Investing in a new car can be exciting, but it can also be an overwhelming process. You want to make sure that you are getting a good deal, that you find something that you will love, and of course, that the vehicle is safe. You will spend countless hours on the roads, so buying a car – whether brand new or used – is a big investment. Finding a safe car can also help prevent accidents, injuries, and unpleasant run-ins with the law. Here, I will discuss three tips to help you find the right car for you.

Tip #1: Research Cars Before Buying

Doing adequate research can give you peace of mind that you have chosen the right vehicle. Consider important factors in what you are looking for in a car. Ask yourself questions such as:

• How much space do I need?
• Do I live in a climate where all-wheel drive would be useful?
• What car brands have I liked in the past?
• What is my budget?
• What safety features are most important to me?
• Should I lease or own the car?
• What is the purpose of this vehicle? For example, are you mostly using it to shuttle yourself to and from work, is it a car for road trips, will you be driving kids frequently, etc.
• Do I want a new or used car?
• Can I trade in my current car?

Tip #2: Get a Better Understanding of Finances

One of the biggest factors in buying a car is price. But, there are several factors to consider when it comes to finances. First, it is important to set your budget and make sure that you can afford the car. Make sure that you can afford both what you put down when you purchase the car, as well as the payments. Consider:

• Your overall budget.
• How much you can afford to put down when you buy.
• How much you can afford on monthly payments.
• Interest rates offered.
• Pre-financing options.
• Your credit score.
• If you want to lease or own.
• If you are trading in your current car, and an estimate of the trade in value.
• Factor in your car insurance costs.
• Search for deals/sales that dealerships have.

Tip #3: Talk to a Mechanic

This is especially true if you are buying a used car, but it can be helpful even if you are buying new. A new car should last you for a while, but talking to a mechanic about different makes and models can be informative. A mechanic can give you more information about the vehicles that you are looking at. For example, they might be able to tell you about gas mileage for the vehicles, which makes and models are durable and last a while, and which tend to have parts break quickly.

Of course, it is essential to have a mechanic check out a used vehicle before you make a final decision about purchasing.

Finally, remember that there is no rush! If you need to think about your decision, sleep on it. You need to be confident in this decision, so take as much time as you need.