6 Areas to Research When Choosing Between Vehicles to Buy

Choosing a new vehicle to buy can be intimidating for a number of reasons, but it doesn’t have to be. Knowing the right questions to ask, doing proper research, and learning about what options will best suit you, both now and in the future, are going to be the best options for successfully navigating your next car dealership.

1. Budget

Sorting out your budget is going to be one of the first steps you need to take when looking at both new and used vehicles. Consider if you want to buy outright or finance. If financing is what suits your budget, have a range in mind of how much you are able to afford each month. This will make sure you don’t put yourself in a bind later on.

2. Seating

The amount of seating you need is going to be a very individualized situation. Perhaps you are able to manage with something small that only fits four people tops. Or, if children are in your present (or future) you’ll need to look at something that can seat a few more, with plenty of room for car seats, etc.

3. Cargo

On the specifics of seating, you should look at what type of cargo capacity you need. Is something with the bare minimum trunk space going to suffice or are you going to need folding seats that will allow you room for sports gear or camping supplies? Additionally, do you need a rooftop cargo rack or a hitch to be able to haul a trailer or camper?

4. Gas Mileage

I don’t know about you, but I don’t know anyone who can afford to NOT look at gas mileage options on a new vehicle purchase. You not only want to look at the gas mileage but make sure you check the options that pertain most to you. For example, are you an adventurer who is going to be putting in a lot of highway miles? Or are you someone who prefers to keep things local and needs a better city mileage? Lastly, does the TYPE of fuel matter to you? Options such as flex-fuel versus the more common unleaded are things to consider.

5. Safety Features

You might think safety features are a given in any car you decide to buy, but that isn’t necessarily the case. Make sure you take time to look into crash test ratings, airbag systems, and stability control. If you are buying a used car, then it is especially important to review that specific vehicle’s collision history. It’s never a bad idea to have a mechanic take a look at whichever car you decide to purchase, as they will be able to help you spot issues that are more than just normal wear and tear.

6. Must-Haves

This is where car shopping becomes fun. Weigh your options on different features and amenities. Decide if you want sliding doors on a minivan, a remote start, heated seats, etc. You can also consider options like color, interior design, GPS systems, and backup cameras.