Do your research.
Check out the Consumer Used Car Rating Guide or Consumer Reports.
Be aware.
Know what to look for to avoid buying a lemon or paying too much. Check out the Kelly Blue Book.
Don’t rush.
Don’t let a salesperson rush you into a car you don’t want. On the other hand, don’t rush into buying a car that isn’t what you really want or need.
Manage your money.
Remember that there are more factors to purchasing a car than just the sale price.
Establish your credit.
You may need a credit history to get the financing to buy a car. You can have your parents cosign the loan with you.
Ask for help.
Ask friends, family, teachers for help in closing the deal. Get the help of a mechanic to evaluate any used car you are considering.
Everyone remembers their first car and the excitement and freedom that comes with a new set of car keys. Whether it’s new or used, buying your first car can be one of the most exciting and overwhelming experiences of your life. The truth is that most teenagers pay more for their car, financing and insurance than anyone else.
While most car salespeople are trustworthy, some recognize first-time car buyers as targets for higher prices because of age and inexperience negotiating large purchases. To prevent this from happening to you, when shopping for your first car, never reveal too much information to the salesperson when discussing your wants and needs. To get a better deal, try to appear indecisive or uninterested in the car, and if the seller refuses to lower the price, you can always walk away from the deal. To prevent being told false or exaggerated information by salespeople, do research before stepping foot onto a car lot. From checking the Kelly Blue Book for price ranges based on the car’s condition to talking to people who already own the type of car you want, there are many resources on your side to ensure your car isn’t a dud.
You don’t have to spend a fortune to get a stylish, reliable car. However, be wary if the car’s price is too good to be true. In most cases, cheap cars are junk cars. To prevent purchasing a junk car, stay away from less reputable dealers and if you’re unsure of the car’s quality, hire an inspector to check the car before you buy. Finally, never buy a vehicle without first checking the cost of insurance. Rates depend on many things, from where you live, how many miles you drive annually to your school GPA.
Research is the key when shopping for your first car. Armed with information about the car, negotiating the deal and insurance costs, you’re sure to make your first car purchase a success.
