Buying your first car is kind of a big deal, not to mention a BIG investment. There’s a lot more to look at besides what car looks cool. So how will you know you’re making the right decision? We’ve tried to fit all of the information you’ll need to decide in this handy little guide. You’ll be on the road in no time!
Step 1: Determine Your Budget
The cost of a new car can be intimidating. If there’s one thing you DON’T want to do, it’s look online for the car of your dreams, just to find out you can’t afford it at the dealership. But there are plenty of ways to save for an affordable car, and today’s financing options, plus the availability of high-quality used cars mean that owning a vehicle is within reach.
Start by figuring out a price range you can afford. By deciding on a realistic budget, your goal will seem much more attainable. There are multiple factors to consider, including how much you have in savings, how much you earn or can pay a month and ways you can cut expenses to put that extra money towards a vehicle instead.
When preparing to buy a car, keep the following things in mind:
If you can afford to pay the full cost upfront, you’ll save a significant amount on interest and may even be able to negotiate a discount.
If your credit history isn’t up to par, you might have some trouble arranging financing. Your bank, credit union or even insurer may be able to provide a loan, but you’ll probably need someone, such as a guardian or relative with an employment and credit history to cosign your loan.
Even with financing, the biggest cost will be upfront. Costs such as titling and registering must be paid when you purchase a vehicle. And the more you can put down, the lower your monthly payments will be. Saving more, and saving early, can help get your payment to an affordable amount. Still don’t think you’ll have enough? See if a family member can help you cover the initial costs.
While financing deals vary, use this simple rule of thumb to estimate how much your monthly payment will be: with a 48-month loan, you’ll need to pay about $25/month for every $1,000 you borrow. Try to avoid any repayment period longer than 60 months. You may also find this calculator helpful.
Don’t sign any financial agreement before reading it thoroughly. If you have a hard time understanding anything, ask for clarification.
Don’t forget about the added expenses that come with owning a car, such as gas, maintenance and insurance.
Keep your other bills in mind. You might think you have a specific budget for a car and all the extra costs that come with it, but it’s easy to forget all of the other expenses you pay in a month. Calculate any monthly bills you may have such as rent (or a mortgage), utilities, your cell phone bill, even any monthly subscriptions, then add your potential car payment to that. If the total bill seems too close to your monthly income, you might have to rework your car budget.
Consider visiting several financial institutions, as well as the car dealership, to find the cheapest option available to you. The interest rate on a car loan is based on a number known as APR (Annual Percentage Rate). While some lenders offer loans with an APR of 3% or less, rates this low are usually reserved for people with excellent credit histories; expect yours to be up to twice as much.
Alternatives to Buying a Car
Leasing a Vehicle
Can’t afford a large down payment? You may want to consider a lease. Leasing a car is like renting an apartment. You pay a certain amount each month to use it, but at the end of the agreement the car must be returned to the dealer.
For no down payment and the same monthly payment, drivers can often afford a more expensive car under a lease. On the other hand, with a lease, the car is not yours and you won’t get anything for it when it’s time for a new one. Furthermore, the dealer may limit the number of miles you can travel and require that you take out additional insurance on the car. If you’re a minor, you may also need a parent to take out the lease for you, as leases are not typically available to people under 18.
Try Out a Temporary Ride
Before owning or leasing you can give ownership a test drive. Alternative modes of transportation include renting a car, joining a car-sharing program and borrowing a ride from your parents or friends.
Step 2: Do Your Research
Once you know just how much you can spend on your car, it’s time to weigh your options. By spending some time researching before you buy, you’ll have a much better chance of finding a car that you can afford and meets your needs.
The first thing to consider is how you’re going to use a vehicle. Ask yourself:
Will you need to drive for school, work or sport activities?
How much traveling will you do on average?
Are other family members planning to drive your car or get rides from you?
What features do you need your car to have?
Are there any technologies you have to have or know you don’t want?
Do you plan to transport a lot of luggage or passengers on a regular basis?
Answering these questions will help you identify a particular body style (sedan, minivan, SUV), size and performance that makes sense for your situation.
As you consider these questions, keep in mind that your goal should be to minimize expenses. Give serious consideration to the question of whether you really need a car of your own, especially if you’re unsatisfied by the options available at your budget. It may be better to wait and save for something better.
Where to Find Car Listings
While you can find car listings in the newspaper and other free local guides, most of the same listings can be found online with more detailed information. Plus, it’s easier to save and share online listings for later reference.
Many online car searches typically provide each seller’s price, so as you review your options, be sure to determine what a fair price to pay is for each model. Some of the most important factors you should be looking at include:
Safety
Reliability
Fuel economy
Technology features
Resale value
Some of the top car listing sites include:
Cars.com Advanced Search: Search cars near you by body type, transmission type, engine power and more to make sure you get the performance you need.
Edmunds Car Finder: Use this tool to search an extensive range of features like keyless ignition and navigation systems, as well as by price and fuel efficiency.
Consumer Reports: Get safety and reliability information from the national leader in product analysis and information.
Kelley Blue Book: This trusted resource highlights reviews and price range recommendations for every class of car. There are also tools to help you research your options.
J.D. Power: Famous for its industry awards, this site can help you learn more about the best options among the cars you’re considering.
Yahoo! Autos: Peruse a wide range of car news, reviews and buying guides on this site.
Insurance Institute of Highway Safety: Find out how the cars you’re considering performed during rigorous crash tests.
fueleconomy.gov: Research fuel efficiency ratings for the cars on your list with this official government site.
Step 3: Decide on a New or Used Car
One big decision you’ll have to make is whether you want to purchase a new car or a used car. Your budget and research should tell you whether a new vehicle is an option. If so, it’s time to compare new versus used.
New Car Pros
Low initial maintenance costs
Superior fuel economy
More advanced safety features
Most repairs are covered by the manufacturer’s warranty for at least a year
In many states, inspection requirements do not initially apply
Easier to customize with the features you want
Latest technology features
Used Car Pros
Typically costs significantly less than comparable new cars
Insurance rates are usually lower
Greater variety of choices that aren’t limited to the current model year
Can offer better value than a new car
Depending on the models, a used vehicle can have just as many safety features
Can get high-end finishes for a better price
Most first-time car buyers are on a budget, which is one reason why these drivers typically opt for a used car. Another factor to consider is that, with a used car, you can get upgrades that might not be affordable on a new model.
Take Precautions When Buying a Used Vehicle
The fact of the matter is that when you buy a used car you’re more vulnerable to unexpected problems. With a new car sold by the manufacturer, you can be reasonably confident that it hasn’t been in an accident or tampered with. A used car could have been used in any number of ways, and just because it doesn’t look damaged doesn’t mean there’s not a problem you can’t see.
Used car sellers often have an incentive to minimize signs of wear and damage. Some unscrupulous dealers have been even known to roll back the odometer. Remember, used cars don’t necessarily come with a warranty, so if something goes wrong, you’re on your own!
Here are a few ways you can protect yourself during the purchase process:
Avoid dealers that specialize in cheap used cars and crazy deals. Other used car sellers, including individual sellers, are usually more reliable. It’s a good idea to check used car dealers with the Better Business Bureau or a local consumer protection agency before you buy.
If the car is much cheaper than comparable vehicles, that may be a sign that something’s wrong with it. Consult the Kelley Blue Book to figure out what’s a reasonable price for the car.
Ask an independent mechanic to check the car out before you buy it, especially if you’re purchasing from an individual. If the seller has nothing to hide, he or she shouldn’t have a problem with this. Having a professional look the car over can help you discover what, if anything, was missed on the vehicle history report.
While it may be tempting to buy an older used car, either because it’s cheaper or you like the style, be aware that because older cars often lack electronic stability control (ESC) and airbags, teens driving them are significantly more likely to be in a fatal crash. Moreover, the older a car is, the more its features and components become a liability, as they can be difficult and costly to replace. Be sure to review the latest report from the IIHS on the safest used cars for teens.
Get the VIN
Before purchasing a used car, be sure to find out its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). There are several sites online that allow you to check a vehicle’s history using the VIN, so you can determine whether it’s been stolen or involved in a significant collision. You can also use the VIN to find out if a recall has been issued for the car.
Protect Yourself When Buying From a Private Seller
Finally, protect yourself when you go to check out a used car being sold by a private seller. While most advertisers just want to sell their car, some people set up phony used car listings to lure in victims to rob them.
Never go to a meeting by yourself. Insist on meeting in a neutral public place during daylight hours. And never bring a large wad of cash with you when you go. For transactions like this, a check or money order is safest.
For loads more advice on buying a used car, check out the Federal Trade Commission website.
Step 4: Decide on an Electric or Gas Vehicle
Even after you’ve decided on whether to buy a new or used car, you might also decide to weigh the costs of buying an electric or a gas car. Let’s compare the two, shall we?
Electric Car Pros
Energy efficient
Reduced emissions
Fuel savings
Depending on where you live, you might be able to get a tax credit for driving electric
High performance
Latest technology features
Gas Car Pros
Lower upfront costs to buy
More available pumps at gas stations than electric charging stations
Less time fueling
Longer driving range
More makes and models to choose from
Longer battery life
There’s a lot to consider when trying to decide between gas or electric. Buying a gas vehicle might cost you less up front, but living in a state that offers tax credits for driving electric AND the rising cost of fuel might mean driving electric can cost you less in the long run.
Step 5: Take a Few Test Drives
While research can help you figure out what’s out there and help narrow down your choices, it can’t tell you how it will actually feel to be behind the wheel. A car that looks good on paper might not drive as well as you think it does. It’s important to test drive several models so you can learn how performance can vary from vehicle to vehicle.
Test Driving a Car at a Dealership
A test drive is important whether you’re buying a new car or a used one from a dealer or private seller. If you’re buying from a dealer, you can probably just show up at a time that’s convenient for you. Most people shop for cars on the weekend, so the salesperson may not be able to give you as much time then. It’s a good idea to plan on test-driving a car for at least half an hour so you have a chance to find out how it handles on different road types and in different environments.
Test Driving a Car From a Private Seller
If you’re buying from a private seller, be sure to call ahead to schedule an appointment. When you’re talking to the seller, try to find out as much as you can. Ask about:
How many miles the vehicle’s traveled
How long it’s been since it’s had maintenance performed
Whether it’s ever been in a crash
If anything is currently broken
Don’t feel shy about bringing up items you’re concerned or curious about. After all, if it turns out the car isn’t what you’re looking for, it’s better to know ahead of time so you can avoid wasting the seller’s time.
When you go to test drive a car, we recommend that you bring a parent or other knowledgeable adult along with you (this is especially important if you’re meeting with a private seller). Having an adult with you that’s bought a car before can ensure you’re taken seriously and treated with respect. Moreover, the adult may be able to point out potential issues you may not have noticed.
The Pre-Drive Inspection
When you finally have the car in front of you, perform a pre-purchase inspection before taking it for a spin. Look all around the car for any signs of damage or vehicle problems.
Remember these tips for inspecting a car you’re thinking of buying:
Always check out a car during the day. At night, it will be hard to assess the car’s condition or notice repainted spots that may indicate damage that’s been concealed.
Be ready to review everything. Don’t be afraid to get on your hands and knees to check for leaks under the car or to ask to peek under the hood so you can check the condition of the engine, the fluid levels, etc.
Use all your senses. Sometimes the only way you’ll be able to notice a problem is by smelling it or hearing it during your test drive.
Before you get on the road, adjust the seat, the mirrors and the vehicle controls so you can give your full attention to how well they work. Have the seller talk you through the car’s electronic features and dashboard indicators, then try them out for yourself.
Even if you’ve researched the car already, be sure to also review the window stickers if you’re buying from a dealer. These stickers will give you accurate information about the performance and features of the car you’re looking at. In particular, all new cars are required to have a detailed Monroney sticker attached to the side window with official ratings and benchmarks, specifics about where the car was manufactured and the suggested retail price.
What to Do Before, During and After Taking a Test Drive
Finally, it’s time to take the car out on the road! If possible, use an Internet mapping service to plan a route ahead of time that includes city and freeway driving, curved and inclined roads and roadways with different kinds of traction. That way, you’ll have a chance to see how the car handles in different environments. Let the salesperson know about your plans so he or she can help you have the best experience possible.
During the test drive, be alert for any performance issues that might signify a serious problem. Only by testing the car’s performance can you find out if it will handle well when you really need it to. You may be tempted to proceed with an abundance of caution out of fear of damaging the car, but you won’t learn as much with this approach. This is your chance to find out how quickly the vehicle accelerates and how it responds when you have to brake hard, so don’t be shy about putting the car through its paces.
With that in mind, don’t do anything illegal or make sudden maneuvers. When you’re test driving a car remember to:
Pay attention to how the dashboard is laid out and whether or not you find the vehicle controls awkward or confusing to use.
Make sure you’re able to see the road and check your mirrors and blind spots easily.
Test the wheel alignment by driving at 20 to 30 mph beside a pavement line or sidewall.
Roll down the window so you can hear if the car is making any unusual noises.
Get a rough sense of the car’s fuel efficiency by noting what the odometer and fuel gauge say at the beginning and end of the trip.
Identify whether the car responds to steering unexpectedly or seems improperly balanced when you drive.
Test any advanced systems, including rearview cameras, blind-spot monitors and voice command systems, as well as essential safety technologies such as ABS or ESC while you’re on the road.
When you’re taking a test drive, it’s a good idea to treat the salesperson as a resource. After all, he or she probably knows about the features of the car as well as anyone and would be happy to demonstrate them for you. Consider asking the salesperson to take the wheel for part of the drive so you can have time to look over the car and discuss it without it distracting you from the road.
Step 6: Negotiate
A dealership is one of the few places where you can actually pay less than the sticker price if you know how to negotiate. Unlike a meal at a restaurant, or some new shoes, the price is negotiable. Used car prices are typically more flexible, as they will not be linked to the manufacturer’s production costs. When negotiating the price, it’s especially important to have a parent or other adult around, even if you take the lead in the bargaining.
The Dos and Don’t of Car Negotiations
When discussing the price of a car with the seller, whether the car is new or used, remember these dos and don’ts:
Do come prepared with knowledge of how much comparable cars are selling for. Letting the dealer know you know there are other options out there will decrease his or her ability to frame the discussion of price.
Don’t mistake the salesperson for someone with your best interests at heart, no matter how convincing he or she is. Don’t let yourself be talked into any features you don’t need or want.
Do be prepared to bring up any concerns you have or problems you noticed during the test drive. Especially if you’re buying used, you may get the seller to discount the price by the cost of getting the issue fixed.
Don’t let your enthusiasm show or tell the dealer the maximum price you can afford. By starting low, you can make concessions to the dealer and still end up paying a reasonable price or getting extra features thrown in.
Do be prepared to walk away if you don’t think you’re getting the best deal.
If you’re buying a car from a dealer, they will most likely try to get you to agree to add-ons like an extended warranty or paint protection. In general, unless it involves actual mechanical improvements to the car, add-ons like these are designed to boost the company's profits. When negotiating, try to avoid paying extra for such features; if you do want them, you may be able to convince the dealer to throw them in for free during the negotiation process.
Filling Out the Paperwork
Once you’ve agreed on a price and any options to be added to your car, it will be time to fill out the paperwork. At this point, you may be exhausted and tempted to simply sign on the dotted line. Don’t do it!
Make sure you review the entire contract with the dealer and the adult you’re with, asking questions about anything you don’t understand or contradicts something you talked about earlier. Before you leave the lot, you’ll also want to confirm whether the dealer will take care of the initial title transfer and vehicle registration for you.
Transferring Ownership When Buying a Used Vehicle
While there will be fewer terms and conditions to review, buying a used car from a private seller can be more complicated because the process of transferring car ownership varies from state to state. Your best bet is to research rules for selling a used car in your state ahead of time so you can make sure that everything gets done properly.
Make sure the seller also hands over any papers associated with the car, including the owner’s manual, emissions test documents and inspection stickers.
Once you’ve agreed to buy the car, it’s yours. You can’t take a car back because you find a better one a few days later. And most used cars are typically sold as-is, so if a problem arises, it will be too late to do anything about it once the sale is final. That’s why it’s so important to do your research to find the best type of vehicle for the best value.
Save Some Extra Money
Did you know that many insurance provider will give you up to a 10% discount for taking defensive driving? Use that extra cash to buy car accessories, fill up your tank or stick it in saving for car emergencies, the possibilities are endless. Sign up for a defensive driving course and start saving today!
