Auto Shopping Guide
Car Buying Tips & Auto Shopping Hints

Save time, money, and aggravation by planning your next automobile investment carefully. Choosing the right car, truck, or SUV (sport utility vehicle) is easy when you follow the valuable automotive shopping suggestions found below.

Step 1 : Choosing Your Next Vehicle

Think about how you are going to use your vehicle. Will it be a commuter vehicle? Will you be hauling children? Do you need the additional cargo space of a van, or pickup truck? Does your location require a front-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicle? Think about what is practical for your use and requirements. Ask around. Most people will speak openly and frankly about their vehicles. Think about your previous vehicle. Remember what you liked, (and more importantly) did not like about it.

Step 2: Determine How Much You Can Spend

Don't over-extend yourself on your vehicle purchase. Be realistic in determining how much you can spend and how you are going to pay for it. For most people, the purchase of a new automobile is the first or second largest investment of their entire life. The total cost of a new vehicle that is financed is a substantial sum, so be sure to shop around for the lowest interest rate if you are financing.

Step 3: Financing Your New Vehicle

Shop around for your auto loan in advance and you will probably save money. Auto loan rates can vary substantially. Some banks offer very attractive auto loans with even lower rates for existing customers, or for automatic payment withdrawal. Automobile manufacturers also often run "limited time" offers for lower interest payments of selected models. Don't rely on your local auto dealer to provide you with all the information. These manufacturer offers change often (usually monthly) and many dealers are not aware of the current promotions in place. Check the automobile manufacturers web site for current model and financing information options yourself. For a list of automobile manufacturer web sites, click here.

Step 4: Researching Your New Vehicle

Do a little homework to avoid unpleasant surprises. Become familiar with the vehicle your have chosen by visiting the auto makers web site. Talk to friends or relatives that have a similar model and ask questions, surf the web for information. The U. S. Government agency NHTSA maintains detailed records of vehicle recalls and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs). TSBs let dealerships know how to fix unforeseen manufacturing problems with a particular model of car or truck. Automotive magazines are an excellent source of information and vehicle reviews. Motor Trend, Car Week, Auto Enthusiast, and Car and Driver, are just a few.

Step 5: Finding Your Next Car or Truck

Shopping for a new vehicle can be both time-consuming and frustrating but it does not have to be. Auto shopping can be fun and informative. Deal with reputable auto dealers and solicit their help in locating the perfect vehicle for you. Use your friends and relatives for input in helping you determine what dealers are reputable in your area. If you are determined to find a bargain by dealing with a private owner or purchasing a repossessed or seized vehicle, be sure to keep in mind the potential associated risks. Repo vehicles have often been abused, warranties are quite limited (if available at all), and the vehicle's history may be difficult to track. Private sales can sometimes save you some money, but seldom will any warranty be offered. Be sure you ask to see the vehicle's service records. A poorly maintained vehicle is often headed for trouble and expensive repairs.

Online auto shopping is becoming more popular. Some excellent auto shopping sites include: Auto-By-Tel, AutoWeb, Green Light, and DriveOff. You can find links to these and other automotive shopping websites by visiting the Automotive Section of Free World Mall.

Step 6: Test Driving and Inspecting Your New Vehicle

So, you have finally located a vehicle of interest. Great!! Now, it's time for a test drive. Suggestion: If you are not mechanically inclined, take along a knowledgeable friend or relative. Here are few (obvious and not-so obvious) questions to ask about the vehicle.

Does the vehicle have a current registration and tags?
Has the vehicle passed current emissions requirements?
Does the vehicle have a "clear title"? Is the vehicle ready for transfer or does it have any liens against it? Verify that the title is in the name of the seller. A vehicle with a "branded" title stipulates that the vehicle was totaled (salvage) or a "lemon" (buy back).
Ask where the vehicle was purchased and why the owner is selling. Ask if the car was ever in a collision, and ask to see the vehicle's repair and service records. Ask if any modifications were ever made to the unit and why.
Try to inspect and take delivery of your new vehicle in broad daylight and on a dry day. Variations in parts fitting and paint colors (signs of collision work) are much more noticeable in the daylight. Use a magnet to detect areas of excessive body filler if you suspect the automobile has had body work.
Bring a flashlight along to inspect dark areas under the hood, under the dash, and under the vehicle itself. Check the condition of accessory belts, hoses, wiring harnesses, fuse box, CV joints, tires and rims, and check the vehicle's fluid levels. When checking the fluids, look for discoloration or fine particles in the fluid. A vehicle's fluids can often reveal problems that the owner may be unaware of.
Turn the ignition partially on to check the vehicles warning lights. Do the engine temperature, oil, and battery charge warning lights all work properly? Start the engine. How does the vehicle idle? Is it smooth?
Visually inspect the vehicle's interior. Sit in ALL of the seats. You will get a different perspective and notice different things about the vehicle by sitting in the passenger seat and the rear seats, as well as the drivers seat. Try all the interior features: turn on the heater, air conditioner, stereo, all power accessories, turn signals, brake lights, and emergency brake.
Turn the radio off and put the car in gear. Listen carefully for strange rumbling or noises. How does the motor sound? Is the vehicle idling smoothly? Shut off the vehicle and start it again.
Drive the car (or truck) forward a few yards and stop. Check the ground where the vehicle was parked for signs of fluid leaks. Are there any spots on the ground that look like leaking oil, transmission fluid, or fuel? No. Great!!
Now, take a good look at the vehicle's exhaust. If someone is with you, have them step on the gas pedal lightly while you look closely at the exhaust pipe. Check the color of the exhaust, it should be gray or none at all. Blue or heavy black exhaust is NOT a good sign. The exhaust pipe should not be spitting oil or excessive water. Now get back in the car, adjust your seat, mirrors and accessories and go for a drive!
When test driving a vehicle pay attention to how the vehicle "feels", "responds", and "sounds". This is not the time to play with the radio or sound system. This is the time to carefully listen for signs of trouble. How does the engine rev? Is the transmission shifting smoothly? Listen for noises when accelerating, coasting, decelerating, or stopping. Try all the gears and test the overdrive. Drive on a straight pavement, let your hands off the steering wheel briefly. Is the car tracking in a straight line? A vehicle that pulls sharply to the right or the left when you take your hands off the steering wheel, can be signs of an under inflated tire or a much more serious problem.
In a safe area, drive the car and stomp on the brake to test for fade or noise. Make a couple of tight, 360 degree turns in each direction. Again, listen carefully for noises or vibrations. Try parallel parking the vehicle. How does it feel? Are you comfortable? Are all the lights and equipment still working properly? Great!!
Now return the vehicle, but do not shut off the engine. Get out of the car and, with the engine idling, open the hood. Now listen, look, and sniff. Listen for unusual sounds, look for signs of trouble (leaking fuel, etc.), sniff for odors like burning fuel oil, or rubber. Be careful, keep your hands and clothing away from moving parts! Get back in the car and check the instrument panel lights again. Is the car overheating? Is the idle still smooth and quiet? Shut the car off. Check the vehicle's fluid levels again.

Step 7: Closing the Deal

If you are still seriously interested in the vehicle, ask if you can take it to your mechanic for a thorough inspection. Let your mechanic know you are considering buying the vehicle and ask for a thorough test and a report of needed repairs (if any), and the costs involved.
Don't be afraid to say no. If you are unsure about the vehicle, delay your decision. Finding the right car, truck, mini-van, or SUV can take time. Paying for your new vehicle can often take much more time, so be sure you really want the vehicle before you commit.

Summary:

Don't let a pushy automobile salesmen pressure you into a decision you may live to regret. It's your money and it's your comfort and safety at stake.

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