Heading to a car dealership to purchase a new vehicle can be an exciting yet stressful experience. With high-pressure sales tactics, negotiations, and major financial decisions, it’s important to be prepared beforehand so you can feel confident and avoid disappointments. Doing your research ahead of time and having a plan can help make your dealership visit a smooth, successful one.
Research Different Dealerships And SalesPeople
Before deciding on a specific dealership, do some research on dealerships in your area to find one with a good reputation for fair prices, quality vehicles, and excellent customer service. Look at online reviews and talk to friends and family about their dealership experiences. Once you’ve selected a dealership, try to find a salesperson with positive reviews from previous customers. Knowing you’re working with a trustworthy dealership and salesperson will provide peace of mind. A reputable Chevy dealer in Phoenix can make the car-buying experience much smoother.
Determine Your Budget
Knowing your budget and what you can realistically afford in terms of monthly payments is key before stepping foot in a dealership. Get pre-approved for an auto loan from your bank or credit union so you know what rate and monthly payment works for your budget. Having financing already secured gives you negotiating leverage and avoids getting swayed by the dealership’s financing offers.
Research Prices
Spend time researching the fair market prices for the specific make and model you want so you’ll recognize a good deal. Check websites like Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds to find the MSRP, invoice price, and average paid price for your desired vehicle. Seeing what other people in your area paid for the same vehicle will help you determine a reasonable offer. This research will also help you avoid overpaying at the dealership.
Know The Features You Want
Make a list of the features, packages, and options you want in your new car, with your must-haves and nice-to-haves distinguished. This will help the salesperson direct you to vehicles that fit your needs and desires without going way above your budget on unnecessary add-ons. Prioritize safety and convenience features over flashy upgrades that inflate the price. Discuss these wants with the salesperson but also be flexible if needed.
Prepare Documents
Gather all the documents you’ll need before heading to the dealership so you don’t panic trying to locate them at the last minute. This includes your driver’s license, proof of insurance, vehicle registration if you’re trading in, and a copy of your credit report. Bring a calculator, pen, and paper for calculating payments. Having all paperwork ready demonstrates you’re an informed buyer.
Do Test Drives In Advance
If possible, schedule test drives of your desired vehicles at the dealership in advance. This allows you to get a feel for the car before purchase. Take it on the freeway, neighborhood streets, drive over bumps – get a thorough sense of the handling, acceleration, comfort, and features. If you love the test drive, it may motivate you to secure the best deal. If you’re unsure, at least you know before making a commitment.
Calculate Total Owning Costs
Look beyond just the sale price and monthly payment – also research ownership costs like insurance, estimated fuel costs, expected maintenance, and repairs. Get quotes on insurance for the specific vehicle and model you want. See what premium gas costs for sports cars requiring it. Knowing the total estimated cost to own a vehicle over the next several years helps determine affordability.