Buying a car can be exciting, but it can also be super stressful. It’s a complex process that requires a lot of research, financial planning and finding the right vehicle that will suit your budget and taste. Armed with this advice, you can avoid being taken by the car dealer.
Listed below are some of the most common mistakes that can quickly turn a buyer’s excitement into remorse. Read on and we’ll tell you more about it.
Skipping the test drive
This is one of the most important aspects of the car buying process. We understand that you are excited, but you should never skip the test drive. The car may look good, but this is your chance to see if it really measures up to your expectations.
Spend at least 30 minutes driving the car you’re considering. Also, consider taking a few similar models for a spin. This way, you can be confident that you have made the right decision.
Buying unnecessary extras
Most dealers would try to sell you extras like paint protectant, fabric protection or rustproofing to boost their profit margins.
Vehicles are already coated to protect against rust. Plus, you can apply paint protectant yourself if you want to, and it will only cost you a few dollars. Don’t accept these unnecessary services; they’re just a waste of money.
Settling for what is on the lot
A lot of buyers are either too excited or impatient that 95% of them would settle for what they found on the lot. Meanwhile, only 5% would order the vehicle they want and wait for it to be delivered.
Remember, this is large purchase. If you are looking for a specific model, don’t hesitate to ask the dealer. They can search the car you want and even have it shipped from several states away.
Not enough cross-shopping
A lot of car shoppers tend to focus only on popular models or brands. Some would only look at 3 different models. Keep in mind that there are a lot of vehicles out there that can meet your needs and specifications. So, don’t get stuck on 1 or 2 brands.