Department | Vehicle Purchasing

What Are Some Mistakes Made When Buying a Car?

It is that time! Time for a new car. You have been saving up for months, and you could not be happier. Don’t get in too big of a rush, though. This is an important decision, and you don’t want to make a mistake that you will have to live with for five or more years. We want you to have a successful buying experience, so we’ve compiled a list of some common mistakes that car buyers make.

Uh Oh…Mistake!

  • Rushing a trade-in
  • It is very important that you get the best deal you can on the car before you start talking trade-in. Sometimes if you trade in, it may actually end up costing you more if you have not paid off your old car. So in order to make sure you are in control, get the best deal first. Then, when you find the best deal and lock in a price, you can negotiate a trade-in.
  • Buying the wrong car
  • This happens when wants and lifestyles do not match. If you and your husband/wife are going to start a family, then you probably do not want to purchase a BMW Z3. You will want something larger that accommodates your growing family. So, when you get a car, make sure you take future plans into consideration. A car will have payments that last for a while, so the car also needs to last. You do not want to have to get a new car in one or two years.
  • High emotions
  • Car dealers are well-trained. They know when to exploit your emotions. If you give too much away, you may be in trouble. Do not get overly excited about your car. You need to remain level-headed in order to avoid getting taken advantage of. If anything, you want to appear uninterested. Make the car dealer work to sell you on the vehicle.

Limit Mistakes and Maximize Victories

  • It’s not over until you decide it’s over
  • Do not let them tell you when negotiations are over. You have the money, and they want a sale. So, naturally, you are in control. If they say that they have made you the best offer, then make sure that is true. Usually, you can always push them a little more.