Navigating Your First Car Purchase: 20 Tips for First Time Buyers
Posted on March 25, 2021
Buying your first car might be thrilling but it can also be challenging. First-time buyers face obstacles, from understanding the process to handling common issues. Choosing between new and used, picking the right type or brand, and deciding on leasing or financing can be complex for first-time car buyers.
If you’re a first-time car buyer, this post is for you. Here, we’ll discuss essential tips for first-time car buyers, how to overcome challenges and secure the best deal for the car you want.
What Should You Consider When Buying a Car for the First Time?
Let’s explore essential considerations to empower you to decide on your first car purchase.
1. Deciding Between a New or Used Car
Typically, used cars come with a lower price tag attributed to depreciation, making a one-year-old vehicle up to 20% more cost-effective. This is an attractive option for those on a tight budget. However, remember that financing for used cars can be trickier as they are considered riskier.
2. Conducting Test Drives and Car Inspections
Before buying a car, it's a good idea to inspect and test drive it and also to check the vehicle history report to see if there were any past accidents or damage.
3. Negotiating Your Car Deal
When negotiating, research the average selling price beforehand. Consider the purchase price and your down payment, loan term, and interest rate, especially if you're taking out a loan.
4. Securing Insurance for Your First Vehicle
Insuring your first car is a must in Canada.
Types include:
- liability
- accident benefits
- property damage
- uninsured coverage
Research insurers and consult a licensed broker for the best choice.
5. Understanding Your Financials and Credit
Prior to your inaugural car purchase, ensure your financial house is in order. Acquiring your first car is a significant financial undertaking, demanding preparation for all associated costs beyond the mere purchase price.
6. Establishing an Appropriate Budget
When setting your budget, aim for a 10-20% down payment to ease monthly expenses. Don't exceed 10% of your monthly income on transportation. For longer commutes, consider fuel-efficient options or explore multimodal commuting to manage costs effectively.
7. Exploring the Vehicles of Interest
Explore the cars that pique your interest through online research. Utilize the vast resources on the Internet, including reviews. Additionally, seek recommendations from friends and family to gain insights into recommended makes and models.
8. Thoroughly Examining the Car's Condition
Carefully check both the interior and exterior of the car. Inspect the paint for any chips or dings, open the hood and trunk for a closer look, and test all accessories and instruments to ensure they function properly.
9. Choosing Between Cash Purchase or Financing
Choose between purchasing or financing your car. With options like leasing, loaning, and buying, financing through a loan allows immediate car ownership.
While a loan is convenient for those lacking substantial savings, it often involves interest, ultimately leading to a higher overall cost than an upfront payment.
10. Defining the Desired Car Type
Once your budget and financing are in order, start your research. For first-time buyers, picking the right car type can be challenging.
To simplify, consider:
- Purpose of the vehicle
- Passenger capacity
- Location
- Fuel efficiency and budget
Also, check safety features, manufacturer recalls, and common accidents related to your chosen make and model.
First Time Buyer's Guide to Vehicle Purchase
If you're a recent immigrant in Ontario and considering your first car purchase, there are essential aspects to understand:
- No Credit: Acquiring a lease or loan might be challenging with little to no credit history.
- Insurance Requirement: All Ontario drivers must have a valid insurance policy.
- Driver's License: If you had a license in your home country, you may be eligible for an exchange or credit based on your experience.
These factors are crucial for your car-buying journey in Ontario. Learn more about their impact in our comprehensive guide for new Canadian car buyers.
Guide to Purchasing Your New Car
Ensure a smooth process from budgeting to ownership registration by learning the steps for both new and used cars.
Buying a New Vehicle in Ontario
Purchasing a new vehicle in Ontario involves several straightforward steps:
- Set Your Budget: Determine your financial limits.
- Research Ideal Vehicles: Explore and compare different models.
- Inspection and Test Drive: Evaluate your chosen vehicle firsthand.
- Finalize Purchase and Paperwork: Complete the transaction and necessary paperwork.
- Get Car Insurance: Ensure your new car is covered.
- Register Ownership: Officially register your ownership.
For a comprehensive guide to buying a new car in Ontario, explore our detailed resource here.
Buying a Used Vehicle in Ontario
While the process of buying used cars mirrors that of new ones, there are key distinctions:
- Payment Options: Leasing is rare for used cars, but is possible with some vehicles. Ask the dealer if it's an option.
- Pricing: Seller-set prices, not manufacturer-defined.
- Condition: Assess the vehicle's history and current state.
- Sources of Inventory: Private sellers, auctions, and dealerships.
- Documents: Specific documents for purchasing and registering a used vehicle.
Explore the detailed aspects of purchasing a used car in Ontario in our comprehensive guide available here.
20 Tips for First-Time Car Buyer in Canada
Explore these 20 crucial car buying tips designed specifically for first-time car buyers to confidently navigate the process and make well-informed decisions.
1. Evaluate the Choice Between a New or Used Vehicle
New cars provide convenience, customization, and a factory warranty, often with easier financing. Used cars are cost-effective due to depreciation and lower insurance, but finding desired features requires thorough searching.
Private purchases need a mechanic's inspection, while pre-owned vehicles purchased from a dealer offer some guarantees. This varies from one dealer to another, so ensure you know what is or isn't covered.
2. Purchase a Car Based on Your Actual Needs
Larger vehicles often come with higher costs, increased fuel consumption, and challenges in parking. Assess if you genuinely require a three-row SUV or a full-size truck for regular use or if a more compact option would suffice, with occasional delivery services for larger items.
3. Engage in In-depth Research on the Vehicles You're Considering
Explore expert reviews, videos, reliability surveys, and used-car reviews to assess how well each model performs over time. However, exercise caution with websites offering a vehicle's "invoice cost," as such information may be inaccurate, and these sites might share your contact details with dealerships.
4. Distinguish Necessary Features from Desirable Ones
While it's tempting to choose luxurious add-ons, weigh the costs and potential future expenses.
Consider aspects like:
- larger wheels
- powerful engines
- specialty features
Consider both long-term costs, such as replacing pricey components, and the resale value of features like heated seats or advanced connectivity.
5. Seek Advice from Friends and Family for Car Recommendations
Persistent issues from the beginning are unlikely to improve over time. Inquire about preferred dealers and salespeople, leveraging their experiences to connect with reputable contacts and receive guidance on avoiding less trustworthy ones.
6. Conduct a Comprehensive Test Drive Experience
If possible, take the vehicle on both urban streets and highways to assess its power for merging and passing. It may depend on the dealer's proximity to a highway, but it might be possible. Evaluate maneuverability by testing tight turns and parking in various scenarios.
Drive during both daytime and nighttime to gauge visibility. Confirm a comfortable seating position, considering visibility and seatbelt comfort.
7. Familiarize Yourself with Your Credit Score
Determine your borrowing capacity and, prior to visiting the dealership, explore pre-approved loan options from your bank. This allows you to compare rates and payments with dealer financing, enabling you to choose the most advantageous option for your situation.
8. Understand Long-Term Loans for Car Purchases
Taking out an extra long-term loan can mean the difference of getting your dream or not. However, do keep in mind that while the monthly payments will be lower, you'll end up paying more in interest and finance charges over the whole term of the vehicle.
9. Identify Opportunities for Discounts and Rebates
Explore potential discounts and rebates offered by manufacturers or dealers, which may include specialized incentives for certain groups like recent graduates or healthcare workers. These discounts might not always be prominently advertised, so proactive inquiry is crucial.
10. Negotiate Applicable Fees in the Car-Buying Process
While sales taxes, "green" fees like air conditioning tax and tire stewardship fees, and freight/destination charges are typically non-negotiable, there may be room for discussion on other costs. It doesn't hurt to ask.
11. Comprehend the Ins and Outs of Warranties
While every new vehicle comes with a factory warranty, the option to buy an additional extended warranty may arise. This is not obligatory and declining it won't impact on your factory warranty. However, exercise caution if considering it. Clearly define the coverage, exclusions, and any deductible in writing.
12. Analyze the Total Cost of Ownership
A higher-priced car tends to incur more expensive insurance premiums and fuel costs, especially if it requires premium-grade fuel. Luxury or performance vehicles often come with pricier wear items like brakes.
13. Evaluate Dealer vs. Private Seller
Dealerships may be pricier, but they often provide warranties, detailed reports, add-ons, and flexible payment plans. On the other hand, private sellers may offer a cheaper deal, but they typically don't provide warranties or guarantees with the purchase.
14. Explore Different Options for Car Insurance
Exploring car insurance options is crucial, as insurance costs can significantly influence your decision between different vehicles. Factors such as your location, insurance history, driving record, and the chosen car all contribute to determining your insurance rate.
15. Evaluate the Present and Future Value of the Chosen Vehicle
Utilize resources like the Canadian Black Book (CBB) for insights into the average asking price, trade-in value, and projected depreciation over a one- to five-year period. This valuation tool helps you gauge potential future costs and make informed decisions about the vehicle's financial outlook.
16. Exercise Caution Against Unscrupulous Sellers (Curbsiders)
Typically avoiding fixed addresses, they rush sales, and their offerings may require significant repairs or have manipulated odometers.
Be cautious of repeated ads with a single phone number, ensure alignment between the driver's ID and ownership name, and insist on obtaining a Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP) for verification.
17. Know the Vehicle's History Before Finalizing the Purchase
Gain insight into the vehicle's background by requesting essential documents such as the UVIP and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). A comprehensive CarProof or Carfax report delivers crucial information, including accident history, lien details, and past registrations, providing a comprehensive overview of the vehicle's history.
18. Prepare a List of Additional Inquiries
Before finalizing your car purchase, compile a list of extra questions to pose to the seller.
Consider inquiries such as:
- What type of gasoline does the car require?
- Are stereo and climate controls in working order?
- Is there an existing warranty, and if yes, what specific components does it cover?
Being thorough with your questions ensures a comprehensive understanding of the vehicle's condition and terms of sale.
19. Look for a Second Opinion Before Planning
Prepare additional questions by seeking a second opinion through a pre-purchase inspection conducted by a reputable mechanic. This step can potentially save you money in the long run by uncovering any hidden issues or potential problems with the vehicle.
20. Document the Transaction with a Paper Trail
Prioritize obtaining written documentation for all conditions, payment terms, disclosures, and commitments related to the transaction. Take the time to thoroughly review any contracts, as they become binding once signed.
Being diligent in securing written agreements will help safeguard your interests and provide clarity on the terms of the deal.
Gear Up for Your First Car Purchase with CarHub
If you’re ready to buy or want to learn everything that you need to know about buying a car for the first time, you can book an appointment with a CarHub Product Advisor today.