Put on the brakes before you buy a new car
The excitement of driving a new car can, for some, be unparalleled (especially if you’ve just purchased the newest Lamborghini Gallardo LP560/4 – my personal fave). But, prior to purchase, it’s important to consider many buying factors that are often ignored in lieu of the thrill of owning a new vehicle. Don’t get me wrong – searching for the coolest rims is just as important as anything else, but, what good will it be if you end up with a car that needs more attention than your dog?
First thing’s first. You have to find the right car for you. A Ferrari might be a dream car, but, it’s probably not a good choice for someone with a tight budget. Remember, you’ll want to drive the car, and these days, things like insurance, maintenance and most especially gas, need to be a part of your budget analysis.
Striving to be the newest and hottest Michael Knight in his K.I.T.T. car will definitely impress your kids, but, strapping the kids to the hood will likely get you arrested. Make certain to make particular considerations such as whether you need a specific type of family vehicle, whether you’ll need 4-wheel drive for navigating certain geographies, or, if you use your car quite often, whether you’ll want a hybrid car for better fuel economy.
And now…here’s where the library can help you in your search for the perfect car.
RESEARCH. RESEARCH. RESEARCH.
You don’t want to go shopping for a car without knowing anything about car shopping. Therefore, besides visiting dealerships throughout your research, the library can provide you with magazine car reviews that will help you gauge which cars are good on gas, safety, latest technology, reliability, etc. In the Science & Technology Department at the North York Central Library, you can find access to both these print and online reviews that are provided by professional publishers:
- MotorTrend magazine
- Car and Driver
- Consumer Reports
- Edmunds.com
Read up and search long and hard for the right car, and before you know it, you’ll be driving off into the sunset…or onto your next mission…or off to your next car show…or…well, you get the idea.
Drive safe!
10 thoughts on “Put on the brakes before you buy a new car”
If your car brakes pull a little the first time you use them in the rain, they are simply adjusting to the condition. A few light taps on the brake pedal to dry the rotors when you get caught in the rain can often eliminate that uncomfortable pulling.
Thanks Tyre Changers. Good tip! Want to share anymore? 🙂
Keeping in mind a vehicle’s maintenance costs is an important consideration before buying any car. What good is a new vehicle if you cannot sustain its upkeep?
That’s true Adam Preece. But, you’d be surprised how many people overlook their budget just to own the car that they want. It’s crazy.
Great research would be in the reviews of the cars you wanted. You’ll know things positive and negative in different angle. And another thing some cars do have pricey maintenance compare to others, so do also have that in budgeting.
I agree. Research will have you thinking about the cars differently, as well as getting a more objective view on their pluses and minuses. Thanks! :o)
Yeah. There’s no point in jumping into the first cool car you see. The bottom line is research. In order to pick out the best vehicle for you, looks and function-wise, don’t hesitate to take some time to try out your choices.
Good advice. Trying out the possibilities may even have you changing your mind about what you had wanted originally. Thanks for the post!
You need to consider the long-term impact of a car. Calculate its total cost; not only the payment for the car, but the necessary maintenance as well. Where’s the convenience in owning a mode private mode of transportation if your budget is being strained? Take your time and choose wisely.
I agree Tyra. A lot of people simply consider the concept of owning a car, without thinking about its total cost. It’s really not that difficult to find out what will be involved in the long run. Research is the key. Thanks for the post 🙂