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The car buying process may strike a bit of fear into your heart. Perhaps you just want to be more educated about the car buying process so you can negotiate better? As long as you have knowledge, you’ll do fine. Take the following advice you’re about to read, and start getting what you deserve.
Do not make the mistake of focusing on only the monthly payment amount when you are car shopping. This can cause you to buy a more expensive car than you can really afford. You need to focus on the total cost of the vehicle itself and whether that is a good deal.
When buying a used car, a great way to tell if the car has been in an accident is to look into the door frames. Usually when a car is repainted, you will notice over spray in this area. This is not proof that a car was in an accident, but it will let you know it was repainted.
Always test drive a car before you buy it. You have to do it even if you drove that kind of car before, you might not like this particular one. No two cars are exactly the same. Give every car that you consider a test drive to prevent buying a lemon.
Be aggressive and assertive. You will inevitably end up negotiating the price of your vehicle, so don’t be afraid to push a little. Be prepared to walk away from the dealership if you aren’t making progress. Leave the offer alone for a day or two, and then contact the salesman again. If they know that you are willing to walk away, they will be more likely to accept your offer or to counter-offer with a more reasonable price.
If you know you are easily convinced by salespeople, you should not go shopping for a new car by yourself. Bring someone else with you for negotiations and to ask questions you may forget to ask. Tell them exactly what you’re looking to buy and how much you have to spend before you go.
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.
Research trade-in prices before turning over your older vehicle. If you are planning on trading in your current vehicle to go towards the purchase price of your new one, be armed with the proper value ahead of time. Checking prices online or using the Kelley Blue Book. Just make sure you are checking the wholesale price, not retail.
You might not get the best deal right away. You need to be aware of how to obtain them, as well as how to properly negotiate. You need to analyze the math they’re doing, and you need to do your own too. Keep in mind the tips discussed here as you start your search.