10 Questions to Ask Before Buying a New Car
What Is the Safety Rating?
The safety rating is one of the most important aspects of vehicle buying. While we all want a car that we’re comfortable in, the safety rating matters a huge deal too. Knowing that you’re driving a car with a great safety rating will help you and your family feel more secure.
Is There a Warranty?
Most new cars come with a warranty. However, asking directly if a warranty is included is important, especially for smaller dealers. Car companies offer a basic warranty, usually for three years or 36,000 miles. However, a dealer may offer an additional warranty that can compliment the one offered by the car manufacturer.
What Does the Warranty Cover?
Asking what the warranty covers can be a deciding factor in purchasing a car. Most new cars are engineered very well, but sometimes things can go wrong. Most basic warranties last three years and cover all aspects of the car including engine and transmission. Some manufacturers have lifetime warranties for rust or paint problems.
What Is the Gas Mileage?
If you’re a commuter, gas mileage can make a difference of a few hundred dollars a year. While some are looking for a truck or SUV and aren’t concerned as much about gas, asking this question can give you valuable insights, especially if you are a commuter.
Do You Offer Leasing?
Paying cash out of pocket for a new car is a big purchase. Luckily, some dealers offer leasing. Leasing is where you pay a monthly fee to drive the car but have to turn it in after three years. You can also get the option to buy it then at a discounted rate.
Is This the Best Price You Can Offer?
Never forget to ask this question when negotiating the price of a new car. Even if the salesman only cuts a few hundred off the final price of the car, that’s a few hundred dollars you get to keep in your bank account. Just asking this simple question can save you money.
Are There Any Extra Fees?
Some dealers can be a bit sneaky with extra fees. Don’t get caught up in this. By asking if there are extra fees in the purchase you can be better prepared for the closing sale. These extra fees can also be used as a negotiation tactic and you can attempt to get the overall price reduced.
Did This Vehicle Suffer Any Damage?
Sure, a new vehicle should actually be new, but still be sure to ask this question. The car might have been used as a demo car or could have been damaged in transport or during a test drive. Ask this question and be sure that if it was damaged, it was fixed correctly.
Do You Include Free Maintenance?
Some dealers are offering this great perk with new vehicles. Free maintenance at the dealership can mean oil changes, tire balancing and tire rotations. It can also include several fluid changes and checkups. See if the dealer you’re buying from offers a perk like free maintenance as this would save you additional money.
What’s the Total Cost After Fees, Taxes and Licensing?
The price you see on a car is never the price you pay in the end. Additional fees are added on like taxes and state license fees. Some dealers may also charge a dealer fee. Be sure to ask the total price to see if this car is one you can afford. Asking the total can also help with negotiation.