If you are in the process of having family discussions regarding your next family car then there are some important factors that you need to consider. There is no point in getting a car that you will be unhappy with, it is kind of like purchasing a puppy. You can’t return it if you don’t like something once you’ve committed to it. Take a look below to find out some important aspects of buying a new family car.
Budget
First and foremost you can’t buy a car without first working out how much you have available to spend on said car. Finding out how much you have available will give you a rough idea of the type of cars you can start looking at. You will also need to decide if you are buying the car outright, using finance, or applying for a loan from your bank. The last two options will need a great credit score when it comes to being successful with your application.
Usage
What will your new car be used for? Whether you are buying a car or a truck for sale, finding one that fits your family’s needs is necessary. Will it be used solely to transport the kids back and forth or will it be used for work purposes? What you use the car for will depend on the type of car you need. For example, if you are going to be using the car to haul stuff around for work then you may be better off with a big vehicle such as a truck. These will not only fit your family in but also all your work paraphernalia. Click here to find out more if a truck is what you are looking into.
Size
You need to think about the size of the car you are wanting to get. This is not only due to fitting everyone in but also trying to park it and drive it as well. People often forget that if they splurge on a big bulky car then it’s all well and good until they try to maneuver or park it. Make sure that whatever size car you are looking into that it is suitable and easy for you to handle. If you are sharing the driving with your other half then you both need to be comfortable with the size of the vehicle before you buy it.
Boot Space
When it comes to the size of your vehicle you not only want to ensure everyone is comfy with plenty of legroom but you also need to make sure that the boot space is large enough for you. Commonly family cars are used for shopping and the kid’s things such as buggies and toys. If you get a smaller car then be prepared for a smaller boot, great boot sizes you can expect from estate-type cars or SUVs.
New Vs Old
Something else for you to consider is if you want to buy a new vehicle or an old, used one. There are many pros and cons to both of these options, for instance, new cars contain all the high-tech additions but they are also more expensive. Meanwhile, used cars are cheaper, however, they may cost more in the long run especially if they go wrong. Think about what option would work out better for you and your family. The only people who will know you’ve bought a used car will be yourself and the dealer.
Fuel Type
Another important thing to consider when buying a new car is the fuel type you want. There are four options here, and they are petrol, diesel, electric, or hybrid. Hybrid technology uses electricity alongside another fuel source such as petrol. If you have an electric car or a hybrid you will need to remember to charge it regularly. Be aware that all cars have their downsides, and with fuel prices on the rise maybe it would be better to invest in an all-electric vehicle.
Safety Specs
When it comes to buying a new car you want to make sure that everyone is safe while you’re driving it. This is why it is a good idea to consult the safety rating website to check out how well your car scored in the crash testing. Cars that come into production go through rigorous testing to make sure they are suitable for not only you, the driver but also passengers and members of the public. You want to be looking for a car that is as close to 5* as possible and as near to 100% in all other areas.
Color
This may seem like something that isn’t very important but the color of your car can push up insurance premiums. For example, red is one color that pushes the numbers up when it comes to signing up for insurance. There are usually specific color choices when it comes to buying a new car and when you fill out all the paperwork the dealership will ask what color you want. You also get the choice with a used car, however, this could be a little more limited.
Dealer
You will need to find the best place to buy your car from. Whether you decide to buy new or used, it is a good idea to shop around to find not only the best price for your car but the best place. You should read reviews from previous customers as this will give you great insight into how the place deals with customers and aftercare. Ask around your friends or family to see if they have any recommendations for you. You never know you might get a bit of a discount if you mention the company was recommended.
Other Costs Involved
Finally, it is not just the price of the car that you have to factor into your budget. You will also need to consider the costs to fill it up or charge it, along with any servicing and maintenance it might need. It is ticky working out fuel costs as these fluctuate and vary a lot of the time. However, you will be able to check servicing and other prices from a reputable garage.
