No matter who you are or what you drive at the moment, we all have that fabled dream car that we fantasise about getting the keys for. Whether it’s a Ferrari, a BMW or a Bentley, when you’re actually in the position to purchase that dream car, it can be tempting just to race into a showroom and put down a deposit without getting the best price. Even worse, you may find that your dream car doesn’t live up to your expectations, leaving you feeling beyond disappointed.
So, before you make any mistakes, here are some top tips you should follow before you sign on that dotted line.
Have a Test Drive
It’s absolutely essential that you take any car you’re thinking about buying for a test drive. Especially if your dream car has far more power under its hood than you’re used to, you may find that you can’t handle that car. It’s also important to test the car to see that you can comfortably drive it, as many high-end sports cars can be low to the ground and/or compact inside, which may be uncomfortable if you’re tall. Most showrooms will offer free test drives to customers, so make sure you take them up on their offer, or you may find yourself stuck with a car you don’t want to drive.
Avoid Pushy Salesmen
Whenever you talk to a car salesman, you have to keep in mind that no matter how helpful or friendly they are, at the end of the day, they are looking to score themselves a tasty commission. A pushy salesman can try to persuade you into adding a lot of fancy – and expensive – additions to your new car that you don’t need. They may even try to persuade you into a car that you don’t want, rather than waiting for your dream car. Instead, try to take some breathing space from salesmen before making any big decisions.
Consider Comprehensive Car Insurance
Comprehensive car insurance is a must-buy for your new car to ensure that you’re covered for any accidental damage. For the best deal, you should compare policies online. It’s also smart to look up insurance costs before committing to any car, as you may find that the insurance costs are more than you can afford.
Trade in Your Old Car
When looking at a car’s price, it’s smart to keep in mind that most price tags are negotiable, especially If you have your old car to trade in. Before negotiating a lower price, though, it’s a good idea to find out how much your old car is worth using an online valuation tool. That way you’ll know if you’re getting a good deal or not.
Look at Used Cars
When we’re fantasising about our dream cars, we are most likely thinking about a shiny new car. But, these days, you can find numerous luxury cars available second-hand that have hardly been used at a lower price. Before you commit to a new car, take the time to browse some used cars online first. You may be surprised at the bargains you find.
It’s also a good idea to be as informed as you can be about the history of the car as you never know how the previous owner maintained it. Search for the vehicle’s potential risks and always have an eye on its past records. Nowadays, you can find an online car checker to keep you aware and reduce your chances of getting caught in scams.
