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Buying a classic car has a certain appeal for some — whether it’s for nostalgic value or the joy of participating in a tight-knit collector community. Even if you’re new to the classic-car world, you’re likely aware that older cars can come with wear and tear or mechanical issues. With some due diligence and preparation, finding the right classic car can be a little easier. If you’re in the market for a classic car, consider these tips before making the purchase:
Owning a classic car is different from owning a newer vehicle in some key ways. Here are three important factors you may want to consider before buying a classic car:
First and foremost, you should formulate a budget so you know what you can afford. You should not only budget for the purchase price of the vehicle, but also the cost of maintenance, insurance and potential upgrades.
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AutoTrader notes that classic cars are older, so maintenance can be more costly. This is because quality parts for a classic car can be scarce, and it may be difficult to find a repair shop that works on classic vehicles. You may want to do some research to see if you can find repair shops that specialize in classic vehicle maintenance in your area. As you shop for a classic car, you may also want to consider any maintenance and repairs that may need to be completed on the vehicle, says CARFAX. You may be able to get some maintenance and parts estimates from specialty body shops so you know what to expect.
Finally, be sure to research market trends, as the cost of a classic car can fluctuate over time. The value of a classic car is usually dependent on the make and model of the vehicle, and how many of them were produced, says U.S. News and World Report. Whether the car is in its original condition or has been restored can also be a determining factor when it comes to price. If you’re looking to purchase a classic car as an investment, remember to do your research and keep these considerations in mind. Online discussion forums for your desired vehicle make, resources such as Hemmings or the National Automobile Dealers Association, and specialty car shops can all be helpful sources of insight and data, says AutoTrader.
A classic car purchase often warrants a closer inspection and a longer test drive than newer models, so you can accurately see how it’s running, says CARFAX. As you shop for your classic car, be prepared to spend some time inspecting each vehicle you look at. In fact, you might even want to consider having a professional inspect the vehicle for body or engine issues and damage. If a seller is ever apprehensive about letting you have someone inspect the vehicle, you may want to think twice about the purchase.
CARFAX says these are some other items you may want to consider before signing on the dotted line:
Carefully consider the car’s condition, history, mileage, maintenance costs and related factors when negotiating a final purchase price. For example, Men’s Journal says the lower the mileage, the higher the value will be, but issues like rust should be taken into consideration.
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Traditional car insurance may not always be an available option, or the right option, for a classic car. Consider whether classic car insurance is an option for your collector vehicle. This type of specialty insurance can usually provide a greater reimbursement value for a classic car if your’e in an accident. However, it’s important to keep in mind that some classic car insurance policies may require you to limit the amount of miles you drive each year. When you find a classic car that you’re interested in purchasing, it’d be a good idea to consult with your insurance agent to talk about your options.
Buying and owning a classic car can be a fun experience, but requires some extra research and responsibility. Taking an informed approach to the purchase and maintenance of a classic vehicle may help you make a rewarding investment that you can enjoy for years to come.
The post Buying a Classic Car: A Beginner’s Guide appeared first on The Allstate Blog.
If you’re in the market for a new car, you may be thinking about comfort, features and price. One thing you may also want to consider is the vehicle’s potential resale value. Here are a few things to keep in mind about your next car and its resale value.
If you eventually plan to sell your car or trade it in when you buy a new vehicle, its resale value will be a big factor in how much money you can get for it, says AutoGuide.com.
Also, if your car is totaled, your auto insurance provider would pay you the actual cash value of the car at the time of the accident (depending on your coverage). Actual cash value is determined using factors such as the typical resale value of the car at the time of the accident, previous damage and depreciation. So even if you don’t think you’ll be selling your car, you may want to consider how well it retains its value over time.
AutoGuide.com states simple supply and demand come into play with resale value. Sometimes certain vehicles are more popular than others. For instance, you may like a smaller coupe or a family sedan, but maybe SUVs and trucks have been in higher demand for a few years. If you get a car that’s too niche or simply not in high demand, it may be harder to sell it in the future.
It may be helpful to do some research on websites like Kelley Blue Book (KBB) or Edmunds to get an idea of which makes and models consistently have high resale value, too.
Simply put, neutral colors are more likely to help boost your car’s resale value. Sticking to colors such as silver, white, gray and black tend to be a safe bet, according to KBB. If you buy a car that’s an unusual, such as green or purple, fewer people might be interested when you go to sell it in a few years.
Roughly 2 percent of new cars sold have a manual transmission, says CARFAX. Most drivers are looking for a car with an automatic transmission, so you may want to avoid purchasing a new car with a stick shift.
A car’s value drops about 20 percent in the first year of ownership, according to CARFAX. Here are a few things you can do to help maintain its resale value.
If a car has either higher or lower mileage, it can affect its value, according to Cars.com. (CARFAX says around 10,000 miles per year is typical.) If a car has high mileage, it may not have as much life left as a similar car with lower mileage. However, Cars.com notes that a car with very low mileage may have problems from not being driven regularly or indicate it wasn’t driven much due to problems. You may want to limit the miles you add to your vehicle so the resale value doesn’t drop, but also make sure you use it regularly to help avoid mechanical issues.
Routine maintenance and making repairs when necessary go a long way toward keeping a car in good shape. CARFAX states that routine oil changes and replacing worn out parts can help keep a car from depreciating in value. Similarly, Cars.com says it’s also important to keep the car looking good — so make sure it’s fixed properly after an accident and that you keep the interior clean and fresh.
Warranties often transfer over to the new buyer, says Auto Trader. If your vehicle still has a warranty, you may want to sell the car before the contract runs out. That’s something buyers may find appealing, and you may be able to get a little more money for a car with a warranty. Check with the warranty provider to be sure it will transfer, but it could be a good selling point if it does.
If you’re looking for a new car, you may want to consider its future resale value as you shop. Choosing a car that will appeal to buyers down the road and keeping it in good shape may help you get the most for it when you’re ready to sell or trade it in.
Originally published on August 25, 2015.
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A vehicle title may seem like a simple piece of paper, but it’s an important one. If you lose or misplace your vehicle title, you’ll likely want to get a replacement title as soon as possible. Here are some tips to help you get started with the process.
Simply put, a vehicle title provides proof of ownership for a vehicle, says The Balance. If you own your car outright, the title will list your name as the legal owner of the vehicle. If you took out a loan to purchase the car, the title will likely list the name of the lienholder (the entity that financed the loan) and remain in their possession until the loan is paid off. It’s important to replace a lost vehicle title, as you cannot typically sell the vehicle without it.
Below are some tips to help you start a replacement request if you’ve lost or misplaced your title. Remember, the process can vary by state, so be sure to check your local requirements so you have the right information ready.
According to Road and Track Magazine, if the car is titled in your name, most states offer replacements through a local department of motor vehicles office. You may need to provide proof of ownership (such as documents for a previous loan on the vehicle) and pay a small fee to obtain the replacement. While requirements differ by state, you may also want to be prepared to provide your car’s vehicle identification number (VIN) and some personal information. For example, Wisconsin’s Department of Transportation states that you need your driver’s license or another form of identification, the last four digits of your Social Security number and an email address, among other information, to apply for a replacement title. Keep in mind that a new title will likely indicate that it is a replacement title.
If you’ve purchased a vehicle from a private seller, and the title was lost before you transferred it to your name, it may still be possible to obtain a replacement. According to Road and Track Magazine, one solution is to ask the previous owner to submit the replacement request (keep in mind that they’d likely need to pay a replacement title fee). Then, they could sign the duplicate title over to you when it arrives.
If that’s not possible, some states may allow you to obtain a title with a court order. To obtain a title this way, you’d first have to appear in court and have a judge award you ownership, says Road and Track Magazine. Applying for a title with a court order is typically successful, as long as the order includes some specific vehicle information (such as the car’s VIN and manufacturer), adds Road and Track Magazine. The magazine also states that you may need to a obtain a title through this process when you’ve inherited a vehicle from an estate and would like to sell it.
How quickly you can obtain a replacement title can also vary by state. To minimize fraud, for example, the Illinois Secretary of State does not issue replacement titles requested within 15 days of issuing an original title, or 30 days of issuing a duplicate title. You may also need to wait a few weeks to receive your title in the mail. However, some states (such as Michigan) offer same-day service if you need the new title right away.
Storing your vehicle title in a safe place may help minimize the risk of misplacing it. But if you do happen to lose your car’s title, remember to check your state’s requirements so you can be prepared when applying for a replacement.
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It’s time for a new car, and you’re wondering whether it is better to lease or buy. Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether you should lease or buy your next car.
Simply put, when you buy or finance a vehicle, you will own it once you have paid for it in full. When you lease a vehicle, you do not own it and have to return it when your lease term expires. Although, you may have the option to purchase the vehicle at the end of your lease, says Consumer Reports.
Typically, if you’re buying and financing a car, the monthly payments will be higher as you are paying for the full cost of the car plus interest on the loan, says Consumer Reports. Lease payments tend to be lower since you are not paying for the full price of the vehicle. You’re essentially paying for how much the car’s value depreciates while you drive it, according to Edmunds.
Consumer Reports notes that the initial costs of buying a vehicle include:
If you’re leasing a vehicle, according to Consumer Reports, you’ll typically have to pay:
To get an initial idea of whether leasing or buying a vehicle would be more expensive, you’ll need to add up all these costs and compare them.
From maintenance costs to monthly payments, there are other potential expenses to consider when deciding whether to lease or buy a vehicle.
You may want to consider maintenance expenses that come with leasing or owning a vehicle. With most leases, which are typically three years, the car will be under warranty for the duration of the lease, says Edmunds. (Standard auto warranties are 3 years or 36,000 miles, although some are longer, says Autoblog.com.) So, you’ll likely only be paying for routine maintenance, such as oil changes, with a leased vehicle. As a purchased vehicle goes beyond its warranty, you’ll typically have to pay out of pocket for any necessary repairs and routine maintenance.
When you lease a vehicle, the contract usually includes a maximum number of miles you can drive each year. If you exceed that mileage over the duration of your lease, Edmunds states that you will typically be charged 15 to 25 cents for each mile you’ve gone over the allowed mileage. Additionally, if there is excess wear and tear on the vehicle, you may incur fees at the end of your lease, says Edmunds.
While leasing a new car every few years can be appealing, consider if you want to be making monthly payments indefinitely. Consumer Reports notes that if you continue to lease cars, you’ll always be paying for a vehicle. If you buy a vehicle, however, those monthly payments stop once the car has been paid for, says Edmunds. If you keep the car after it’s paid off, you can then save that money or put it toward other expenses.
There are pros and cons to both leasing and buying a new car. By considering how either choice may affect your budget and other wants and needs, you’ll be better prepared to make the decision that’s right for you.
Originally posted on May 24, 2011.
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Buying a used car can be a good option when you’re looking for a quality vehicle without the higher price tag. While a used car can be a sensible option, buyers still need to make smart choices. There’s a lot to look for when buying a used vehicle, but here are some ways to help you choose the right car for you.
Inspect both the outside and inside of the vehicle. Look over the exterior of the vehicle, says CARFAX, checking for scratches, dents and rust. You probably don’t need to be worried about small dings or scratches, but larger areas of damage may be cause for concern. CARFAX also recommends checking to see that body panels line up evenly, as uneven panels may indicate the vehicle was in an accident but not repaired well. It’s also a good idea to open and close the doors, hood and trunk to see how easily they move. Kelley Blue Book (KBB) suggests checking for paint overspray on the inside of the hood, trunk and doors and to be sure the color of the vehicle matches on all parts. If you notice overspray or mismatched paint, that part was likely repaired and repainted.
Inspect the interior by sitting in all the seats and looking for unusual wear and tear in the upholstery, says CARFAX. If the interior of the car smells musty, check the carpet and floor mats for signs of a a leak or water damage.
Going for a test drive can help you determine the condition of the car and whether it’s a good fit for you, according to Edmunds. You may want to turn the key to the “accessory” position before starting the engine, says KBB. You should see all the dashboard warning lights go on. If they do not light up, or stay on when you turn the ignition, make sure the issue is inspected.
When you start the engine, KBB recommends listening for tapping and clicking sounds, which could indicate a problem. While on a test drive, keep your eyes and ears open. CARFAX suggests driving the car on different types of roads and at varying speeds to see if the transmission shifts smoothly. Make sure to note any unusual engine or brake noises, and whether all of the electronics in the car are working properly. Also, be sure the brakes work properly and do not pull the car to one side, says CARFAX.
While you should take a vehicle’s mileage into consideration, high mileage isn’t necessarily a bad thing and low mileage doesn’t always mean the car is in great shape.
There’s no simple answer to this question, because the way the car has been maintained and used may be more important than its mileage, according to AutoTrader. It’s a good idea to use caution when considering a car with high mileage, because certain components and engine parts simply don’t last forever, says AutoTrader. However, if the owner has kept up with maintenance and taken care of any issues, the car may have a lot of life left in it. AutoTrader also notes that how the car was used can make a difference. A car with 100,000 miles on mostly highways may be in better shape than a high-mileage car that was used mostly on city roads, which can be harder on a vehicle.
Low-mileage used cars can certainly be appealing, but it doesn’t necessarily make them a great deal. Low mileage can certainly mean less wear and tear and a longer life. However, if a car is driven infrequently, AutoTrader says that the plastic and rubber parts on the vehicle may dry out and get brittle. It’s also better for the drivetrain when the vehicle is used consistently. You may end up with a vehicle that needs a lot of repairs and reconditioning, says AutoTrader — which could cost you more in the long run.
It’s smart to check the mileage on a used vehicle, but keep in mind that how the vehicle has been maintained and used may be more important that what the odometer says.
Any car leaking fluids is generally a red flag for a needed repair. Check under the car to see if there’s any fluid leaking, says CARFAX. Black fluid might be an indicator of leaking oil, while green, yellow or pink fluid may indicate a leak in antifreeze and reddish fluid could be a leak in the transmission or power-steering fluid, says Cars.com.
A mechanic may be able to detect issues that you didn’t uncover, so consider having the car inspected by a professional, says Edmunds. Most auto service stations perform prepurchase inspections for a fee, and it can be well worth the price to avoid buying a car with major issues. After the inspection, you can feel better knowing you’re getting a sound car, says Edmunds. If there are some fixable issues uncovered, you could also use the inspection report to negotiate the purchase price with the seller.
To help ensure you’re being charged a fair price, make sure to compare prices for the same make, model and year with several sources. Checking and dealer prices can simply be done online. There are a number of online tools you can use to compare prices, including KBB and National Automobile Dealers Association Guides. Even though condition and mileage will play a role in price, you can still get a ballpark figure of the vehicle’s market value.
There’s a lot of information online that can help you check on a particular vehicle’s history as well as whether there are any recalls on it.
The Vehicle Identification Number, or VIN, can reveal a lot about a car. Checking a VIN decoder chart is a quick way to see if a used car’s VIN information matches up with what’s in the vehicle title and records, according to Edmunds. There are a number of VIN decoders available online, including one from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The VIN can also be used to see if there are any recalls on the vehicle. You can look up a vehicle by VIN on the NHTSA’s Safety Issues and Recalls page to see if the vehicle needs repairs due to a safety recall. Keep in mind, however, that there may not be information on an older vehicle, any nonsafety-related recalls or recently announced recalls. Certain brands and international vehicles may also not be listed.
A vehicle history report can help you see title problems, ownership history, service points and previous accidents, says KBB. You can get a vehicle history report online for a fee by entering the VIN or license plate number, says Edmunds. If you’re buying through a dealer, though, they may provide a history report for free.
Purchasing a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) car can be a wise choice because it usually offers the buyer an extra level of quality assurance. KBB states that each manufacturer has different standards for CPO vehicles, but they’re typically less than five years old and have less than 75,000 miles on them. Generally, the dealer has checked all major systems and reconditioned the vehicle. Many dealers also offer these vehicles with warranties.
To help ensure you’re buying a car you really like, Edmunds recommends that you don’t rush into buying a used car. Take the time to do your research and negotiate.
Following these tips may help you choose a used car that meets your needs and fits your budget. Knowing what to look for and consider can help you make an informed decision about your next vehicle.
Mike Orsini, Manager of Online Consumer Marketing at CARFAX, contributed to the video as well as earlier versions of this article.
Originally published on June 26, 2017.
The post What to Look for When Buying a Used Car appeared first on The Allstate Blog.
Unlike a brand new vehicle, pre-owned cars can have a history of accidents or mechanical issues. Unfortunately, some sellers of used vehicles may tamper with the cars in an effort to conceal certain problems. It’s important to learn the potential risks you may face when purchasing a pre-owned vehicle so you can lower the chance of buying a car with a hidden history. These tips can help you learn what to look out for:
Odometer fraud is an illegal practice that involves tampering with a car’s odometer, says the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Car sellers may do this to make the vehicle appear as though it’s traveled fewer miles than it actually has — which, in turn, may make the car more appealing to potential buyers. Fortunately, there are a few ways you may be able to see if the odometer has been tampered with. Here are some items you should check, according to the NHTSA:
Every vehicle is assigned a vehicle identification number (VIN) when it’s built, says AutoTrader. This number allows the vehicle to be identified through its lifetime, but sometimes, car thieves change the vehicle’s VIN to another similar, legally-registered number. This can make it difficult for buyers to determine the car has been stolen, says AutoTrader.
When you’re getting ready to buy a used car, look at its vehicle history report to help ensure the VIN hasn’t been changed. And, while a car’s VIN is typically printed near the base of its windshield on the driver’s side, it may also be stamped near the engine’s firewall or in the driver’s side door jamb, says Edmunds. It would be a good idea to verify that all VINs stamped on the car match before you decide to purchase it.
When a car is totaled, or has been significantly damaged, it is typically issued a special title. These may include salvage, junk or rebuild titles, according to the Better Business Bureau, and are issued so that car buyers know the history of the vehicle they’re dealing with. Some sellers may try to acquire a clean title by registering the vehicle with a new state, where a titling clerk may not recognize special title symbols from another state, says U.S. News and World Report. To help verify that you are not buying a car with a washed title, be sure to look at the vehicle history report to check for recent title transfers. You may also want to inspect a physical copy of the title to see if it appears to be altered in any way.
If you feel pressured to act quickly when buying a used car, you may want to think twice. Take time to inspect the car and research the vehicle’s history, and consider having it evaluated by a professional — it could save you frustration, time and money down the road.
Originally published on March 19, 2013.
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Buying a new car can be exciting. It’s a major purchase, after all. But, to make sure the joy lasts even after you buy, it’s important to get a handle on your budget up front to make sure you’re financially ready in the long term. Here are some steps to take to help you determine how much car you can afford:
Don’t make the mistake of deciding on the car you’d like to buy first, and letting that dictate your budget, says auto-enthusiast site Jalopnik. Instead, you should review your income (looking at your take-home pay) and then subtract your current monthly expenses to help determine how much money is left over every month.
Along with major monthly payments, like rent or a mortgage, be sure to account for other bills like utilities, student loans and credit cards, says Consumer Reports. You should also include some other recurring expenditures, for example, your monthly grocery budget or television service provider bill.
Don’t forget to budget for the cost of car ownership as well, says Jalopnik, which typically includes car insurance, gas, maintenance and unexpected repairs. Consumer Reports recommends that your budget should account for future expenditures as well, such as savings for vacations, emergencies, retirement savings or other financial goals.
If you’re planning to finance your car, after you’ve deducted all bills and expenses from your monthly income, the figure that remains is what you have available for things like a car payment. But, it’s not time for shopping just yet. Consider plugging that figure and your ideal loan terms into an auto loan calculator to give you an idea of the vehicle cost that’s likely within your means. It may be more beneficial to focus on the vehicle cost you can afford, rather than the monthly payment, because you may be tempted to stretch the loan out over a longer period of time to justify a more expensive car.
So, what’s a reasonable term for a loan? According to Edmunds, 72 months is the current average but they recommend no more than a 60-month loan — this is because the longer you make payments, the more interest you may pay.
After determining how much car you can afford, it’s time to start thinking about the actual vehicle you’d like to buy. The key to finding the right vehicle, according to U.S. News and World Report (U.S. News), is pinpointing where your wants intersect with your needs.
Start by thinking about who you’re going to be driving around. For instance, do you need a vehicle with ample space to accommodate a large family or kids’ car seats? You may also want to review safety ratings on different vehicles to learn how they may perform in a crash. Then, consider where you live and think about things like geography or climate. Do you need a car with all-wheel drive that may be more suitable for winter weather conditions? And, lastly, consider your lifestyle in terms of your daily work commute or weekend activities, says U.S. News.
An honest assessment of how you’ll use the vehicle will give you a better idea of what you’re looking for before starting your search.
Now it’s time to research specific vehicle models. You may prefer to research vehicle makes and models online, or visit a car dealership. Be sure to keep your budget and needs and wants criteria in mind while you begin to narrow options. As you narrow your choices to a few vehicles based on what’s important to you and within your budget, and take them for a test drive. But before you pick a winner, it can be helpful to make a few last financial decisions.
It’d also be a good idea to get an insurance quote on each vehicle at this point, so you know what to expect — depending on the make and model, you may find that the insurance premium can vary. And, before you commit to a loan, check your credit history, suggests the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. It may help you determine the interest rate you’ll pay (along with a more accurate monthly payment estimate).
When buying a new car, it takes some time and effort to get your budget right. But, by doing so, you may be less likely to end up with big payments on a car you love, but simply can’t afford.
The post How Much Can I Afford to Spend on a Car? appeared first on The Allstate Blog.
Automakers have always tried to incorporate the latest and greatest gadgets in the cars they make. If you’re old enough to remember a tape deck or an even eight-track player in your car’s dash, though, you know that cutting-edge technology doesn’t always stand the test of time. Here are a few features that were innovative for their time but you won’t likely find in today’s modern vehicles.
The first car that could wink its lights at you was the Cord 810, which Car and Driver says was introduced in 1936. It was a shift away from the round headlights of the era. In the 1960s, pop-up headlights became increasingly popular on sports cars because they provided unique styling while allowing cues, but they also allowed automakers to get around headlight height regulations. However, if the motor that raised the lights failed, one headlight was left in the raised position — a familiar phenomenon that Car and Driver calls “winking cars.”
The last mass-produced cars with pop-up lights were the 2004 Chevrolet Corvette and 2004 Lotus Esprit, says Car and Driver. Thankfully, regulations on headlights loosened over time, and car designers began incorporating headlights as part of a car’s exterior style.
While vinyl has made a comeback, most of us could not imagine playing records in our car. But in the 1950s and ’60s, Consumer Reports says you could do exactly that. In 1956, you could get an optional record player in Chrysler, DeSoto, Dodge and Plymouth vehicles.
The system featured a slide-out turntable under the dash, which could be turned on with the flip of a switch. However, Consumer Reports notes they did come with a number of issues, including the distraction of changing discs and the pressure required to keep the record needle in place wearing out the records. In-car record players (and the eight-track tape decks that followed them) were a long way from the satellite radio or wireless connections we see in cars today, but they did help pave the way for new in-dash entertainment options.
The 1948 Tucker Torpedo sedan pushed the boundaries of car tech in its day. And although only 51 cars were ever made, the Tucker pioneered some innovative safety features, according to Smithsonian.com. Known as the “Cyclops Eye,” the Tucker Torpedo featured a third, middle headlight, says the Speedway Motors Museum of American Speed. Whenever the car was turned more than 10 degrees, the headlight would turn on and swivel with the steering wheel to improve visibility around corners.
Despite the sleek design and innovations of the Tucker sedan, the company closed its doors in 1949. The Tucker legend is still strong — Francis Ford Coppola even directed a movie about Preston Tucker — and 47 of those original cars still exist, according to Smithsonian.com.
Years ago, automakers used to put gas caps at the back of the car, often in stealthy locations, says Jalopnik. Cars like the ’56 Chevy Bel Air had the gas cap hidden behind a taillight, which would swivel out of the way, while numerous cars from the 1960s and ’70s had their fuel fillers located behind the license plate.
Hiding the gas cap in a trick location streamlined the exterior style of these cars, but eventually, it was decided that fuel fillers that pointed to the rear could be dangerous. The problem was that if you got rear-ended, the pipe to the gas tank could break and spill gasoline onto the car and pavement — creating a fire hazard from even a minor fender bender. As a result, Jalopnik notes, today’s gas caps are generally located behind a fuel filler door on your car’s side.
Automakers have to think outside the box in order to develop new features. While the innovations on these cars may not have stood the test of time, the creative force behind them ultimately helped hone the cars that we’re driving today.
Originally published on May 1, 2012.
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Getting a new car can be exciting, but it’s also a big financial commitment. If you’re aware of frequent car-buying mistakes, though, you can make informed decisions as you go through the process. Here are some common blunders to avoid when you’re shopping for a new ride.
There’s a lot to consider before settling on the vehicle that fits your budget and lifestyle, so it makes good sense to start with some research. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety speaks to safety concerns with its comprehensive ratings that you can sort by make and model.
You may also want to look into some reviews on other features that are important to you. Sites such as Consumer Reports offer a variety of best/worst lists, like Best American Cars, Best New Cars under $30,000, Best/Worst Third-Row Seats and other rankings.
Doing the leg work to narrow down your list can help you focus when you actually begin shopping — either at the dealer or online.
Many buyers trade in their old car when shopping for a new one, because it can be an easy way to part ways with it. But experts suggest avoiding any talk about a trade-in until after you’ve negotiated the price of the new car. Consumer Reports says that’s because there’s too much opportunity for the salesperson to “work” the figures when you’re negotiating both vehicles, giving you a great deal on your trade-in, for instance, only to make up the difference on the cost of the new car.
Once you’ve settled the terms of the new car, then bring up the trade. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) says you should come prepared for negotiations by knowing your car’s worth, which you can check in the National Automobile Dealer Association’s NADA Guides, the Kelley Blue Book or other similar guides.
Once you’ve narrowed your options to a couple of models, Consumer Reports states that it’s important that you take a test drive. Passing on that can be a mistake, because there can be big variations in the handling of different models.
Drive each vehicle on the same day, for at least 30 minutes, Consumer Reports advises, so you can compare models more effectively. Consumer Reports also recommends driving the car over different road surfaces and, whenever possible, in various driving conditions. Take notes about the quality of the drive:
If you’re planning on financing your car, you’re not just limited to what the dealer offers. In fact, the FTC says a loan from a dealer may not be the best you can get. Shop around, the agency suggests, and consider options from banks, credit unions and online lenders.
When comparing financing, avoid focusing on the monthly payment, the FTC cautions, because it doesn’t accurately represent the total amount you’ll pay for the loan. Instead, the agency recommends comparing the annual percentage rates and the length of the loan to select the best deal.
Though it’s easy to get overwhelmed or even caught up in the excitement of buying a new car, avoiding these common car-buying mistakes can help you become a successful shopper.
Originally published on July 20, 2018.
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Raising a family can be a costly proposition, and buying the right family-friendly vehicle can be a significant expense. First off, you need something that’s large enough to hold the kids and all their cargo, from diaper bags and strollers to backpacks and hockey sticks. It also helps to combine storage space with fuel efficiency, … Continue reading Fuel-efficient and Family-friendly Used SUVs →
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Choosing the right pickup can be a challenging task, especially for someone who’s never bought a truck before. Yes, pickups today are available in just two light-duty segments (midsize and full-size) and are sold by only seven brands (Ford, Chevrolet, Ram, GMC, Toyota, Nissan and Honda). Yet each individual model can offer literally millions of … Continue reading How to Pick the Right Pickup Truck Cab →
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For many people, a luxury car’s appeal has a lot to do with its value as a status symbol. After all, a fancy German nameplate in your driveway makes a statement about your prosperity. For others, a luxury car’s value lies in its feature content. Premium cars are at the front of the line when … Continue reading 5 Premium Features to Look for in Your Next Used Luxury Car →
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Many drivers shopping for affordable luxury will turn to the used-car market, where they know they can find premium-brand vehicles at pre-owned prices. But there’s another way to squeeze even more value from this strategy: Look for a mainstream model equipped with luxury-grade amenities. These aren’t just the higher trim levels from standard models, either. … Continue reading 5 Premium Used Cars from Mainstream Auto Brands →
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Whether you buy a new or used vehicle, there are certain costs associated with car ownership. The most obvious is the out-the-door price, which is the bottom line number you’ll pay the dealer or private owner when she places keys in your hands. Knowing these costs, or at least having a grasp of what your … Continue reading What Does it Really Cost to Own a Car? →
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There are two types of performance cars. Some ignore frills to focus solely on delivering exceptional handling. Being sparsely equipped, they can be challenging to live with. Other performance cars provide speed and excitement that doesn’t come at the expense of comfort. If you prefer the latter and you’re shopping for a used car, you’ll … Continue reading 5 Used Luxury Cars That Offer Thrilling Performance →
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Compact cars are, obviously, compact in size. But that said, folks looking to stretch their legs will find noticeable differences inside the mainstream entries, especially when it comes to rear-seat accommodations. Somewhat surprisingly, the leading mainstream compacts have more front and rear legroom than popular premium choices like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class. We’ll use the C-Class to … Continue reading Compact Cars With Lots of Legroom →
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Many drivers have dreamed about racing at one time or another, whether it’s taking the checkered flag at Daytona or doing hot laps at the Nürburgring. But what you may not realize is that getting a taste of track-day driving can be both relatively easy and relatively inexpensive. You can find public track days at … Continue reading 5 Used Sports Cars You Can Take to the Track →
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