The checklist you need when buying a new car
One of the biggest financial commitments any person will make in their lifetime is buying a car. Understandably, it is preferable to be certain that the car driven off the lot is indeed a good deal.
Ensuring that it’s fitted with certain essential features and that it offers a good return on investment would help eliminate most doubt. Here are some specifics to be on the lookout for:
Safety features
Safety features are non-negotiable. Basics included with most vehicle ranges are seatbelts, airbags, ABS brakes, traction control and electronic stability control (ESC). The latter helps the driver stay in control of the car when over or under steering, or during other extreme steering manoeuvres.
To really gauge how safe a car is, look up its Euro NCAP rating.
Alarm systems add value too, but might only be available as part of an add-on package. Before electing to go with the dealership’s offering, compare their deal against what’s available from independent dealers.
Nice-to-haves
There are certain features that add to the driving experience, but don’t necessarily come standard with all models in a range. Examples are air conditioning, trip monitors, infotainment systems, Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, adjustable steering columns, rear park assist, cruise control and rain sensor wipers.
Also read: How not to be taken for a ride when buying a new car
Look at the Chevrolet Cruze range, for instance. Essentially, the more you pay, the more you get. This is standard practice for all car makers and dealerships.
Financial considerations
Everyone knows of course that a car depreciates the minute it leaves the showroom floor, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still get a decent return on investment. Keep the following factors in mind to ensure that you get your money’s worth:
- Warranties and service plans. Warranties and service plans provide peace of mind and a means of paying for the first few services. Most warranties and services are built around a year/km model, for example a 5 year/120 000km warranty or service plan. Compare offers from different dealerships to make sure you get a good deal.
- Fuel efficiency. Petrol prices are sky high and are showing no sign of a huge decline any time soon, so ideally you want to pick a car that gives you a lot of kilometres on one litre of petrol. Your daily driving habits will of course play a role. If you walk to work, for instance, you don’t have to get a car that’s super light on petrol; you could probably afford to spend a little more on petrol on a monthly basis.
- Cost of parts and maintenance. This is something many people overlook, but it’s essential to research the cost of parts and maintenance on the model you’re considering. Some vehicle brands are notorious for being expensive to maintain, with even basic parts costing thousands.
- Insurance costs. Never forget that monthly costs on your new car won’t only be the repayments – it will also be insurance instalments. Many factors determine insurance costs, but try to ascertain how much you’ll pay on your dream car before buying it.
- Resale value. You’re obviously not planning on selling your car in a month or two, but it’s important to consider the resale value. You don’t want to buy a car that you eventually will get next to nothing for.
Source: www.reeds.co.za