Buying a car requires research

Don’t just run out and buy a car; do some research before you go. That way you can find something that’s affordable and reliable. The last thing you want to do is spend a bunch of money on a vehicle that turns out to be a lemon.

More below.

Buying a car isn’t something you do on a whim; take your time

We have previously covered the idea that you should financially prepare for buying a car. That makes sense; you want to make sure you pay as little as possible and obtain the best and most affordable financing. After all, why pay more than you have to? But there is more to buying a car than just lining up the financing and making sure that your credit score is adequate for the task at hand. You also want to make sure that you buy the right car, and that you don’t get stuck with something you don’t want, something you don’t need, or the worst of all possible worlds - the auto lemon.

So before you hop into the jalopy to go buy another car at Al’s Autorama, we suggest that you do a bit of research in order to try to eliminate potential problems beforehand.

Here are a few tips that might help you make the right decision when buying a car:

Pricing - You may do well to buy a car at the end of a model year, or one of last year’s models just after the new ones are introduced. Dealers want to clear out old inventory, so you may find a bargain if you are willing to settle for last year’s model. You will also benefit from some pricing information; you can obtain some pricing information through Consumer Reports. Come other companies, such as insurance giant USAA, can negotiate prices for their customers.

Reliability - Consumer Reports puts out an annual auto issue each April; this issue discusses virtually every new and used car available in America. They will offer tips on pricing, performance and anticipated reliability. Look for models that have a good past history of being reliable as well as those that have good anticipated future reliability.

Used cars - if you are shopping for a used car, you might check with the folks at Kelly Blue Book. They can provide good pricing information on used vehicles.

Intangibles - Carfax can provide information about the title and history of used cars. If you want to know if a car has flood damage from Hurricane Katrina or if it has previously been wrecked, you can find that information here.

Certification - Some manufacturers offer “certified” used cars, which come with an inspection and a warranty. You will pay more for one of these, but they should offer greater reliability than a non-certified car. You will also have additional recourse should something go wrong. Be aware that not all certified used cars are alike and that their have been some problems with certified used cars. Be sure the warranty comes from the manufacturer and not the dealer.

By doing your financial homework and your general research into make, model, safety and reliability, you should be in good shape to buy a car that is not only affordable, but one that should permit you to drive it for years with relatively few problems. And after all, that’s what you want, isn’t it?

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