Buying a car is a personal decision, requiring a careful evaluation of factors including price, lifestyle, safety, used or new, and how long you plan to keep it. Honestly assessing your needs and budget will help to decide which car is best for you.
Price
There is a great range in prices of new and used cars. Honestly evaluating your ability to maintain car payments for up to three to five years is important when selecting a car. Costs above the price of the vehicle must also be taken into account. Although a new car will cost more than a used one, new cars need fewer repairs and may get better gas mileage, thus reducing maintenance and operating costs.
Insurance rates vary according to the make, model and age of the vehicle. Loan terms for new cars often require costly insurance policies while the loan is being repaid. Higher rates of coverage may substantially increase monthly expenses.
Lifestyle
Requirements for a single person may be very different than for a family and children. A compact car may adequately meet the needs of a single person. A family car, however, must comfortably accommodate several passengers, as well as provide easy access for loading people and goods. A four-door car provides ease in loading backseat passengers and items to be transported. A hatchback provides ease in loading, but may reduce back seat space.
How much and how far do you drive on a daily or weekly basis? Hours of expressway driving may result in the decision to include accessories such seats with settings for back support, GPS systems, better sound systems, and so forth. Quick trips around town may not require the same comfort requirements; maneuverability and ease of parking may be more important. Fuel efficiency may be of importance; the fuel consumption of the vehicle may affect your decision to buy.
New or Used
Is a new or used car preferred? Used cars may be less expensive, but may also come with repair problems. To avoid buying a used car with hidden defects, have it inspected by a mechanic or repair shop. The professional should examine tires, engine wear, chassis and body, brakes, transmission, steering, air conditioning and heating for wear, to ensure that systems are working, and to assess whether there are signs of collision. Ask if the owner has maintenance records. Make sure that the title is clear and transferable.
The Kelley Blue Book is the industry standard for pricing used cars. It provides a reasonable guide for both seller and buyer to evaluate the asking and purchase price of a used car. MSN Autos: Used Car Pre-Purchase Checklist provides a checklist for evaluating a used car, plus several helpful sections with information about both used and new cars.
Consumer Reports, a non-profit organization, provides independent evaluations of consumer products. Its section on cars is extensive, discussing new and used cars, most reliable cars and car accessories. Consumer Reports, provides information on crash tests, fuel efficiency, insurance and safety features.
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