Looking for a new set of wheels can bring a roller coaster ride of emotions for everyone no matter how experienced they are. It is one of those “big life purchases” that everyone wants to get just right, as there is no safety net of a “14-day return policy.”
With so much to consider, GMC recommends seven rules that will help buyers find the car that fits just right.
Following are tips offered by GMC which will help buyers to find a suitable car:
Research: The perfect start to finding an ideal car is to research and remove any uncertainties. One of the first steps is to list out the desired elements of a dream new car in terms of space, features, performance and technology.
Looking at trusted car dealerships and desired models is also a good start. Note down the top-five cars that meet all personal needs and wants, this will help keep focus when looking for a new car.
Set a budget: With so many models of cars in the market, setting a budget on something that is actually affordable, will help narrow down the cars to take for a test drive. Set yourself a firm budget and stick to it, temptation will rear its ugly head drawing your eye to models outside your price range, be sure to resist the urge.
If buying a new car needs financing, then make sure to be aware of the total cost involved and the monthly payments. Other points to consider when budgeting include monthly fuel costs, insurance and maintenance.
Arrange a test drive: Having done the research, choosing a dream car and arranging a test drive is the fun and exciting part.
An important tip when arranging a test drive is to drive a model that is as close as possible to those listed during the research. Be sure to drive on roads that you are familiar with on a daily basis.
Try to spend some time in the passenger seat, playing with the radio, and even ask the sales person to take you round the block to experience the car from another perspective to check the road noise and ride quality. Anyone with children should check whether the child seat is going to fit in the back.
Check out all the features: Be a leader in the decision making and make sure before taking the test drive that there is a clear explanation of what features are standard and what is optional on the car. Measure up the seating and storage capacity too.
Do not benchmark the new car against your current one: That new car look and performance can be very tempting. Stay disciplined when looking for a new car and when comparing it to your current one. Try and book your test drives back to back, or as near as possible, so the experiences are fresh in mind.
Seek detailed information about the package: Note down all possible questions ahead of the test drive and stick to personal convictions when buying a new car; if there is a comprehensive and extensive warranty in mind and a desired cost of maintenance, mention it to the salesperson.
It is important not to overlook the cost of ownership as many manufacturers take pride in their competitive cost of maintenance.
It is important to know when the car will need to be taken for maintenance and the warranty package available when it comes to the ownership of a new car.
Do not rush: Go back and re-test the top-three cars in your list. There is a lot to consider when buying a new car, and a decision should not be rushed, as it is one that a buyer will have to live with for a number of years.

Source: Arab News