Buying a vehicle isn't the easiest thing. I mean, you're dealing with a lot of money for starters. Second, you have to deal with the car salespeople, and they aren't always the easiest to be around. It can be quite intimidating. For example, I never want to hurt anyone's feelings, but at the same time I'm not going to be pushed around.
I decided to get a new vehicle. My parents and my husband wanted me to have a safer one. I was currently in a 2010 Honda Insight which wasn't UNSAFE per say, but it didn't have all the bells and whistles the cars of today come with. I drive around with the kids quite a bit, plus next year I'll be taking my son to and from college nearly every day since he doesn't drive.
Let me tell you, it's always comical pulling up to a dealership because you usually see a bunch of salespeople milling about, and they all seem to want to rush at you. I sort of feel like a Kardashian when I step out of a vehicle at a car lot. It's like, wow, hello, hi, who are you, yes I do need a new vehicle.
I have tips on how to buy a new vehicle, since I just went through it.
1. Walk in with a good idea of what you want. This means you need to do research online. If you walk in not knowing a thing, you're an easy target. I knew I was interested in looking at the CR-V, the HR-V, and the Honda Insight. The CR-V and HR-V was shown to me, but I realized the CR-V was too large. I am picky about the size of my vehicles. The HR-V was nice, but it wasn't calling my name. So I decided on the Honda Insight, which are apparently hard to come by. I felt pressured by one dealership to go for the HR-V since they had many on the lot, and I held my ground and kept saying, "no, I want the Honda Insight."
2. Remember the car salespeople work for YOU. Not the other way around. Don't feel bad for having tons of questions or saying exactly what you want. If they seem hesitant or irritated, ask for someone else. When it comes to that much money, you shouldn't tolerate anything less.
3. Point it out if something seems wrong. For example, one dealership offered 2500 for my trade in. I had checked Kelly's Blue Book and knew that was too low. I said this and they offered to go to 3000, but even that was a ridiculous offer.
4. Leave if you have to. We left after the trade in was too low and they didn't have what I wanted. I was told they COULD get the Honda Insight, but I'd have to purchase without seeing it, which wasn't going to happen. Plus they lied. They said there were only THREE Honda Insights in the entire state of Texas which I knew was a lie, because a dealership 15 minutes away was showing 5 on their lot. So yeah. ALWAYS do your research and find out where you can find the vehicle you want.
5. Shop around. It's silly to stick with one dealership if they aren't giving you exactly what you want. There's nothing wrong with going to various dealerships and going with the best price. Yes, the salespeople will try and make you feel guilty and might even bring up all the time they've spent with you, but hey, it's YOUR money and YOUR right to get the best deal.
Remember: the salespeople are NOT your friend. They might try to come across like they are with chummy talk, but they are out to get a commission, bottom line. Do not ever feel intimidated. If you do, leave and go to another dealership.
So did I end up with my new vehicle?
Yup! This is the 2020 Honda Insight. Do you know what I got for my trade in at another dealership? $3600, which was fair with the hail damage. Remember the other place was only going to do $2500 initially, and when I complained they went up to $3000 but it was still too low. We ended up shopping with Gunn Honda, and if you're in the San Antonio area I recommend them. Our salesperson Michelle was fabulous and patient. Honestly, I'd probably always request a woman. The other people I dealt with were men and I didn't like some of the patronizing tones at times.
I am still getting used to the technology in my new car. Remember, my other car was basic. This one has a push start and I kept forgetting and the car keeps going:
Plus there is brake and lane assist, so it beeps at me sometimes, and I'm like, "What?"
My insight gets 48 miles to the gallon, thank you very much, and it is a much smoother ride than my other car. Honestly, not many people seem to know about the Honda Insight, but I highly recommend it. This version has fabulous safety ratings, and it's a hybrid, but that doesn't mean it's a weak drive. There's a sports mode if you need an added kick.
So have you bought a new vehicle recently? Or a used one? We've done that before too!
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I've known my husband for just about 6 years at this point and um, in that time frame, he has had 7 cars. He is REALLY GOOD at buying and selling cars, it amazes me!!! He's an amazing haggler! So your tip about shopping around is smart because you can use that info to seal the deal with the car you want! I can thankfully say now... That I think he has found a car he will have FOR A LONG TIME!
ReplyDeleteGood for you for sticking to your guns! I have absolutely no problem walking away from sales people that are aggressive like that. In fact I probably wouldn't even if they gave me a good price. I will not put up with being walked over. I'm glad you got the car you wanted.
ReplyDeleteI have a 2002 Honda CRV and its starting to cost us money. I want to trade in for another CRV, but the idea of buying another car just makes my skin crawl. Its not a pleasant experience. I have the same thoughts as you. I know I won't get much on a trade-in for our car, but I don't want to get nothing for it either. Great tips and that new technology does take some time to get use to.
ReplyDeleteThat Insight looks amazing and you got the best deal. Buying a car is hard adn getting a good deal takes a lot of skill and work.
ReplyDeleteI bought a new vehicle this past February and had such a great experience. I pretty much knew what I wanted walking in and I told the salesperson that. I also made sure I had all the information that I needed to make the buying process easy. I was super happy with the way that everything turned out and I have to say I adore my Buick Encore!
ReplyDeleteI never have the guts to point out when I think something is wrong. This has got to change! Thanks for the boost of confidence.
ReplyDeleteThese are all great tips! I have to trade mine in pretty soon.
ReplyDeleteThese are great tips. I so agree with the going to another dealer part. Many years ago when I bought a car they would not budge on the price so I drove to another dealer and bought the car at the other place for a better price.
ReplyDeleteThese are some wonderful tips. I have to admit I got a car earlier this year and I found it very intimidating, I definitely could have used these tips then.
ReplyDeleteIt definitely pays to shop around and boy oh boy the internet is such a huge step in helping find just what you want. Nice new ride, congrats.
ReplyDeleteThese are some great tips for buying a new car. I will say, I saw your new car on FB and fell in love! I have always loved Honda, and my oldest is about to be an adult so I think it's time to upgrade from the family van ;)
ReplyDeleteI haven't had a car in years!!! I totally need to look into getting a car soon. I just moved farther away!
ReplyDeleteI think these are all great tips. It's been a while since I've gotten a car from a car dealership. I know I'm going to be looking for one soon though.
ReplyDeleteI'll be doing this for the second time (but the first time in 10 years) this coming April. I'm so nervous but you've given some excellent tips here. I'll be taking my father in law and father for moral support (and because car salesmen react better to men than women apparently).
ReplyDeleteI recently bought a new car and I test drove several first. The only thing that was important to me was that it was comfortable to my back (failed back surgery). I love all of your tips and I think anyone who is going go be buying a new car in the near future should read them.
ReplyDeleteThese are all smart and clever. I hate the salesman pressure when buying cars. Your tips are on point!
ReplyDeleteCar shopping is so stressful. I want to trade my BMW but I get such ridiculously low offers. I am glad you got a great deal!
ReplyDeleteI hate car shopping! And yes, I walk out as soon as they start treating me like crap. I know better. I am hoping my 2008 Armada holds out for about 2 more years. Then I plan to buy a new car. I have no idea which one yet--just that it needs to be an SUV because I am so used to being able to see everything around me.
ReplyDeleteThose are excellent tips! Buying a car can be so nerve-wracking. We've spent entire days at dealerships in the past, just trying to reach an agreement....
ReplyDeleteFirst of all I'd need to finally pass my driving licence exam! These tips look quite helpful! :)
ReplyDeleteYou don't have to deal with that anymore. You can shop prices online and email the Internet Sales Manager from a few dealerships of the make that you want. They're used to dealing with people like you who hate the traditional experience. It also gives you the opportunity to state your expectations before you hear a word from them.
ReplyDeleteEven when I'm browsing at a dealership, I'll immediately ask for the internet sales manager. The scummy salespeople will assume you've already been communicating with that person and will back off.
One more pro tip - is all else fails, find the youngest person. Anyone old selling cars is highly skilled at separating customers from their money & you want nothing to do with those guys (it's never NOT been a guy).
Thank you for this tip! I will surely keep it in mind.
DeleteWe haven't bought a new car in a couple years now. It is good to be prepared going into the dealership. I've been hearing horror stories about trading in a car where the dealership takes away your keys and changes your contract!
ReplyDeleteI think you did a great job. When I bought my first new off the lot car I was so unprepared. That was 16 years ago and has had a huge impact on how I feel about car lots and salesman.
ReplyDeleteThese are really great and useful tips. I'm sure many can use these especially those who are thinking of buying their cars.
ReplyDeleteShopping around is key so you can compare prices. I did that when we bought our SUV a couple of years ago and happy with the results.
ReplyDelete-LYNNDEE
We bought a car in the Spring and let me tell you, shopping around is KEY. That way you don't have to negotiate too much and you get the best deal.
ReplyDeleteThis is so great! Buying a new car can be so stressful if you aren't educated.
ReplyDeleteI am clueless about cars or buying them, clueless!!! I imagine i would be super stressed out about it lol.
ReplyDeletesatta king Make use of a ground cover, such as mulch or hay. Be sure when you are purchasing your ground cover, that it is also organic, as any chemicals contained in the mulch or hay can be absorbed by your plants. Organic ground coverings will protect the roots of your plants and help prevent water evaporation. play bazaar
ReplyDeleteOh this really makes me miss my Honda Accord! I had a 2015 that we bought brand new but then we got into a car accident in it and I wanted something bigger. Buying a new car can be a real hassle sometimes.
ReplyDeleteyou'll love the push button start once you get used to it.. took me about 4 months to get used to it! enjoy!
ReplyDeleteThis car looks amazing congratulations on your new car.
ReplyDeleteLove this and love your new car! I have a 2016 and we will be paying it off in a few months and cannot wait to enjoy it for a bit payment free. After we do... we will be getting a truck for my husband and I will use your tips so thank you!
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ReplyDeleteI just bought a car and am pleased to note that the advice you have given is exactly what I have taken into account. So valuable advice!
I don't have a driver's licence, but when I get one I'll follow your tips! They seem to be very useful! :)
ReplyDeleteWe had to purchase a new car 3 years ago after being involved in an accident that totaled my car. I wrote down everything I wanted and went in prepared to walk away. Your new car is nice!
ReplyDeleteI need your tips! I understand nothing about cars but our gets too old and started falling apart so we need a change
ReplyDeleteThese are helpful tips most especially to those people who have no idea on buying their own cars. I am glad that I have a parents and a husband who are good in buying and selling a cars.
ReplyDeleteWe are getting a van/3rd row SUV this winter, so this is really helpful. Thanks for all the tips!
ReplyDeleteI had no clues on how how to buy a car, the one I currently use my dad bought it for me when I started driving. This will be so helpful when I want to change mine
ReplyDeleteThat's a beautiful car! Love Honda's, they seem to last forever. Thanks for all the great tips.
ReplyDeleteShopping around is definitely a great idea so you can compare prices, etc. That was what we did before we bought my SUV. -LYNNDEE
ReplyDeleteCarbuying is difficult. The salesmen lie a lot. You have to understand how to analyze a contract before you sign.
ReplyDeleteCar salesmen are the worst. I'm a lifetime Honda fan over here, love your new ride!
ReplyDeleteThis is why I always hate shopping for new cars....they can be the worst sometimes. Glad you go what you wanted :)
ReplyDeleteI am always amazed at the descrepencies from one dealership to another with a trade in. Yours was $1,100. That's huge! So glad you got a good deal and a NEW car.
ReplyDeleteI have never bought a car from the lot. There are way too many things to worry about.
ReplyDeleteYou made a great deal! Congratulations! It's an awesome car! Thanks for the tips!
ReplyDeleteWhat a fab car! I've been planning to buy a new car so these tips are helpful!
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