Your car is probably the second largest purchase you will undertake, so understandably, you want to know as much as possible before signing on the dotted line. But most dealerships will refrain from telling you all they know about the car they are selling you.
Here are some hidden car-buying tips that car dealers won’t tell you:
Conduct some research ahead of time
Buying a car can be a stressful experience, so it’s essential to gather as much information as possible. Start by checking out car reviews and researching the makes and models you’re interested in. Joining a car club can also help you learn more about which models appeal to you. Additionally, visit dealership websites to get a sense of where to shop and what prices to expect. If you’re leaning toward a used car, online tools like a VIN-based window car lookup could be particularly helpful.
For example, using ford window sticker from vin could allow you to access the original window sticker for that Ford model, providing valuable details such as factory-installed options, fuel efficiency, and warranty information. This could ensure you know exactly what you’re buying and helps prevent potential surprises. Once you’ve gathered all this information, decide whether you’d prefer a new or pre-owned car. If it is the latter, then you can consider perusing through the collection of car dealerships like – Think Carsmart of Farmington (alternatively other outlets as well depending on your location). Do keep in mind that these simple steps will save you time and money.
Leverage banking rewards programs
We get tons of questions from car shoppers every week. One issue they frequently face is qualifying for car financing. But we’ve found that you can use your credit card rewards to save money and qualify for better terms on a car loan. Credit cards have higher interest rates and fees than personal loans, but they offer the opportunity to leverage your rewards.
Shop the manufacturers’ website
Shop from the manufacturers’ website rather than a used car dealer. The manufacturer’s website is the best place to get accurate information on a new car’s features, overall specifications, and pricing. Shopping for a new car can be exciting but overwhelming, especially if you don’t know what questions to ask. By shopping with a Local Chevy Dealer, or the make of your choice you can get personalized assistance, explore a range of financing options, and even schedule test drives to ensure you’re making the best decision for your needs.
Get your own financing
When buying a car, most people think of the financial aspects like how much it will cost, how much the dealer will charge, and the monthly interest. But there’s much more to being an informed car buyer than knowing your interest rate. You can take steps to ensure you get the best deal on a car without getting burned by hidden fees.
Give the Car One Final Inspection Before You Drive Off
You are probably aware that car buying situations can get pretty complicated, involving multiple parties and a lot of details to handle. While things might seem smooth sailing most of the time, there is always that one thing you need to be extra cautious about – faults or issues. So, whether you are shopping at a florida car dealership or elsewhere, it’s vital to give everything a thorough check-over to dodge any sneaky problems that could pop up down the line.
Research the extended warranty
When it comes time to buy a new car, you may be tempted to sign on the dotted line and let the salesperson do all the legwork, but doing a little research beforehand will make your decision easier. First, make sure you get a good warranty on the vehicle. Even if you think you’re a good driver, there’s always a chance that you could get into an accident, and getting the best warranty will help minimize any financial risks. Moreover, you can test drive the vehicles you’re interested in, but be sure to do your research on the warranty before you sign the papers.
Email or contact the salesperson directly
Before even stepping foot into a car dealership, you should know what you want. While it can be tempting to walk in and pick out a car, it would be in your best interest to email or call the salesperson before arriving at the dealership. You’ll be able to tell them exactly what you’re looking for, and possibly they’ll share some of their secret car purchasing tips with you.
Negotiate like a professional
All said and done, the process of buying a car is exciting, but don’t let a car dealership mislead you into buying a car that’s the wrong one for you. Because of that, it’s important to know how a car dealership works. This information will empower you to make smart, informed decisions about your car buying experience.