used car that is perfect for you.

Car Shopping Is Easier With These Tips

Some people love shopping for new cars, while others find the experience to be stressful, daunting and unpleasant. If you are in the latter group, it’s smart to do some homework and preparation before launching your car hunt. Check out this invaluable advice, then keep it in mind as you approach the dealership in search of your next vehicle.

You should not buy a used car without having a good third-party mechanic look at it first. If the seller or dealer declines, take your business elsewhere. An adequate mechanic can make an impartial opinion on any problems in the vehicle like signs of flood water submersion or car wreckage.

Check out the maker’s site if you want to customize your car. While the cars on the dealership lot may be the kind of car, you want, a number of car manufacturers give you the opportunity to customize the car a bit with color and features. You may have to wait a few weeks more to get your car, but it might be worth it.

If you are purchasing a new vehicle, you should be aware of what you can spend. Never exceed the maximum amount of this budget, regardless of what the car dealer says. In the end, this is your money paying for the vehicle.

Do not be turned off from a car because it is used. Most people would like nothing more than to buy a brand new, shiny car. But, is this really feasible for your financial situation? Many used cars are perfectly fine and will not break your back nearly as much as a new car will.

Read all of the fine print that is on the contract for the car you want to purchase. Even if you think the car salesman is being perfectly honest with you about everything involved, you need to make sure you are not signing anything that you will have regrets about later.

Due diligence should be exercised when planning your car budget. It is imperative that you take a full and realistic look at your budget. Not only must you consider a car payment, you must also consider insurance, gas and maintenance for the vehicle. There is nothing worse than having a vehicle that you cannot afford to drive.

If you are absolutely in love with a certain color or interior finish, don’t settle for less. Though the specific vehicle that you want might not be in stock at your local dealership, ask them if they can get it for you. Most dealerships have relationships with other dealerships and will trade vehicles back and forth. Keep in mind though, you might end up paying a little bit extra to cover some of the costs of the trade.

Although monthly payments are important when considering a new car purchase, many times a dealership will extend the length of the loan and raise the interest rate to get smaller payments. To avoid this do not negotiate payment amounts until you have negotiated the sales price of the vehicle.

Check out how much repairs on a car would cost before buying it. You should be able to get a fair idea of what kinds of costs you will have to pay for repairs. And that’s not just for when it is under warranty. What happens when you have to pay full price for an ignition coil? Different cars cost different amounts, so find out.

You are a female shopping for a car, never agree to work with a salesman who treats you in a condescending way. Some salesmen will try to take advantage of female shoppers and offer them unfair prices or financing terms. This is not what your car-buying experience should be like. If it is, visit a different dealership.

Spend time doing your homework on used cars before you commit. There are many websites online that will give you an estimate of what your car can be sold for. You can find out what a vehicle is worth by using the NADA or the Kelly Blue Book. If a car is selling at the dealership for much more than the price that these resources suggest, you should go somewhere else.

Consider skipping the dealership entirely. An auto broker will work with multiple dealerships to find you the best deal on the car you want. You can usually find these online, and the dealerships will pay the fees for their use. This is a good way to comparison shop without having to visit multiple dealerships.

Never give your trade-in’s keys to the dealer before you’ve come to an agreement. The dealer could take your keys (and thus, your car) hostage and manipulate you into an unfair deal. Always hold on to your keys and if the dealer wants to take a look inside the car, open it up for them while you hold the keys.

Have car insurance in place before you go car shopping. You need to have insurance before they will let you drive the car off the lot, so make sure to shop around for the best. While there are some companies that let you sign up from the lot itself, that may not be the best insurance deal you can get.

When you are using things like rebates, low interest or cash back, you have to keep in mind the source of these incentives. They are exclusively offered by the manufacturer, so don’t let the dealer tell you he is unable to fulfill it. If he says the, simply take your business, and rebate, elsewhere.

Do you want to buy new or used? There are certain situations that might make it better for you to buy new, but if your budget does not allow for it, there are great used deals as well. Learn about warranties and rebates on both new and used before you begin shopping.

Now you should love the thought of buying your new car. However, knowledge on the matter is vital if one wants to maximize the car shopping experience. Use what you’ve learned, and show the salesperson a thing or two.

What To Consider Before Making A Car Purchase

Car driving isn’t a simple task. Neither is buying a car! You have to be smart for both situations, and this article is here to provide you with some knowledge to allow you to buy with your brain. Keep reading to find easy tips for car buying success in the future.

Go to different dealerships before settling on one. A different dealership might be able to get you a better price on the car you want, and may be running different promotions. Try three or four in your area, and even if you have to travel a bit farther, it may be worth it.

What can you afford? You have to understand exactly how much money you have every month to not only pay for the car lease, but also insurance, licensing costs, gas, and repairs. Everything must be covered every single month or else you’ll have to reduce the amount you have to spend on the car itself.

If you are trading in an automobile, visit your local library and find out the value of your car. You can also look this information up online in several different locations. By having the trade-in value of your car and the retail value of your car you can negotiate better.

Find out about the different warranties that are available. You do not want to spend a couple thousand dollars on a warranty that is not going to cover the repairs that commonly occur. Instead, shop outside of the dealership to find one that will cover the repairs at a better price.

Be wary of any dealer who is not willing to give you an extended test drive. Asking for a full afternoon to test out the car is a perfectly reasonable request. If the dealer refuses and will not accommodate the request, you should take your business elsewhere. A car is a big purchase and a big commitment, a dealer should understand that and let you get completely comfortable with the car before purchasing.

Never purchase a car the same day that you find it. A rule of thumb is to sleep on the decision. That way you have time to think about the pros and cons of the car and how much you think the car is for you. Do not worry that the car will be sold in the meantime as there are many more out there.

Before going car shopping, clean all personal items out of your car. Doing this one thing will save you considerable time at the dealership. This will also ensure that you do not leave behind important documents such as insurance papers. Nothing is worse than getting home and realizing the you left something in the car you just traded in.

The car industry makes money on any margin of profit. If you can find out how much the dealership is generally buying their cars for, it will make it much easier to find their bottom line. This means you need to do some research on your local car market.

When purchasing a car, be wary of the age and mileage warranty of the vehicle. In most cases, you are likely to hit the mileage first so make sure you understand exactly how long you are likely to be covered before making a decision on what vehicle you will purchase.

Avoid purchasing any used vehicle that is as-is. Signing this warranty is always a bad idea. Any competent dealer will offer warranties that cover a 30 to 90 day time frame. Be aware that if the engine or transmission breaks once you drive away, you will end up having to pay for the repairs.

When purchasing a car, you don’t want to tie yourself down to one specific model. Give yourself some flexibility in color and even in the car itself. If you do this, you will be able to pick up a great deal, even if it was not the first car you considered.

Don’t ever buy a car the first day you find it and check it out. Give yourself at least a day to sleep on it and think of anything else you can to help you secure a better deal. Waiting with patience will fare you much better in the long run.

Do not fall for the sales pitch that the deal will not be available if you wait until the next day. More times than not, you will be able to walk back into the dealership and get the same price, if not a better one the next day. If you feel that the salesman is pressuring you, walk out the door and come back the next day.

Take the time to find the car that you want before heading to the dealership. Learn about the available options for that car. Furthermore, research to find out what other consumers are paying for that car with the options that you want. This way, you can better be prepared to get the dealer to sell you the car for what it’s worth.

If you are planning on using your current car as a trade in, don’t let the dealer know right away. Your first goal is to negotiate down the price of the car you wish to purchase. Information like trade-in value is valuable to the salesman, so keep it to yourself until the right moment!

When you are using things like rebates, low interest or cash back, you have to keep in mind the source of these incentives. They are exclusively offered by the manufacturer, so don’t let the dealer tell you he is unable to fulfill it. If he says the, simply take your business, and rebate, elsewhere.

These tips are perfect for any novice or expert who needs a new car. There are so many things to learn in life, and when it leads to an easier car buying experience, it’s worth it! Keep these ideas in mind as you head to the car lot and find the car of your dreams.