9 Tips For Buying A New Car

Which Car motoring expert Elise Elliott shares all the info you need to know

- Elise Elliott

Like many people, I’m guilty of spending a great deal of time researching the right pair of jeans or shoes to buy. But when it comes to buying a car – one of life’s biggest assets – many of us don’t know where or how to start.

KNOW WHAT YOU WANT

What kind of car do you want and need? Narrow down to a few brands and models. Is it a school drop-off SUV or an off-roader for weekend adventures? Do you really need to invest in a seven-seater if you only have a couple of kids? Do you require a hardcore 4WD if you never intend to go off-road?

DO YOUR HOMEWORK

This is a massive asset you’re buying: research, read reviews, and watch videos. A site like WhichCar provides heaps of reviews and car comparisons, which are useful if you’re torn between two brands.

BARGAIN

Visit different car yards and ask each for their best deal. Some might give you a low-interest rate when it comes to financing but won’t budge on the price. Others will negotiate with you on price, but be inflexible on any trade-in. On this note, avoid trading in your old car. You may get a good deal on your new car but a tough one on the trade-in, or vice-versa.

TIMING IS EVERYTHING