MyCarQuote.info

Advice from a former salesman who worked at a major car dealership...There are many do's and don'ts when shopping around for a new or used vehicle.  Any time you walk onto a car lot dress casual, don't wear elaborate clothes or jewelry.  And, let the salesperson do the talking, and don't volunteer any information.  When possible, look at the internet before you actually walk onto the lot for your research.  When you find something you are interested in, run it through CARFAX.  And, when you actually go to the car dealership, go when the dealership is closed to actually look at the vehicle for the first time to avoid a lot of pressure about buying until you are as sure as you can be of your selection. 

  NEW Vehicles

• Look for the color 'white' because you could get a better deal on it. One thing to keep in mind, if you choose a color that is flashy and easily spotted, say on the interstate, your insurance could be at a higher rate.

• Check out the actual mileage on the vehicle - yes, this is true for new and used vehicles - could possibly get an additional discount due to mileage
  
• Make sure everything works.
• Ask about lifetime oil changes and tires (always read the small print for extra fees or other stipulations that may apply)
  
• Ask about any incentives or rebates. 
  
• Always ask how much off sticker or cash price and then negotiate.
• Never let them take you into the finance office because more than likely, they will try their best to strong arm you (pressure you into buying).  It's best to get your own financing.
  
• Nowadays, be extra careful about finding out what type of warranty options are available because all new vehicles don't come with a warranty.
  
• Never lease a vehicle except in cases of leasing through a business and have a tax advantage otherwise with a lease, you WILL come out losing.
• If you are young and inexperienced (male or female) take an experienced person with you who knows autos.
  

  USED Vehicles:

• Never look at the vehicle at night or when it is raining when ready to buy.
• Always check mileage
• Always check wear on the brake pedal - if worn could be sign of high mileage
• Check fenders & door gaps to see if it has been wrecked
• Check floorboards to see if carpet is wet
• Check trunk for evidence of damage, being wet, etc.
• Run your hand down body lines for imperfections - could have improper body damage repair
• Feel of paint for bubbles or imperfections - could be sign of rust especially on a vinyl top
• Check under the hood:  look at coolant to see if it looks fresh/take off oil filler cap & see if it smokes when the engine is running - if it smokes, rings are worn & compression is coming in through the head which is a sign of a lot of wear/look at the oil filler cap to see if it's caked up - if it is, the vehicle probably hasn't been maintained well/check transmission fluid on stick to see if it is red & clear which is good
  
• Start the engine and look behind to see if it smokes - if it does, could be valves gone bad or rings worn which is bad news.
• Make sure the title of vehicle is clear not salvaged, rebuilt or water title - these last three are hard to get financed.
• Before purchasing a used vehicle, let an independent mechanic put it up on a rack and check it out which could cost $25; however, that is $25 dollars well spent
• Never pay an individual for a vehicle without getting the title right then or at least a bill of sale or some type of paperwork stating the car is paid for