Buying: Finding the Perfect Car for You
by Kevin Schappell
Your car may be the second largest purchase you make in your lifetime. You must take your time and not let it become a strictly emotional decision. Before you go out browsing dealer lots consider the following.
- How will I use my new car, truck or SUV? A mini-van will fit fine in a large family but might be out of place in a singles life. Do you go off-road allot but still like to carry more than 2 passengers, go for the SUV. Trucks have come along way, most comforts available in today's truck rival luxury cars but do you really need that to carry construction equipment to the job site? If you do not go off-road, don't buy a 4x4 truck. The extra weight will only decrease gas mileage and increase maintenance costs. Afraid of the snow? Look to the variety of AWD vehicles on the market which provide excellent traction in the snow and also more economical operation. Take a serious look at your life and find the vehicle which most compliments that lifestyle.
- Color choices. This is a personal preference but rational can come into play. In warmer climates a lighter colored car will stay cooler. Certain cars are easier to keep clean also. White and black are the worst to keep clean. Tan, silver, and brown hide dirt quite well.
- Interior options. Do you need the heated seats? Well that depends on where you live and how much winter driving you do. Leather seats can be unbearable in the summer months and generally harder to maintain. Do you listen to allot of music? The premium sound system might be a great idea but if you only listen to talk radio then the base system will be more than enough.
- Insurance rates. Take into consideration the insurance rates before you start you car buying quest. That Honda maybe allot cheaper to insure than the Ferrari which caught your eye last week. Talk with your insurance agent to find out what is considered a sports car, which usually raises your premiums.
I hope the few comments and suggestions above have given you something to think about. Also check out Car Talk's Car-O-Scope out to see if your current vehicle matches your personality. This could give you some insight into your new purchase or maybe just a good laugh.
Good Luck,
Kevin Schappell
Kevin maintains http://www.autoeducation.com where he gives advice on car maintenance, buying, selling, insurance, and financing. A mechanical engineer and car guy, Kevin has decided to spend his online time helping others learn about automobiles.
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