7 Essential Car Buying Tips

Buying a new or used vehicle can be a stressful experience, but it doesn’t have to be. There are steps you can take to make the buying process easier and less nerve-wracking. Here are seven quick tips from our experts at Connexus to help you cruise through the buying process like a pro.

Determine Your Budget

Before you start searching for vehicles, you should crunch some numbers and know what kind of monthly payment you can afford. To help determine your budget, try our easy-to-use Auto Loan Payment Calculator.

Know Whether You’re Looking for New or Used

This decision is based on several factors: your budget, depreciation, how long you need the vehicle, etc. This Car and Driver article helps walk you through the pros and cons of buying new or used.

Narrow Your Choices

Before you get your financing and before you go to the dealer, do your research online. You probably have an idea of what style of vehicle you want (car, truck, van, etc.). Read reviews, look at prices, and narrow down the options.

Secure Your Financing Before You Go to the Dealer

This step gives you more control when you’re at the dealership. When you already know the loan details you’re qualified for, you can compare them to what’s offered at the dealership. It also puts you in the driver’s seat when negotiating price. Read more about the benefits of getting financing ahead of time.

Research All Possible Discounts

At its most basic level, car shopping is just like any other kind of shopping. Before you make a purchase, shop around, look for discounts, and find sales. It could save you a lot of money.

Test-Drive All Your Options

Once you’ve narrowed down your options based on the features and prices, you should test-drive them. You want to get a feel for the vehicle’s comfort, usability, and how it handles.

Take Your Time

One of the most important steps is to go at your own pace. You may be pressured into making a quick decision, but you shouldn’t sign anything until you’re comfortable making a purchase. It’s your decision, so take the time you need to make the purchase that’s right for you.

Remember, buying a new or used vehicle doesn’t need to be difficult. Follow these seven tips, and you’ll be behind the wheel of a new ride in no time.

Check out our Auto Loans page to learn more about how we can help simplify the process and to schedule a chat with one of our auto lending experts.