Tip Number 1: Identify your needs. In our experience people buy new cars when there has been a significant change in life. A few of the most common reasons are, a new job, a new family member or maybe you moved to a new city. There are a few common reasons for why people buy new cars. Allow us to help you find what suits your needs, like more seating, or maybe something better on gas. Doing a little research before can go a long way in helping you make choices before visiting a dealership.
Tip Number 2: Research. It is very important to do a little homework before heading out. Perhaps a particular vehicle caught your eye out on the road or you saw an advertisement you liked. New cars may look better on the road than in photos. Do some research to make sure that the new model fits your needs and budget. It can be discouraging to have made a visit out to the dealership, only to learn that the vehicle you had in mind is not the size you needed or is over budget.
Tip Number 3: Book an appointment. While dealers do not turn away walk-ins, today's vehicle shortage has caused many delays with specific models. Calling ahead can save time, while providing information on the availability and test drives.
Tip Number 4: Eat before!! This is our best advice. Car dealerships are a bit like casinos. Their goal is to keep you as long as possible, in order to have you sign. You won’t find a clock in sight. It is very easy to lose track of time while shopping for a car and it takes longer than you might expect. The last thing you want is to be overcome with hunger or to become hangry. That can lead you to be unable to think clearly or make a poor decision.
Tip Number 5: Test Drive. You should never buy or lease a car without first taking the opportunity to test drive it. They all look good in the showroom but you never know how you’ll feel behind the wheel. The seats or sightlines might not work for your personal dimensions. 2022 has been a harder year than most for the availability of cars to test drive, given the record low inventories. With that said, we still highly recommend trying a car out before ordering.
Tip Number 6: Go during the day: This tip is very important if you are shopping for a used car. You need to look at the car in the daylight. This is the best way to see the condition of the body and interior. Do not buy a used car that you have only seen at night.
Bonus: Don’t let the pressure get to you. Yes there is a car shortage and yes you need to make decisions further in advance than ever before. Keeping this in mind, feel free to take an extra day to make your decision rather than succumbing to a salesperson's pressure tactics. Dealerships do not have lineups out the door, the offers will remain the same for the next 12-24 hours.
Autos Consultants is here to help guide you through your next car purchase or lease to make sure you make a sound decision and find the best deals in today's tumultuous market.
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