The Dos & Don’ts of Buying Your First Car

*Collaborative Post

Planning on buying your first car? There is no purchase in life more exciting than this, as having your own car opens up an entirely new world and sense of freedom. It is also a huge financial and lifestyle decision to make, so you need to take your time to find the right vehicle. This post will look at a few of the key areas to focus on to help you find a suitable first vehicle.

Set a Realistic Budget & Know the True Cost

First, you need to work out how much you can realistically afford to spend. You need to consider the purchase price but also the running costs, which include fuel, insurance, tax, and maintenance.

Paying cash up front can save money on interest, but it could limit your options. This is why car finance is a great option for many – this will help you spread the cost and make it more manageable. Be cautious, though, as the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is reviewing cases of mis-sold car finance agreements, so make sure you fully understand the terms before signing anything.

Choose the Right Car for Your Needs, Not Just Your Wants

You might want a flashy sports car, but you need to pick a vehicle that is a good match for your lifestyle. Consider what kind of journeys you will be using it for (commuting, weekend drives, family use, etc.), size, fuel type, and whether new or used is best for you. For first-time buyers, used cars make more sense as they are cheaper to buy and run, and you are likely going to upgrade in a few years.

Inspect Carefully, Check History, & Avoid Common Traps

Common mistakes to avoid include not doing proper checks, buying on impulse, ignoring service/history records, skipping test drives, and falling for high-pressure deals. Therefore, be sure to take your time, inspect the vehicle carefully, take it for a test drive, and get a history check carried out.

Finance, Insurance, & After-Purchase Care

If you are opting for finance, be sure to compare your options. Bad credit car finance is available for those with a bad credit rating, but make sure you understand the terms and can afford repayments. It is also smart to compare insurance quotes – insurance can be expensive for new drivers. Finally, be sure to plan ahead for maintenance, road tax, and fuel.

Hopefully, the advice in this post will help you find the perfect first car that will introduce you to the world of driving and help you join the roads with confidence.

*This is a collaborative post. For further information please refer to my disclosure page.

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