Don't make these 7 mistakes when buying a new vehicle

Buying a new car is a huge commitment, a major milestone, and a big-ticket purchase. This is why you must do it right. You need to make sure you are getting the best deal for your money.

There are lots of things you need to do when buying a new car, however, there are also things that car buyers should not do. Many still commit mistakes that can and should be avoided.

Chances are almost everyone has already committed at least one mistake from the list Philkotse.com prepared below.  The list from Philkotse.com will tell you the things that you should avoid if you are a prospective car buyer.

1. Ignoring online research

This is one of the most common mistakes most car buyers do when planning to buy a new vehicle. The internet is not only for school or work-related research. You should not forget that it can also be a very reliable resource for your car-shopping adventure. It will help you find unbiased and honest reviews of the latest cars.

The internet will help you find unbiased and honest reviews of the latest cars

>>> Read more: Do's and dont's: Essential guidelines in buying your first car.

2. Passing on test drives

Some people think that a brand-new car is always good; no testing required. However, that is a complete misconception. Though you have researched online for feedbacks and reviews, you shouldn’t solely rely on those.

The best way to know if the vehicle is perfect for you is to get to experience driving it yourself.  Whether you’re purchasing from a private seller or a dealership, you should still insist on a test drive before you give your hard-earned money.

Through a test drive, you can learn lots about a vehicle. You should test it on different road surfaces, traffic conditions, and put it through its paces. This way, you will know how the vehicle copes with traffic jams and performs on the highway.

The best way to know if the vehicle is perfect for you is to experience driving it yourself

3. Not figuring out the total cost of the car loan

When purchasing a new vehicle, being a bit of a mathematician is required. You also need to be a monitoring expert if you want to get the best deal. A lot of people need to take out a loan to pay for their new vehicle -- unlike those other car buyers who are lucky enough to have millions of pesos in their bank accounts.

Do not be too quick to agree to a loan that looks affordable before you check the total percentage that the finance company will be charging you. Otherwise, you might be paying too much for your car.

When purchasing a new vehicle, being a bit of a mathematician is required

>>> Also read: Car buying tips & tricks to avoid hidden fees from dealers.

4. Ignoring long-term cost

Most car buyers only look at the sticker price of a vehicle when they visit a local dealership. They fail to take into consideration the various long-term costs associated with owning and operating their car. This is one of the many mistakes most car buyers make.

They think that owning a vehicle is expensive only because of its acquisition cost. What they don't know is that it is a never-ending expense, from the gasoline, car insurance, and mechanical repairs. You should be ready for these long-term expenses if you plan to buy a car.

Fuel is just one of the costs of owning a car

5. Not shopping around

Generally (and we say generally), you should not trust car salesmen as they will do their best to persuade you into buying their vehicle even if it is not your choice. Don't get carried away by sales talk. Their main goal might be to sell you a vehicle to get a bigger paycheck, but that does not mean you have to avoid car dealerships to also avoid persuasive car salesmen.

You still need to visit at least two or more dealerships (of different brands) or, better yet, visit as many as you can. This way, you will have a better idea of what’s out there. It will give you a wide selection of potential vehicles to purchase. Shop around and you will find lots of car models that might be perfect for you.

>>> You might concern: 10 terms you need to understand when buying cars from dealers.

6. Not knowing the pros and cons of brand-new and second-hand cars

The best thing about purchasing a new set of wheels is not the new-car smell but that new cars are less prone to breakdown. Even if they do, it is all covered by a warranty from the dealership.

Know the pros and cons of a brand new and second-hand car

However, second-hand vehicles also have an advantage. They are much cheaper and, if they were maintained well by the previous owner, they can still be of use for a long time. Most people who shop for vehicles think that purchasing a brand-new vehicle is the best option available.

However; there are some great cars at great prices up for sale on second-hand car lots. As long as you know how to shop for used cars and are aware of the precautions when checking the quality of the used car, you will be able to find the best deals by purchasing a used car.

>>> Grab your attention: New cars vs. used cars or pre-owned cars: Which one to buy?

7. Choosing aesthetics over function

Many car buyers prefer to purchase a vehicle that is attractive or good-looking without knowing how efficient it will be or if it will really suit their needs. It’s not that you have to settle for an ugly vehicle, but you have to take into consideration your needs. For example, will the car be able to accommodate your family?

It’s not that you have to settle for an ugly vehicle, but you have to take into consideration your needs

Is it fuel-efficient? Does it have a high safety rating? You should first consider all the aspects of the car, features, specifications, safety and security, technology, ride and handling, and engine. Don't just focus on the exterior appeal. What's important is that it will match your needs or your family's needs.

Before you make a purchase and before handing over your money, make sure you’re doing it right. Avoid doing the aforementioned mistakes that most car buyers make.  Ensure that you’re getting the most out of your money and that you will buy the perfect vehicle that you need.