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Buying Your First Car

Congratulations and welcome to the freedom and independence a car can bring to your life! This is a very exciting time for many first-time car buyers, but it also can be a daunting learning experience for those who don't take the time to research what they are buying.

Take some time to make sure your first purchase is your most successful.

Purchasing a New Car?

When it comes to purchasing a new car, it is important to be aware of different options and possible problems. As a "new car" is generally expensive, take the time to look over the following checklist when purchasing the automobile:

• Decide which car you are in love with! Factor in comfort, handling, colour, and how the vehicle parks
• Browse the Internet to compare prices
• Set realistic budget goals - Don't try to make your budget fit your car! Don't forget about the cost of gas and insurance
• What will be your method of payment? Full payment, financing, bank loan etc.
• Pick one car and go back to various car dealerships to compare prices
• Test drive (approximately 10-15 minutes) all cars you are considering buying
• Grab a piece of paper and write the "pros" and "cons" of each car you drove
• When you arrive at the dealership - remember not to act to impulsively! Be ready to work with the car dealership to make sure you get the best price possible!

Purchasing a Used Car?

Don't want to break the bank but still need a way to get around town? A used vehicle can be a successful purchase as long as you take the time to research and prepare for the unexpected. In addition to the list above, a used car buyer should also consider:

• Set your viewing time during the day when the light is good. If it is dull out you may not be able to see the car's faults.
• Review all documents very carefully. This includes the log book (V5), Mot certificate, and any paperwork for repairs. If you are not confident to review these documents yourself, ask a knowledgeable acquaintance or car repairer.
• Request an independent inspection - these are usually available through your motoring organization.
• Request an HPI check which will ensure that this vehicle has not been stolen, written off, or cloned.

Worried that you won't be able to do it alone? Even if you are not a car-genius, you can still evaluate your potential vehicle with confidence.

1) Look for Rust. Check in the hard-to-see places such as under the car and on the brake lines. Although rust is a common car problem it can cause weakened metal - press on the rusted area firmly or tap it with a blunt object to ensure that the metal is still strong.

2) Check the Engine. Start the engine and listen to it run. It is a bad sign if blue smoke comes from the exhaust, the oil light stays on for a long time, the engine revs itself, or if the exhaust misfires.

3) Look the car over. Check the odometer not only for the mileage, but to ensure that the numbers are in line and haven't been tampered with. Ensure that there are not any weld marks in the car to signal a car that has been joined together from several parts.

4) Take a test drive. During your drive try the car on a hill, make a few quick stops, and see how it handles on a curvy road. Drive it in the conditions that it may experience in the future with you to ensure that the car won't breakdown.

Remember - if you still have doubts or concerns at this stage it is better to walk away from the vehicle and look for something else.