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How to Buy a New or Used Car at the Best Price

By Gavin Aims
Nov 24, 2008
Step 1: Know exactly what you want

The most important thing when buying a new or used car is deciding exactly what type of car you need. Is it a large vehicle with plenty of room or a small fuel efficient car? Are you looking for a Dodge Caravan minivan to take the kids to soccer practice or a two-seat convertible to drive during the summer. First thing to do is define your make model class and price range.

Step 2: Do your homework

Once you know your class and price range, the thing to do is research all the features, safety ratings and as many reviews as possible. There there may be as many as 15 different cars in the class and price range you are looking for, this is why it is best to rely on existing expert sources to narrow down your choice. There are plenty of places to do in-depth research about your car, including online car esigns (online magazine) such as Car & Driver www.CarandDriver.com, TheCarMagazine www.TheCarMagazine.com, Motor Trend www.MotorTrend.com and CanadianDriver www.CanadianDriver.com. Thes manufacturer websites are listed here for your convenience. Www.Honda.com , www.Toyota.com , www.Ford.com , www.Nissanusa.com , www.BMW.com , www.Mazda.com and www.Subaru.com. For reliability rankings try www.Edmunds.com , www.JDPower.com or www.ConsumerReports.org.

Step 3: Arrange for a Test Drive

As a rule, test drive all of your prospective automobiles. While the reviews may be accurate, the only way to see if you like the vehicle is to drive it yourself. It's also good idea to take all war a few family members with you because at the end of the day they will be writing it as well. Your test drive should be at the least 25 minutes and include some time on a major highway or freeway. You'll want to see how the car reacts when passing slower drivers. Use stereo heating controls air conditioning, basically everything that you would normally use. For instance when I bought a Mazda minivan I failed to test the steering column in a lower position which my wife enjoys. What happens in this than is what is lowered for me I cannot see the speed gauges which is pretty important. Also moved the seats around and familiarize yourself with the car's features.

Step 4: Making the deal, the most important step!

Okay so you found the car, you know what you like, you've taken it for a test drive. Now it's time to make the deal. When negotiating with the seller it's very important to know your bottom line. Stick to your bottom line the seller will respect you for this injured deal will go smoothly. Many times people get emotional when making large purchases and are vulnerable to slick seasoned salespeople. The best way to protect yourself is to know your bottom line and stick to it. If you watch automobile auctions on eBay you'll see how bidding activity increases as the auction comes closer to its end. When bidding for a vehicle on eBay motors again know your price stick to that dead if you don't get it walk away.
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