How to Buy a New Car

If you’re searching for that perfect new car to elevate your Daphne travels, you’re about to embark on an exciting new adventure. If you’ve had poor dealership experiences in the past, you may not feel as excited about shopping for a new car as you should. Luckily, Southern Chevrolet, Inc. is here to help you learn how to buy a new car, so you can shop like a seasoned professional. In our guide, you’ll learn how and when to buy a new car so you can have confidence at any negotiating table. Read on below to get the car shopping tips you need!

When to Buy a New Car

Since investing in a vehicle can be quite a hefty financial decision, knowing when to buy a new car is crucial. Consider the following points to see if you’re truly ready for that automotive upgrade:

1. If you’re constantly paying for expensive repairs, it may be time to purchase a new vehicle. Frequent service visits can cost you time and money. If you’re paying more for repairs than you would on a new car, it’s time to switch. 
2. If you feel unsafe driving your car, you need a fresh set of wheels for your Mobile travels. 
3. If your lifestyle is changing, a new vehicle may be required. Perhaps you’re preparing for kids and need more space, or your job demands more from your vehicle.
4. If your vehicle is failing emissions tests it can be expensive to get everything up to code. 

How to Find Your Ideal New Car

When you’ve decided that the time is right for you to purchase a new vehicle it can be a bit overwhelming to know where to start. The first step in learning how to buy a new car is to set a reasonable budget and stick to it. Our financiers are eager to help you make your plan, here’s what will come next:

1. Narrow your search. Think about how you drive, how much cargo space you need, and the features you desire. Then you can start looking for vehicles that match your wishlist.
2. Pick your top three models, then conduct further research on safety ratings, reliability, lifespan, and more. If you have the time, it’s always a good idea to test drive any model you’re considering.
3. Do a local search. See what other drivers near Pensacola are paying for similar models. You can request quotes and shop around at different dealerships to find your best option.
4. Plan ahead. Are there any big holiday weekends or sales events on the horizon? If so, you may be able to save big on your purchase!

How to Afford a New Car

After you’ve decided that you’re ready to make a purchase and you know which vehicle you want to buy, it’s time to take a closer look at your budget. While it’s incredibly exciting to gear up for an automotive purchase, you’ll want to factor in the cost of a new car with the rest of your debts. According to U.S. News, your car payment should not push your monthly debts over one-third of your monthly income. So, you’ll want to look at credit cards, student loans, rent, and more as you budget. Along with your monthly payment, keep in mind that the following costs will be associated with your purchase:

• New Car Sales Tax: This is a non-negotiable fee that is typically added to your car loan.
• Interest Rate: This will impact your monthly payments. If you have a lower rate, then your payments will be lower. However, it’s important to note that your credit score is a large factor for what interest rate you can secure, and not all drivers qualify for a loan. 
• Trade-in Value: If you currently own a vehicle, you can trade it in to help boost your down payment. Learn how to trade in a car with our guide. If you owe a balance on your current vehicle, you can typically roll that debt over into the next loan. Use our online trade-in value tool to see how much you can get paid for your used car!

If you’re looking for some extra guidance, don’t worry! You can team up with our financiers to craft an individualized plan that suits your needs. If you’re ready to get ahead, you can apply for financing and calculate your payments online!

Find Your New Car in Foley!

When you’re ready to buy, Southern Chevrolet, Inc. is here for you! Not only can we teach you how to buy a new car, but we also offer a great selection of affordable models to help you find your fit with ease. What’s more, we deliver incredible new vehicle specials for even greater savings. Contact us today if you have any lingering questions about shopping for a new vehicle!