Buying a used car can always be a bit overwhelming. You need a new a car and for whatever reason, whether you can’t afford it or simply don’t like the new models, have entered the market in search for the perfect match. There are quite a few things you need to remember no matter where you are when it comes to selecting a new car.
First, it is a good idea to stay within a three-year range, if possible, unless of course you are interested in a more classic model. The average car owner puts somewhere in the range of 20,000 miles on a car per year, so you want to make sure that, for example, you aren’t buying a four-year-old model that has 150k miles on it!
Second, you should probably have some idea of what you want. Even if you don’t know the exact model, try to narrow down some of the specs before you get to a dealership. You may want a four-cylinder or a six-cylinder, a hybrid or a diesel, a sedan or a coupe, front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive – there are many things to determine. If you are one of those people that just have to see it to know it’s the right fit, go for it but beware.
Once you know what kind of car you are looking for in general, it’s time to hit the dealerships. There are a few tips within this section that are crucial to getting a good deal. Don’t take your car with you if you want to trade it in right at first. You don’t want the dealer making any kind of stereotypical judgment about your purchasing power. Maintain a good poker face. If you find exactly what makes your heart jump wait – you will get a better deal if you leave and go back the next day. In the meantime, you can do the final steps of research that are recommended before taking the keys.
Third, put in the effort of research. It will pay off in the long run. If you have a trade-in, make sure you know what your car is worth in your market. Research financing rates; borrow from a bank, not a “buy here, pay here” dealership. Check the depreciation rates on the car you are interested in. One of the worst things you can do is go out in December and buy a car, because as soon as the clock strikes twelve on December 31st, your the price will drop. You never want to make a bad decision by paying so much for a car that has such a quick depreciation that you end up owing more than the car is worth at any given time.
Finally, it’s time to return to the dealership. At first, don’t let the salesman know you are there to buy. Take a mechanic with you to give the car a once-over and make sure there are no issues. Request a car fact report and inquire about the history of the car, if it is known. If a dealer is not willing to provide this information, chances are you are getting a lemon.
As the automotive industry explodes in the UAE, keep up with the most popular cars. As of 2013, they are: Toyota, Honda, some Nissans. Other than that, have fun with it!
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