So, you’re in the market for a new car? Want to snake you don’t fall for a slick sales pitch, but actually end up with the right car for you sat the right price for you? Here’s what to do.
Table of Contents
Do Your Homework
It might sound like a bore and a chore, but before you do anything else, hit the books. Research is your best friend when it comes to buying a new car. Don’t stroll into a dealership without knowing what you want or, more importantly, what you should pay. Use online tools to compare models, features, and prices. Knowledge is power, and in this case, it could save you a pretty penny.
Of course, you are also going to want to research Citroen dealers or second-hand dealers or whatever, you arelooking for, to ensure you find dealers who you can trust because, trust me, there are plenty of good ones out there!
Timing is Everything
Believe it or not, timing can play a huge part in snagging a great deal. Dealerships often have quotas to meet, usually on a monthly, quarterly, or yearly basis. Shopping at the end of these periods can catch salespeople at their most generous. That’s when they’re ready to cut deals to move cars off the lot. So mark your calendar!
Test Drive Like a Pro
Never buy a car without taking it for a spin first. And when you do, really put it through its paces. Don’t just take the pre-planned, smooth-as-silk route the dealer suggests. Head for the hills, literally. Test the car on different roads, check the brakes, listen for rattles and roll the windows down to hear for any whistling or wind noise. Make sure it meets your needs, not just the salesperson’s commission goals.
Decode the Jargon
Walking into a car dealership can sometimes feel like stepping into another country where the language is just… car. APR, PCP, HP— it’s acronym soup! Brush up on the lingo before you go, and don’t be afraid to ask questions if they start throwing terms around that you don’t understand. You wouldn’t sign a contract in a foreign language; don’t do it in ‘car’ either.
Negotiate Like a Boss
When it comes to negotiation, channel your inner market trader. Don’t accept the first offer. It’s not rude to haggle; it’s smart. Start lower than what you’re willing to pay, and work your way up. And remember, there’s more to negotiate than just the price. Warranty extensions, servicing, and accessories are all on the table.
Check the Extras
Those optional extras? They’re often not so optional when it comes to your wallet. Be wary of the upsell and consider which features you really need. Heated seats and a built-in GPS might sound fancy, but if your driveway is more pothole than pavement, perhaps what you really need is upgraded suspension.
Armed with these tips, you should have no problem buying the right car for the right price without having to worry about a thing!
This is a contributed post.