Buying a car can be an exciting experience, but things can also go wrong if a few things are not considered before choosing the vehicle. It is important to be clear about which properties and features are important in order to ultimately get the right car and not to regret anything later. If a family car is needed, a smaller vehicle or maybe even a convertible suitable for everyday use with an additional fun factor for the weekend. Does fuel efficiency matter? How about security?
If the new car will be driving a lot on the highway, performance and fuel economy are factors that should be considered. If you drive a lot in the city, a car with good maneuverability and a small turning circle is recommended. With so many different makes and models on the market, it can be difficult to decide which car suits you best. And, of course, the budget also plays a role.
The price range extends from a few thousand euros and is virtually open at the top. It is advisable to decide beforehand what it may cost and then stick to it. After all, the rates should remain within personal limits.
When buying, you should also think about the loss in value. For example, if you don’t want to keep it for very long anyway, you might be better off with a used one. On the other hand, if you plan to own your car for a long time, buying a new car is probably the better choice.
Whatever type of car you end up choosing, it is advisable to find out about all the equipment options in advance and to test drive several models before making the final decision. After all, there can be a lot of money at stake.
It is therefore also important to find a reputable and trustworthy dealer. Friends or acquaintances may be able to give a tip with whom they have had good experiences. Another option is to check online reviews. Finally, it’s always a good idea to visit the dealership in person and take a look around. So you can get an idea of the surroundings, the atmosphere and the employees and get at least a small impression. Anyone who does not feel comfortable in a particular car dealership or is unsure should better avoid it.
For anyone considering buying a used vehicle, it is important to have a vehicle history report to ensure you are not buying junk. A vehicle history report provides vital information, including any accidents it has been in, how many owners it has had, and other details. It should therefore be requested. A look at the service book can also influence the purchase decision, as this can provide information about previous defects and answer the question of regular maintenance.
The best way to find out if a car is right for you is, of course, to take it for a test drive. Is the car comfortable, easy to use and easy to drive? What might be disturbing? Attention should be paid to smooth and even acceleration as well as responsive and progressive braking. How do the engine and transmission behave? The drive should not emit any unusual vibrations or noises and the gear changes should also be smooth. In curves, the body should not wobble too much or even rock. In addition, all interior components such as air conditioning, power windows, audio system, etc. should be thoroughly checked to ensure that they are working properly.
Anyone who negotiates must not forget that the seller is also trying to get the best out of the deal. So before you start negotiating, take some time to think about what you want and what you are willing to give up. In the end, a willingness to compromise can pay off here, or an alternative solution can be found. In the case of used cars, of course, the defects can be brought into play, and when buying a new car, one or the other point may come up in the negotiation that does not fully convince you about the car you have chosen. There is usually some wiggle room in both price and terms. (awm)