Looks ain’t everything
How do I choose the best car for me? 12 tips worth remembering
When committing to a large expenditure, such as a car, it is always important to pay attention to a few details to ensure that you are getting the most out of your money. Even if you are not a mechanic or an experienced driver, certain tips can help you make a better decision and avoid possible scams and hidden issues. Do you know these 12?
Image: Annie Spratt
1
Preapproved loan
Getting a preapproved loan before going to a car dealer is a good way to be sure of how much money one can spend, and it can also reveal any possible credit issues that were not clearly visible.
Image: Alexander Mils
2
Safety first
It goes without saying; safety is always a top priority when buying your new car. When looking at models, go for vehicles with a high safety rating and features like airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and electronic stability control (ESC).
Image: Alexandria Gilliott
3
Driving habits
What kind of driving you will do should influence what kind of car you will buy . If you do a lot of city driving with stop-and-go traffic, a fuel-efficient car like a hybrid or electric vehicle could save you significant money on petrol in the long run. Do you need a large vehicle for cargo or passengers, or is a smaller, more agile car for local errands and weekend adventures?
Image: why kei
4
Cargo space
And, since we are on the subject of driving habits, cargo space is a crucial feature of whichever car you decide to buy. How much space do you really need? Even if you only need a lot of space a couple of times a year, you will want to have that space when the time comes, so don’t neglect this aspect.
Image: Andraz Lazic
5
Mileage and vehicle age
A simple rule to consider when buying a used car is the average mileage a car is supposed to have, relative to its age. That average is 10,000 to 12,000 miles per year . If the car you're looking at has a lower average annual mileage than that, it could be considered a good mileage.
Image: Wesley Tingey
6
Outside look
A quick inspection on the outside is advisable . Check the body for imperfections like gaps, dents, or discolored paint, inspect the windows for chips and cracks, get under the vehicle, and check the wheel wells and underbody for rust, which could lead to future problems.
Image: Parker Gibbs
7
Test drive
When buying a used car, it is always important to take it for a test drive, even if you don’t have a lot of mechanical knowledge. Pay attention to odd sounds or noises coming from the engine, brakes, or transmission . Test the AC and ensure that it cools quickly. Test the electronics, brake lights, headlights, windshield wipers, and see if the tires are not too worn off. And if you see or hear something that you are not sure about, check with a mechanic before buying.
Image: Mira Kireeva
8
Check for water damage
Water damage can be a real problem for the interior, the engine, and the electrical system . Pull back the carpets in the footwells and check for moisture or signs of water damage. There are many flood-damaged cars on the market, and most of the time, the signs are concealed.
Image: Caspian Dahlström
9
Try all the seats
Try out all the seats, even if you probably won’t sit in the rear . Upholstery shouldn’t be ripped or badly worn, particularly in a car with low mileage. Try all the seat adjustments to make sure that they work properly and that you can find a good driving position.
Image: Wade Lambert
10
Service records and possible crashes
The past history of a used car can predict future issues . Has it been in a crash? If yes, ask about the extent of the damage and who did the work. Does the car have service records? A good, used car has been well cared for. It should have had maintenance done at the manufacturer-specified intervals.
Image: Usman Malik
11
Keep it simple
Avoid buying add-ons, extended warranties, or very long car loans , since those usually have higher interest rates and a much higher interest component is paid in the first years than the actual loan.
Image: Erik Mclean
12
Resale value
Research the resale value of any used car you are interested in buying . The resale value can affect the overall cost of ownership and the financial return on your investment.
By researching its resale value, popularity, demand, and potential for retaining its value over time, you can decide whether to proceed with the purchase.
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