A car is one of the first large purchases anyone will make. It’s a monumental moment in our lives that is truly something to be proud of.
Yet, buying your first car isn’t as simple as it seems. There are many different factors to consider to ensure you’re getting the best deal and a quality vehicle.
From insurance to safety, new drivers can get overwhelmed with all the different necessities. It may seem easiest to go with the car that looks the coolest in your price range, but before you get carried away, here are a few things you should keep in mind when shopping for your new ride.
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Budget
The first thing you should think about when deciding to purchase a new car is how much you can afford. Whether you’re buying the car in full or making loan payments, you should set a budget.
If you’re paying for the car in full, take into account title and registration fees, taxes, and ask about any additional fees as well. If you have $15,000 saved, that doesn’t mean you can afford a $15,000 car. The same goes for monthly payments; consider additional fees before you sign on the dotted line.
Another thing people forget to budget for is gas. Depending on how often you’re driving, you’ll need to note the gas mileage your new car will get and budget that into your expenses. If your car was inexpensive but gets terrible gas mileage, you may end up paying more in the long run anyway.
New or Used
While most first-time car owners opt for a used car because they are less expensive, it’s ultimately your decision. However, many car experts note that the value of new cars decreases after you buy them, unlike used cars.
With used cars, you still have the option to purchase a newer model, though they may not have the newest features. You should also consider if you want to put the wear and tear of an inexperienced driver on a brand new car vs a used car.
Insurance
Insurance is required for all drivers. It’s not only required but also important should you ever get into an accident. Your insurance will depend on how old your car is, the color, safety rating, and so many other aspects of your new car. If you’re trying to keep insurance costs down, check out some of the best cars for low insurance rates. Visit learnandserve.org for a free auto insurance quote today!
Test Drive
Even if a car looks good online doesn’t mean it runs well. Always make sure to test drive your vehicle before you purchase it. This is especially true for used cars. You may be surprised to find that the car you’ve been eyeing doesn’t run as well as you expected it to.
Turn radius, brake sensitivity, and interior comfort are all experiences you won’t have unless you test drive your vehicle before you purchase it.
Buying Your First Car
When the time comes where you’re finally buying your first car, you’ll be glad you did some extra research. Now, you’ll have the peace of mind knowing you chose your new car after weighing all your options.
For more helpful car tips, check out some of our other articles like this one!