ALT-1 Tips for Buying your first Car
What do you look for when contemplating the purchase of your first car. Should I purchase a new car or a used car? How much money should I spend and if it is used how much should I earmark for repairs to get it into good condition so it is dependable for a number of years? What colors do you like, should the interior be vinyl or should i spring for the leather?These are some of the questions you should ask yourself before you even consider the purchase of your first automobile.
When I was a boy of seventeen and attempting to purchase my first car the 1974 Maverick was a whopping $1995 brand new and the 1967 Pontiac Tempest I ended up buying used was $795.00.I entered the car dealership with my checkbook and not a lot of knowledge. What I ended up getting was a lesson on buying a used car. The week after I bought the car I noticed that it needed to be inspected. Why didn't I notice the inspection sticker when I purchased it? I guess it was the excitement of buying my first car. After replacing the brakes, the muffler and two wheel cylinders I was back on the road. The repairs cost $400.00 so I had spent close to $1200.00 for a car that was seven years old. A friend had purchased a Maverick and while my car spent half of that summer in the shop he had no problems for the next couple of years.
The lesson to be learned is one of knowing what it is you are buying when you decide to get your first automobile. Most first car buyers are youngsters so I suggest taking someone with you who has more experience like an older brother or a parent. Have a mechanic check out the car if it is used or buy one that comes with a warranty. Most dealerships offer certified used cars but your corner used car lots still require that you do your own personal inspections of the auto prior to purchasing. This may be tough for the young buyer as the excitement of a major purchase and being independent is important but getting a fair deal is utmost in importance. Today there are "lemon laws" to help protect the buyer but buying your first car is still one of the toughest decisions you will make as a young adult.
A new car dealer may offer incentives and money back, extended warranty and a plethora of options that the first time buyer may not be aware of. Don't be afraid to ask a lot of questions and again find someone who is knowledgeable in the area and ask them to accompany you on your quest. Follow a couple of these suggestions and you should have a good experience and be happy with your car purchase decision.
