MoneyBuying a car is a big purchase.  There’s a lot of money at stake.

When it comes to buying a new car, you’ll want to avoid these mistakes at all costs. 

  • Mistake 1: Don’t Shop Around For Loans: It’s very important to shop around for car loans before buying a new car.  You want to make sure that you find the best interest rate possible.  This will help ensure that you get the best deal for the vehicle. 
  • Mistake 2: Buying the First Car: Car shopping isn’t like love at first sight.  Make sure that you visit several dealerships and test-drive several vehicles.  This will help to ensure that you make the right decision when it comes to purchasing a brand new car. 
  • Mistake 3: Purchasing Based on Status: Some people get sucked into buying a car that is out of their price range because of flashy features or brand names.  It’s nice to have a great-looking car.  However, be sure to live within your means.  This will prevent problems down the road.
  • Mistake 4: Failing to Read Reviews: You don’t need to read reviews when it’s a brand new car, right?  Wrong.  It’s very important to read the reviews for new cars.  This will help to determine if there are any problems down the road.  Take the time to do some serious research on the new vehicle that you plan on purchasing.
  • Mistake 5: Passing on the Test Drive: If you’re going to be driving this vehicle for several years, you’ll want to make sure it’s the right fit.  Skipping on the test drive could lead to regrets down the road.  So be sure to take the vehicle out for a quick spin before purchasing it.
  • Mistake 6: Focusing on the Sticker Price: If you want to get a good deal on a vehicle, you need to figure out how much the dealer paid for the car.  Oftentimes, you can figure it out by subtracting all the dealer incentives.  You’ll get a better value if you focus on the true value of the vehicle.

Avoiding these mistakes will help you find the right vehicle at the right price.  If you purchase a Toyota, be sure to use genuine Toyota parts to keep it on the road longer.