Five questions to ask before getting your next car
Before you buy a car, do you really need one? Can you afford it? Do you feel confident in your car buying abilities? These are all question you should be asking yourself before you buy your next car.
No matter if you’re buying a car for the first time or you’ve bought cars a hundred times over, our guide below can help simplify the car buying process! So, in order to get the car you want check out our top five question to ask yourself before you buy a car.
1) Do I need a car?
The first question you should ask yourself is if you really need a new car. If you’re current car is on its last legs then yes, you probably do need a new car, but some of us are just chasing the attractiveness of a new car.
The reason you’re looking for a new car can also affect the buying journey and help you to decide what you need from your next car. For example, you may be wanting more space for a growing family, or you’ve changed jobs, and you need something with better MPG. Whatever your reasons for needing a new car, always assess what you need from your next car first.
2) Can I afford a new car?
Car buying is one of the biggest purchases you will make. Whether you’re buying with cash or finance, you will need to assess your financial situation first. A car finance eligibility checker can help you to see if you’re likely to be approved for finance and checks your affordability for you.
Your budget for a car should be realistic and affordable, selling yourself short each month or buying above your means will only lead to more financial problems. You’ll also need to keep in mind the running costs of owning a car too, things like car insurance, road tax, MOT & servicing, and fuel will also need to be factored into your budget too.
3) Do I want to own the car?
Drivers are spoilt for choice when it comes to car funding options. When you buy a car with cash, you’ll own the car and its yours to keep. When you take out a finance deal, there can be a few options when it comes to owning a car. Secured car finance can be both Hire Purchase and Personal Contract Purchase deals. This means the loan is secured against the vehicle, so you won’t own it until the end of the deal and the criteria is met.
Drivers who want to change their car more regular are often attracted to PCP car finance deals because the ownership of the car lies with the lender during the agreement. A personal loan is when a bank agrees to lend you money and it gets deposited into your bank account.
This type of finance allows you to own the car outright because you’ve bought it with ‘cash’ and then pay the lender back. Keep in mind, you’ll need to pass a finance check before you can get a loan though.
4) Will the car fit my lifestyle?
It’s really important the car you buy is fit for purpose and does the job it’s supposed to. Before you start shopping for cars it can be a good idea to have a list of your needs and requirements. Different areas to touch on are things like fuel type, space and seating options, child seat compatibility, boot space, economy and safety features.
Think about how you use your car and how often. Things like your mileage and the types of roads you drive on regularly can help you to determine the best fuel type.
5) Do I feel confident in my car purchase?
Buying a car can be a daunting process and even worse if you’re unsure of what you’re buying. If you don’t feel confident in the car purchase, you’re about to make, it can be a sign it’s not right for you. If you are feeling a little nervous you could consider buying a car from a reputable dealership, rather than a private seller.
Buying from a dealer gives you more protection, should there be a fault with the car or it was as advertised. It also gives you time to ask as many questions as possible you’d like and help you make an informed decision.
