While the economy is still slow the automakers are offering special incentives to tempt us to buy a new car. Very low interest rates and discounts are being offered to get us to spend and help with the re-growth of the economy, but buying a new car is an important decision. Whatever car you choose, buying a new car is a major step, and you should take time to make the right decision. Here are a few tips to help you with that decision.
1) Start by making a list of the essential features that you need, and then make a list of the features you would like. By having a list already prepared, it will be much easier to make a decision when it comes to choosing between two cars you like.
Thinking about an SUV? Although it is great to drive a larger vehicle with plenty of metal around you and a high seating position that gives you a commanding view of the road, there are some downsides to these vehicles. They have greater stopping distances, higher costs to maintain and low miles per gallon - and no excuses for not going to work when it snows!
Is an alarm system on your list of features? Recently we have had several customers come in with intermittent starting problems that we have traced to faulty alarm systems installed after the car was built. In many cases, the companies who made or installed the alarm were out of business. Since we had no way to repair them, we had to remove them. If you buy a new car and you want to add a special alarm system, buy the system made for the car by the manufacturer.
And what about undercoating? I don't think extra undercoating is a good investment. Most new cars come with great body protection warranties. One popular national undercoating company requires you to have yearly inspections to keep the warranty in place. Miss one and the warranty is void! We have one customer who faithfully took her Chevy Nova for inspection for 16 years. Then this year, we found rust under the car -- and when she took it back to them, they came out with a lame excuse about a drain plug had not been removed to let out water in the chassis. Definitely not her money's worth!
2) Read consumer reports and other non-manufacturer associated magazines and websites that provide information about the vehicle you are interested in. They can provide you with an objective perspective on the car you're considering.
Is a hybrid car on your list? More and more people have started to ask what hybrid to buy. Check out gogreencarcare.com for more information on buying a hybrid.
3) Visit different dealerships and test drive different models so you can accurately compare features. You are the only one who knows exactly what "feels" right to you.
4) Talk to people who have the same model vehicle that you are considering buying, and find out what their experiences have been. This can help to uncover some things you might not have thought about.
5) And, lastly talk to a good independent auto service repair facility. If you live near Howard County or work in Howard County call us for our opinion. Independent repair shops service hundreds of vehicles every month, and that means they see first hand which makes and models are more reliable, with less repeat problems. Tell them what you are considering and they should give you an honest opinion
Whatever vehicle you end up buying, remember that anyone can maintain it. In fact, it is a good idea to have someone independent look after your new vehicle during the warranty period. Using an independent shop will NOT invalidate your warranty. Independent shops will keep an eagle eye out for possible warranty concerns. Manufacturers typically allow only half the retail repair time to fix problems that are brought in under warranty? That's right - no wonder it can be so frustrating to get warranty repairs done! The dealer technicians have no incentive to point out warranty problems. As most dealers pay technicians for the hours they produce, they are getting half pay for warranty jobs.
Getting a new car is exciting! If that's coming up for you, Congratulations! And remember that you can keep it looking and running like new for many years to come with regular check-ups and preventive maintenance at British American Auto Care the best auto service in Howard County.
It's true that anyone can maintain any vehicle, but it's a wise idea to find a car with a reputation for durability. New vehicle dealers don't have to worry so much about that; their buyers will probably sell the cars at some point. Used car dealers have to worry about mileage and durability. willstoyota.com
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