This is a common question when it comes to buying a car – or anything, as far as that goes. As I have written in past articles, the first thing is to do your research on the car of your choice. Because, let’s face it, does it really make any kind of a difference on the “deal” if the car is a piece of junk? Look up industry reviews and awards. Some of them are accolades like:
- Kelly Blue Books 5 Year cost to own awards
- IHS Markit, showing how many of that brand are on the road after 10 years
- IntelliChoice, best overall value
- IntelliChoice, Lowest ownership cost
- American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) for owner Satisfaction
- Kelly Blue Books Brand image awards
- JD Powers Brand Loyalty Award
Look up your current car and see how many of these awards your car holds. When we purchase a car, we should be concerned about what kind of safety, resale value and cost-to-own record, among other important studies.
Something else to consider is the dealership from which you are buying. I think that in our day of technology, we could always find a better deal if we shop long enough. The local dealership cares more about you. They not only want to sell you a car, but they want to do continued service on your car. The local dealer is an advocate for you when it comes to getting help from the manufacturer. The local dealer can support you in loaner cars or shuttle service. Not to mention that the money you spend goes to support other local charities and organizations.
If you don’t feel comfortable with the price you were quoted, shop around. Compare the price to other dealers. Beware of a dealer that just wants to give you a lowball price only to hit you with additional fees later when you pick up your car. A good thing to do is get a quote in writing with all included fees, what you have heard called an “out the door price”.
Be sure to shop your trade-in also if you wish. There are plenty of people who will buy your car straight from you. In today’s used car market, used cars are hard to find enough of. Anyone would be glad to give you an offer on your trade in. Then you can decide if you are getting enough for your trade. Beware: if you are not trading it in, you will not get a tax credit savings. You would have to get more out of your trade to make up for the loss of the sales tax savings. Make sure you calculate this first.
As stated in other articles, look for trusted dealers, the ones that have great reviews. Dealing with someone you trust can save hours of time. He or she can go over your wants and needs to make sure you are buying the right car that meets your lifestyle. For this reason, we have chosen to have noncommissioned consultants. That way, they are not focused on the money. They focus on putting you in the right car that is best for you, not us. We are looking for the long relationship, a relationship of trust and loyalty that will last though many generations to come. QCBN
As always, if I can ever answer any questions, please contact me at my info below.
Sincerely, Dave “Mac” Macfarlane, General Manager.
Findlay Subaru Prescott 3230 Willow Creek Rd Prescott, AZ 86305 928-771-6900 dmacfarlane@findlayauto.com
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