How to make buying a car less stressful
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Buying a car is stressful. Between comparing car models, features and prices, it can sometimes be difficult to find something special. And, in the end, it can leave you feeling exhausted and frustrated. AT…
Buying a car is stressful. Between comparing car models, features and prices, it can sometimes be difficult to find something special. And, in the end, it can leave you feeling exhausted and frustrated. The good news is that there are several ways to make buying a car easier.
Method 1 of 3: Get funding pre-approved first
By getting auto loan pre-approved before buying a car, you can skip the cars you can't afford and focus on the ones you can. This, in turn, can save you a lot of stress as you only look at cars that you have the potential to buy. And even when sellers try to use high-pressure tactics, you can still only spend what you have approval for.
Step 1: Find a lender. The first step in the pre-approval process requires you to find a lender.
You can get a car loan from a bank, credit union, or online.
Look for financing, as different lenders offer different interest rates and terms.
Step 2: Apply for funding. Once you have found a lender, getting approved for financing is the next step.
Depending on your credit score, you are eligible for certain interest rates.
Car buyers with bad credit can get a loan, but at a higher rate. The best interest rates are reserved for borrowers with the best credit, usually 700 and up.
- FunctionsA: Find out what your credit score is before contacting a lender. By knowing your credit score, you know what interest rates you are eligible for.
Step 3: Get Approved. Once approved, you need to find the car you want for the amount approved by the lender.
Keep in mind that most lenders have certain restrictions on where you can buy a car while getting pre-approved. This usually includes franchised representation and excludes private sellers.
The age and mileage of the car you want to buy is also limited. You should check with the lender for any restrictions before applying for a loan.
Method 2 of 3: Check online first
Buying a car online is another way to avoid the hassle and stress of buying a car. This allows you to choose a car that suits your budget from the comfort of your own home.
Step 1: Research the vehicles you are interested in. Decide which vehicles you are interested in and then research them online.
This can save you time at the dealership as you can look up average prices and check the vehicle's specifications. Sites like Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds give you the car's fair market value and also let you add the features you want.
Visit the dealer websites and check out the vehicles you are interested in to find out their prices and included features.
Step 2: Check car reviews online.. In addition to the vehicles themselves, check out what others have to say about them.
Sites such as Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds.com, and Cars.com offer reviews of various vehicles.
Step 3. Visit online car stores.. Avoid the dealership and buy a car online.
You can visit a pre-certified car dealer like Carmax to find a car. While you have to go down to your local Carmax office, the price you see online is what you pay as there is no haggling.
Another option is Carsdirect.com, which allows you to view the cars available at your local dealerships. Once you have selected a vehicle, you are connected to the dealership's internet department to negotiate a price.
Method 3 of 3: When buying a car
In addition to researching and searching the internet, and getting pre-approved for funding, there are certain steps you can take to make buying a car easier when you visit the dealership. Make a list of questions you want to ask about the car, be aware of possible additional transaction fees, be sure to test any car you're interested in, and give yourself plenty of time to make your final decision.
Step 1: Think about what questions to ask. Make a list of questions you want to ask about the vehicle in general or other factors in the buying process such as financing.
Here are some good questions to ask:
- What fees can you expect when buying a car? This includes any sales taxes or registration costs.
- What is the documentation fee? This is the amount paid to the dealer for the performance of the contract.
- Does the car have parts or an alarm? These add-ons add to the overall cost of the vehicle.
- How many miles does the car have? Test drives can increase the mileage of a new car. You should re-price a new car if it has more than 300 miles on the odometer.
- Will the dealership deliver the car? This saves you the expense of even going to the dealership to pick up your car if you can't. If you need an extended warranty or other service, talk to the seller by phone and adjust the contract if necessary.
Step 2: Used car fees. When buying a used car, be aware of some of the fees you may have to pay.
Some of these fees include sales tax, vehicle history report fees, or any extended warranty you choose to add when you purchase the vehicle.
You should also be aware of any checks you may need, as determined by your state. General checks include smog and security checks.
Step 3: Test Drive. Take a test drive of any car you are interested in.
Drive it in places similar to where you would like to drive, such as in hilly areas or in traffic jams.
Take your car to a trusted mechanic to have it checked before you buy it.
Step 4: Take your time when making a decision. Once you have agreed with the dealer about the vehicle, take your time with the decision.
Sleep on it if you need to. Make sure you are 100 percent sure you want to buy a car.
List the pros and cons of buying a car, writing them down as needed.
By keeping certain factors in mind, you can reduce the stress of buying a car. Also, be sure to ask one of our experienced mechanics to inspect your vehicle before purchasing.
