When Buying a Car is Not a Good Idea
Sometimes knowing when to not buy a car is just as important as knowing when to jump on a good deal. Here are some situations where you should proceed with caution and even be willing to walk away from the deal.
Lack of Documents
The owner of the car should be willing to provide you with all the documents relating to the vehicle, especially important documents like the title. While some owners maintain meticulous service and maintenance records, most do not, so don’t let that be a deciding factor, but when the seller can’t producer the most basic documents required to complete the sale, it should be a sign that you should walk away.
Out of Your Price Range
Make sure you have a price range in mind before you ever start looking for a new car. Don’t be pressured by high-pressure sales presentations. Don’t be tempted to buy that fast and stylish sports car that’s clearly out of your budget.
If you are buying a used car in order to save money, then know your price range and stick to it.
Consider potential repairs and maintenance costs. Used cars come with a certain amount of wear and tear. Older cars or cars with more mileage may require more frequent maintenance. There may be a reason the owner is trying to sell the car. You may get a great deal on a used car, but the value quickly goes out the window if you are forced to spend a lot of money on repairs right after you buy it.
The First Time You See the Car
Let’s face it, car lots are all about instant gratification. They’re set up to get you to fall in love with a car and buy it on the spot. Sales people are trained to get you involved in the car as soon as possible. That’s why they open the door and have you sit inside. That’s why they offer test drives. Once you become involved in the car, you’re half-way to the sale.
Don’t ever buy a car after you see it for the first time. Take time to do research about the car, read reviews and ask for opinions. Order a vehicle history report. Find out everything you can about the car and come back.
Even if the sales person tells you that he’s had several people looking at that particular car and he can’t guarantee it will be there when you come back, it’s better to take time to find out more information before you complete the deal. Be willing to walk away from any car until you know more about it.
Bad Feelings after a Test Drive
If you hear or feel anything suspicious while test driving the car, you may want to reconsider the deal. You can always have the car checked out by a mechanic, but usually your instinct during the test drive will help you make up your mind. If you don’t feel comfortable driving the car, then don’t buy it.
Uncomfortable with the Sales Person
The stereotype image of a used car salesman used to be a fast talking, high-pressure, sleazy huckster wearing a bad polyester sport coat. Today’s sales people are professional and usually want the customer to feel satisfied with their purchase. Still, it’s possible to deal with people who you don’t feel comfortable with – for whatever reason. You may get a bad feeling. You may feel like they are being dishonest. You may just not like something about them. That’s OK. Trust your instinct. Ask to speak with a different sales person or go to a different dealership.
