Buyer's guide to SCORING A STEAL

Be wary of the pitfalls and potholes to avoid when buying a new car

- Elise Elliott WhichCar, Mark Brook.

DO BARGAIN

Visit a number of different car yards and ask each for their best deal. Some might give you a low-interest rate when it comes to financing, but they won’t budge on the price of the car. Others will negotiate with you on price, but be inflexible on any trade-in.

Don’t be afraid to ask for optional extras to be thrown in – would you like a sunroof, upgraded safety features or the colour of your choice included?

TAKE A FRIEND

Drag along your partner – this is a family team decision after all. And don’t be afraid to take the pram and car seats to the test drives. There’s no use getting the new family wagon home, only to discover the baby carriage doesn’t fit. Alternatively, take a friend. They can provide a detached assessment of the car and will not be easily wooed by over-zealous car dealers.

TEST-DRIVE COMPETITORS ON THE SAME DAY