5 things you need to do before buying a car in 2022

Thinking of buying a car? Buying a car is both an exciting and stressful situation, but if you don’t prepare, you could risk overpaying or making the wrong buying decision. Before you consider buying a car there are a few things that you need to minimise your risk of buying a lemon.

Here are 5 things you need to do before buying a car in 2022.

1. Research the cars you are interested in

Research is the most important part of the car buying process. Many Australians fail to research enough information about the car they want to buy prior to going through with the purchase. Those who don’t do enough research often find themselves overpaying or making the wrong buying decision.

Before you consider buying a car, make sure you properly research everything about the vehicle you are interested in. See what prices similar vehicles are selling for and figure out if you are going to buy from a dealership or privately.

Some of the essential information that you should research include:

• Make and Model
• Fuel Efficiency
• Kilometres on the car
• Prices that similar cars are selling for
• If the car is part of any Safety Recalls
• ANCAP Safety Rating
• Reviews of the Vehicle
• Vehicle Features

Having the most knowledge will minimise your risk of overpaying or making a wrong buying choice.

Related Article: What Car Safety Features to Look for in Your Next Vehicle.

2. Get pre-approval

Before you start looking for a car to buy it is always a good idea to get pre-approved for Car Finance. Pre-approval for a car loan is when a lender agrees to give you a loan for the car you want to buy. A lender will base your lending capacity on your earning amount, past borrowing experiences, current loans, and other financial circumstances.

There are many benefits to getting pre-approved for a car loan.

• Let’s you know your budget limitations
• Speeds up the buying process
• It’s valid for 3 – 6 months
• It’s completely free

Related article: 5 tips for getting a car loan.

3. Car History & PPSR Check

Arguably the most important part of the car buying process is the check process. If you are looking to buy a used car it is essential that you get a Car History and PPSR Check.

A Car History and PPSR check gives you all background information about the used car. Key information includes if there is any finance remaining on the vehicle, stolen/written off status, if anything has been replaced or if it is part of a recall.

Related Article: How to get a free car history check in NSW.

4. Third-Party Vehicle Inspection

To further limit your chances of buying a lemon, it is highly recommended that you have a third-party mechanic check the vehicles engine and overall condition.

A third-party mechanic check is the best way to understand the vehicles current condition. A mechanic will quickly point out any faults or immediate works that need to be performed. Getting a third-party mechanic to assess the car you are looking to buy may cost you some money, but it can also save you thousands in future service and maintenance costs.

Related Article: Buying a Used Car Checklist & Things to Check.

5. Test Drive

This may be a no brainer but it’s so important. You may find you love everything about the car and everything on paper adds up but when you get to drive it may not feel right.

Make sure you take the car on a few test drives, seek feedback to those who are close to you. Remember you’re the one that needs to drive it every day, so you want to be 100% sure that it feels right.

Final Word,

Buying a car is an exciting and stressful process. To minimise your risk of making a wrong buying choice you need to prepare yourself as best as possible. Conduct research, learn everything about the car, see if you can get pre-approved and undertake the necessary checks. Performing the 5 things mentioned above will put you in a strong position throughout your car purchasing process.

We hope you enjoyed reading this article. To read more articles like this, please visit the Shop for Cars latest news page here.

About Shop for Cars,

Shop for Cars is Australia’s first car dealership-only online classified. Shop for Cars brings you the best quality new and used vehicles from trusted motor dealers Australia wide. Shop for Cars currently has over 12,500 cars listed for sale all from licensed Motor Vehicle Dealers ONLY.

Click here to begin your search.

DISCLAIMER: This is based on opinion. Please research and consult with all relevant parties to make the best buying decision.