Buy a Car
How to Choose the Right Vehicle
The latest data indicates that the average length of ownership now increased to a little over 8 years. So, perhaps it makes sense to take a little time and put a little effort into the process.
Buying a car is something that should be done with as little emotion as possible and with sufficient time to make sure your purchase is the right one. So how do you simplify the process? The answer: Start by analyzing both the best features and short-comings of your current car. We've provided a Road Test scoresheet to help you set your benchmark. Also consider some of the basics:
- How many people do you need to accommodate?
- How much cargo do you carry on a regular basis?
- What type of driving do you do?
- Most importantly, how much can you afford to spend?
Needs Evaluation
It's natural to choose from the heart--most buyers do--and then rationalize upon choice afterwards. Not a good idea. Another problem is impatience. When most people decide it's time to buy they want to do it RIGHT NOW!! That usually means accepting something that's on the dealer's lot even if it isn't really what you wanted. Here's a Needs Evaluation worksheet that will help you to define your real need objectively. Once you've established these basics, THEN, you can start to consider features like styling, performance, fuel efficiency, cargo capacity, reliability, dealer reputation and warranty provisions. The suggestions here are recommendations, not absolutes. Go ahead, answer the questions here objectively. You may be surprised at the conclusion.
Road Test Scoresheet
Test Drive It
Very few people actually take the time to develop a shortlist of vehicles for consideration and then test drive them. Considering the cost involved and the time you'll have to live with your decision - the national average of vehicle ownership is now 8 years - it's the least you can do. Here's a Road Test scoresheet (used by the editors of Carguide) to help you evaluate your choices.
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