What Questions Should I Ask at the Car Dealership?
Making any big purchase can be nerve-racking, let alone buying a car! It’s very important to do your research beforehand and know exactly what kind of vehicle you want to buy before heading to the dealership.
However, before you sign any papers, here are some questions you’ll want to ask.
What are the common repairs on this make and model?
This is a very important question to ask as it may help you to decide if the vehicle is right for you. Your dealer should have no problem answering questions about what repairs you’ll most likely have to get done. It’s also important to research online and see what other people with this vehicle are experience in terms of repairs.
If you’re buying a used vehicle, the dealer should be able to give you documentation on the repair history. Make sure you take notes of what repairs were done to it the most as this can prepare you for what to expect.
What does the warranty cover?
It’s important to understand the warranty as they vary depending on the maker and the vehicle. Most basic warranties cover the mechanical and electrical components, basically any part of the vehicle that was made in the factory.
However, it’s important to make sure that parts like the stereo system are included in the warranty as well. This will help you avoid any unexpected cost down the road.
What added features does the vehicle come with?
Though most upgrades on a vehicle does affect the pricing, if the dealer knows that you’re interested in added features, they might be able to cut you a deal, or they may tell you about features you didn’t know the vehicle already comes with.
Has the vehicle been used as a demo car?
It’s not uncommon for demo cars to be sold, especially if there is a shortage of that specific vehicle. Although the cars that are on show are usually well kept, it is possible that they may suffer from interior/exterior damage or even worst mechanical issues.
If the dealer is selling you a demo car, you should not be paying for the price of a new car, asking this question could save you money.
What are the finance options for this specific vehicle?
The average buyer can’t afford to pay off a vehicle in its entirely. Make sure you research what finance option is best for you. It’s important to head to your bank to get an understanding of their financing terms, which will help you can compare their option to the deal being offered by the manufacturer.
What added fees should I expect?
Most new car buyers will be surprised that there’s additional costs that come with buying a vehicle. Not only will you be paying for the vehicle itself, but you should expect to pay additional fees for documentation, sales tax, registry cost and a tire recycling fee. However, there are some additional fees that might be questionable, so it’s very important to ask your dealer about these additional fees to make sure they are legitimate.
What’s the miles on the car?
If you’re a new car buyer, you would probably think that if you’re buying a brand-new vehicle that it shouldn’t have a lot of miles on the odometer. However, there are some cases where the car has been test-driven quite a bit, or it might be a trade in — meaning the dealer has traded the vehicle in for another. If the dealer tells you that the car has 300 miles or more, you should definitely negotiate a lower price.
Can I take it for a test drive?
Lastly, it’s important to take the vehicle out for a spin – I mean, this could be your new whip for the next couple of years. It’s important to get a feel for a vehicle before you even consider buying it.
Ask yourself: Are the seats comfortable? How well does it drive? If you have a family, is there enough space? And is this the perfect vehicle to fit your lifestyle?