Top tips for buying a new car
We all know that buying a new car is an exciting time, but it can be quite daunting too. Imperial Auto has taken the stress and guesswork out of making one of your biggest purchases ever, with this simple checklist. First things first, you need to establish what you are looking for in terms of budget, a new or second hand vehicle, safety, comfort, appearance, performance, reliability and purpose.
Start by browsing around the internet to get a feel for what is out there, and what the different brands and models cost, new or previously loved. However Imperial Auto warns that you should check the credibility of online dealerships or private sales as there are unscrupulous vendors who tweak the facts, particularly when it comes to selling used vehicles.
Dealership websites are great to visit prior to going to the branch to compare what’s on offer, making it possible for you to narrow down your choices so you spend less time traipsing between showrooms.
Once you are in contact with a dealer ask the following questions:
- Are there any costs excluded from the price, such as license and registration, CO2 Emission Tax or delivery charges?
- What does the standard warranty, service or maintenance plan offer in terms of mileage and years covered?
- What are the service intervals?
- What are the running costs? For example, fuel consumption and contribution to vehicle services?
If you’re buying a used car, ask about the history of that particular vehicle:
- What is the mileage and general condition of the vehicle?
- Has the vehicle previously been in an accident?
- Does it have a full service history? Were all services done via a franchise dealer to maintain the warranty?
- What is the remainder of any service, maintenance or warranty plan?
- Ask for a copy of a roadworthy certificate and the dealer quality check list
A professional sales executive will know the features of a particular vehicle insight out and take the time to not only demonstrate them to you but also invite you to experience the vehicle on the road by doing a short test drive.
There are a few things you as the customer can do to make shopping around for your dream car a more pleasurable experience. Firstly have a clear idea about your budget and don’t be shy to communicate this to the sales executive. Be upfront about whether you wish to trade-in a vehicle or not and ask the dealer to assist in obtaining a settlement value from your bank if you don’t know what it is. These clear guidelines together with your preferences regarding the vehicle’s specification and colour will equip any sales person with the necessary knowledge to tailor-make the most attractive offer based on your individual requirements.
Also make sure you have the minimum required documents, such as your ID, driver’s license and proof of home address with you so that you can get the purchase process started straight away, if you find the car of your dreams.
If the physical exercise of shopping around for cars seems like too daunting a task to fit into your busy schedule, contact the Imperial Auto Hub, a brokerage manned by independent agents, who can help you shop around for the car of your dreams that will fit your budget, whether you’re looking for a new or pre-owned SUV, sedan, hatchback or a bakkie at no cost to you.
The experts have access to more than 2500 pre-owned vehicles across all Imperial Auto franchises, including 24 new vehicle passenger brands, 13 commercial brands, and nine leisure brands. Their database includes new and used vehicles and demo models, and they can even offer advice on caravans, trailers, off-road or camping equipment.