April 29, 2009

Buying a New Car Does Not Have to Be Difficult

Buying a new car is a major purchase and probably one of the largest you will make asides from purchasing your own home. Before you begin the searching process, take a few minutes to think about exactly what you will need.

If you have a family - or are expecting a new addition to the family - then a two-seater sports model may not tick all the boxes. Think about what you use your car for; if you play golf you need to check the boot capacity; if you drive long distances frequently then fuel consumption becomes important.

Other deciding factors may include the age of the car, whether you need two or four doors, carbon emissions and the make or model. Taking the time to consider such practical points helps you know exactly what it is you're looking for, which should make the search for your new vehicle much more straightforward.

If you've managed to narrow your search down a little and at least know if you want a saloon or 4x4, you could start to read reviews on various cars and get to know which particular make or model best fits your needs. The Internet has a wealth of information and being as informed as possible before you arrive at the car garage will help you find the car you really want.

There are advantages and disadvantages to buying either a brand new or a second hand car. New cars benefit from all the latest technology and safety features. What's more, most new cars come with a warranty, so there should be minimal maintenance bills during this duration.

However, one of the main disadvantages to purchasing a new car is the depreciation that takes effect the minute you drive out of the showroom. In comparison, second hand cars are less expensive to buy and often can have much lower depreciation than new models.

Furthermore, if you buy a second hand car over three years old then a MOT is required and any related costs will be incurred. Maintenance costs are also likely to be higher on a second hand car, so factor this into any budgeting you may be doing. The running costs of your car are equally important considerations. Road tax is an annual cost that can vary depending on your cars CO2 emissions and fuel type.

Insurance is another essential, as it is a legal requirement to have a policy in place when driving a car. Again, the specification of your car can affect the cost of insurance, so do your homework beforehand. Whether you decide to investigate online car insurance or simply through a high street insurance broker, it is important to ensure that you are covered.

Of course, there is much to take into consideration when buying a new car, but it pays to carefully consider all the necessary factors to ensure you purchase the most suitable vehicle for your needs.

Andrew Regan writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.


By Andrew Regan