The Ultimate Knowledge Toolkit for Car Purchasing

When it comes to any investment, the first step is research. Tyre kicking is not research. When armed with your research info, you will then need to proceed with patience.

Here is the ultimate car purchasing finance checklist:

Research

There is a wealth of knowledge online including reviews, statics, user chat forums and complaint forums. Arm yourself with this knowledge before wandering anywhere near a dealership. Even then, research should continue, for example, check the history of the vehicle against the engine VIN.

Make Sure Not To Buy The First Example You See

In the majority of instances, there are many examples of your desired automobile in many other locations. Take your time to visit a number of them. Don’t buy at the first dealership you visit. You can return to it but see others first.

The Test Drive Is Not A Fluffy Add On

A test drive is an important step. Listen for knocks, creaks and groans and insist on knowing the source of them all, in writing. Feel how the car corners; do you feel safe with that, or does it not suit your driving style.

Ask yourself:

  • Is it easy to see around you or does the shape create blind spots for you?
  • Is the dashboard easy to read for you?
  • Are there too many or too few notifications?
  • Can you easily reach the radio/Bluetooth?

Needs Versus Wants

That convertible is very sleek and fast even when standing still, but perhaps you should keep moving past it if that is not what you need—tough call but necessary. Whilst you might need space for a family, don’t buy a gas and money guzzling 4×4 if you only go off-road once a year, instead hire one for that occasion. Buy a spacious, eco-friendly family car if that’s what you need. Unless you have money to burn, financially speaking you should stick to your needs.

The Price Tag

Even sensible cars come with expensive options. Passion now could mean pain later. Buying a depreciating asset like a car needs rational thought. Take into account the future financial needs of the family, not the current financial status.

Ask yourself:

  • If there is an economical speed bump, will you still be coping with this investment?
  • If an emergency happens in the family, do you have the capacity to handle it financially?

The car will seem very unimportant at times like these.

Post Purchase Costs

It is essential to consider gas usage, maintenance costs, the depreciating value and other post-purchase costs. You won’t want to be blindsided down the line so be sure you look at more than just the immediate price of the vehicle.

Contact ZEP Finance today with any questions you may have on your new car purchase or new car loan on the Gold Coast.

We will gladly be your sounding board if you need an objective assessment of the vehicle on a need versus want basis. We will also shop around for the absolute best finance deal for you, giving you long term support. If you want to make sure you have considered all the options phone us today or email us

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