FIRST TIME CAR BUYERS - 5 tips to consider before you buy... So, you think you're ready to buy your first car? Need some info on new cars, used cars, finance options, makes, models, etc? Read on to find out all you need to know to get yourself on the road. A car is probably the second most expensive purchase you'll make in your lifetime, so it's important to know what you're getting. If you are buying a used car, especially if you are doing it privately, there are a few things you need to do before you make the deal.
- Arrange Finance - Unless you are paying cash, it's important to get your finances and budget sorted before you go shopping. Will your car loan be approved? Once you get the car, can you afford the repayments and can you afford to keep it on the road? These questions need to be answered before you even start looking. When buying through a dealership, they will help you sort out your finances on site. You can call Sydney City Mitsubishi for friendly, helpful advice on a financial package to suit you.
- When buying privately and you see a car you like, you should get a background check, to make sure the car hasn't been stolen and have it independently valued so you can be assured you aren't being charged more than the market value. (Call REVS on 133 220) This is only necessary when buying privately. Dealerships will have taken care of this already. It's a good idea to do a check on the make of the car, to see if there have ever been any manufacturers recalls. Check the car is registered and roadworthy. Most car dealerships will offer a three month warranty but you won't be guaranteed this when buying privately. Check which insurer the CTP policy is with and make sure it's up-to-date. If the car is registered in another state, you will have to get it re-registered for NSW. For help with this, you can call the RTA on 132 213. Again, this is only necessary when buying privately.
- When you inspect the car, try to do it in bright light. Check the body of the car for rust or damage to the body work; paintwork or cracked, chipped glass is expensive to replace. Check that the wear on the tyres is even - if it isn't, this is a sign that there may be a problem with the suspension or the alignment, which will need to be fixed to ensure your car handles correctly and that tyres do not wear out prematurely. Also, don't forget to check the condition of the spare tyre. When the engine is idling, listen for any irregular running or any rattling noises. These could indicate incorrect tuning or excessive wear. Gear changes should be smooth and the steering wheel should not vibrate.
- Test Drive - before you take the car for a spin, talk to the owner about your liability if you have an accident. If you damage the car on the test drive, you could end up paying for a car you don't even own along with anything else you damage. However this won't be a problem when test-driving at a dealership. A copy of your license is all that is needed to cover you completely on your test drive.
- Before you drive away make sure you get the service book, owners manual, log book and all the keys for the car. And maybe ask for a lesson on how to work the alarm - especially how to de-activate it!
"Each car from Sydney City Mitsubishi has been checked thoroughly by our expert mechanics so you know you'll be getting a great deal on a great car."
** If you encounter problems with the car after you've purchased it, you'll probably be on your own if you buy it privately. For your peace of mind, Sydney City Mitsubishi offers a full 120 point safety check on every used car we sell AND a 3 month/5000km warranty.
Buying your first car can be both exciting and a bit daunting, but if you do some research and arm yourself with information, you'll enter into the process knowing what you want and how to get it.
Contact Sydney City Mitsubishi today for a great deal on a USED CAR!
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