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The Process of Buying a New Car... Page 2
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No matter the method you use to buy your car, it's important to realize that knowledge is
power and preparation is everything. The "To Do" list that follows will more
than adequately prepare you for a successful car buying experience. It involves a lot of
work, but remember, you are about to part with a tremendous number of hard-earned dollars
and you'll likely spend the next five to seven years with the car you choose. Besides,
there is significant reward. Not only will you have the fun of test driving loads of
different vehicles, you'll end up with a great car selected just for you and your specific
life-style.
We are sure that over time we'll hear more dealer comments like, "Oh no, here
comes another one of those WOMAN MOTORIST women. Might as well cut right to the quick with
her. Save us both time."
We encourage you to share your experiences with us and other WOMAN MOTORIST readers. Write
us with questions (we'll answer as many as we can) and also, tell us how you fared. Were
you happy with the process? More empowered? Others can benefit from you and what you
learned, too.
Now to get started get yourself a clean notebook (a steno pad or 3-ring binder works great
too), label it "My Car," and get on with the items on this "To Do"
list. Follow the list diligently and make thorough notes. Following these procedures will
provide you with a notebook filled with information that applies specifically to YOUR
NEEDS. The process of acquiring this information and its written result not only helps you
make an intelligent vehicle decision, it helps keep you on track in the emotional
dealership environment:
THE "TO DO" LIST
- Write down all the cars you think you might like to own. While you could go a little
crazy here and write down everything from a Lamborghini to a Silver Cloud Rolls Royce, you
really need to give serious consideration to your life-style while making this list. What
vehicles would fit your needs? Make life easier, more fun? List every car you can think
of.
- This puzzle piece is about making an intelligent vehicle selection from the myriad of
vehicles available today, it is important that you first match your life-style with a
vehicle type that suits it best. Are you a fun-loving single? Choose a sports car, coupe,
convertible. Do you have an active family? Maybe a minivan or a station wagon is best for
you. Outdoor enthusiasts should look at a sport utility vehicle or pickup. Do you have to
carry loads of stuff? Consider a station wagon, truck or SUV. There's a vehicle today to
meet EVERYBODY'S needs. Click on " Vehicles and Their Categories
." It can help make your list of choices a comprehensive one.
- Gather information from the Internet (and other sources, like the library) about your
car options. Several magazines give a roster of new vehicle opportunities, including a
short synopsis and price range for each vehicle listed. For assistance in perusing the
Net, read on " Car
Buying Help from the Internet.
- Determine what you can afford to pay. Our " What Can I Afford to Spend on a
New Car? " will help you through this step. This is a very important assignment.
Making a financial commitment to a car you can really afford is the smartest move you can
make. You'll be able to enjoy the car and never give your payment another thought.
Remember, too, the added costs of owning a car like fuel, license and registration. This
is also a good time to price insurance premiums for each of your car options.
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