Go to a car dealer can be stressful. But you can make it easy and find a lot of things with these seven steps to becoming one authorized dealer visit.
Step 1: Do your research
First, visit the website and do your research. Use a tool like Autoblog’s Car search to help determine what’s most important to you like safety, energy saving, performance or price and narrow down your options. Government and nonprofit websites are also helpful.
Step 2: Set a budget
Determine your budget and stick to it! Paying too much could leave you with a car worth less than what you owe on your loan. That’s called “underwater”, and that’s bad news! And if the thought of haggling with a seller give you a headache, shows like Autoblog’s Smart shoppingor Costco Auto Programcan offer hassle-free, pre-agreed rates based on what fair people are paying in your area.
Step 3: Do some agent re-investigation
Go to the internet to compare dealer reviews from other buyers, so you can start strong and avoid stress! Find dealers that participate in the car buying program. They tend to have better customer service.
Step 4: Approach first
Email the agent before you visit, so you can ask and record your questions digitally. Then follow up with a call. To save time, make sure they have the car you’re looking for. And if you want to test drive multiple cars, plan visits so you can drive them again.
Step 5: Visit the dealer
Armed with your research, you’re ready to walk through the door! If you’ve been in contact with a salesperson, ask for them when you arrive. When you’re ready for a test drive, prepare a short checklist of things to look out for, e.g. Is it quiet inside? Can you maneuver it easily in a parking lot? How is the view around? Do you feel confident on the highway? The agent will almost always be with you and you can ask them questions like: Do you offer? Free maintenance over a period of time? What safety features does this vehicle have? Can we demo the entertainment system?
Step 6: After test drive
Be prepared for the agent to ask you, “How do I convince you? buy this car today? “or adopt other high-pressure tactics. But you need other dealers to make sure you’ve compared all the cars on your list before you buy. So remember: The car the car will still be there tomorrow and you can politely leave. Leave your contact information with the salesperson and take their business card with you so you can follow up easily.
Step 7: Pull the trigger
When you’re ready to pull the trigger, call the dealer and make an appointment. Once you sign all the paperwork, you may be offered services such as extended warranty or coating. Plan to say no to all. It’s almost never a good deal. When buying a car, knowing what to expect can reduce stress and give you confidence in the transaction you make.
Enjoy yours new car!
