Drivers: Before You Buy, Read This Article!

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.

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.

Focus on the overall price, not the monthly price, in negotiations. Dealers can make the monthly price just about anything, but it will just increase the total price you pay. Rather, concentrate on getting the lowest overall cost for the car. Use that number, then calculate the optimal monthly payment amount.

Ask to have the car looked at by your personal mechanic before you purchase it from a dealer. If they refuse, go elsewhere. A mechanic can offer an impartial opinion about the vehicle. He can determine whether the car has hidden damage from previous accidents or being submersed.

Dont drive your really expensive car to the dealer when youre looking to buy another car. This is especially important if you plan to trade in the vehicle. A salesperson may use this as grounds for rejecting any less-than-generous offer.

When you are considering buying a used car, always have your mechanic check it out first. You are not a qualified mechanic trained to spot problems or repairs, so you need to take it to a professional. Be prepared to pay $100 or so for this service, but it may end up saving you thousands.

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.

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.

Have a friend or family member that sells cars come along with you as you search for a new car. Car salesmen can be very aggressive, but if they know that you are with a fellow salesman you will have an easier time getting the deal that you want and deserve.

Make sure to take your time. Even if you are really excited about buying a car, dont run out and buy it on the same day. Make sure that you have taken the time to do research on safety, repairs and other factors before doing something you might end up regretting.

Exercise

If you are a female shopper and feel as though the dealership is looking down on you, exercise your right to shop elsewhere. Many dealers still have the idea that women are uninformed emotional shoppers. Prove them wrong by informing yourself and dealing only with salesmen who respect you regardless of gender.

Now that you are prepared and informed, you are ready to go out and find the right car at the perfect price point. Dont 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!