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I remember buying my first car. I was unsure of a lot of things, and though it was adequate, it really wasn’t the perfect car for me. Since that time,  I’ve  learned a lot which made negotiating for and buying my next car, which was perfect for me, so much easier.

Here are Some Tips I’ve Learned:

Do Your Research:

Like any important investment, don’t rush into it. There are so many wonderful resources out there to help you make an informed decision. I love Cars.com They have a very helpful Videos and Reviews section with clear and honest information. You can also find the skinny on local dealerships and what your current car is worth.

Online research helps put you in control. In the past, consumers relied heavily on the visit to the dealer to learn more about a car. Today, with online sources and mobile phones putting so much information at our fingertips, you can feel educated and confident before you ever set foot in a dealership.

Knowledge is power.

Another quick tip: A great idea to get some cash to put towards your new vehicle is selling your old or damaged car online.

Take a Test Drive:

Before you buy any car, make sure to take it on a test drive, long enough to really get a feel for it. Make sure you are comfortable. Try all the controls, adjust the seats. If you have children, bring them along on the test drive. If you are buying a used car, get it checked over by a trusted mechanic. You don’t want to be stuck with someone’s hidden problems.

Don’t Make An Impulse Decision

Although it is tempting to buy immediately, take time to research the make, model and style of the vehicle, review insurance rates and financing and, if possible, get a second opinion. You may want all the add-ons, but, some, like a portable GPS unit or stereo system, can be purchased much cheaper online and at a better quality than a built-in one.

Know When To Shop for a New Car

Weekdays are better than busy weekends. The end of the month is better than mid-month as salesmen may be trying to squeeze in a few more sales for monthly totals. The end of December is a good time as people are focusing on Christmas and the dealerships aren’t very busy, motivating them to give you a good price to help with year end sales records. Another good time to buy is July-October when dealerships are clearing space for the new models.

Don’t be in a hurry. Don’t rush into it. Ultimately, the best time to buy a new car is before you need one.