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5 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Buying a Vehicle

By: Libby Cook, Marketing Intern @ Brighton Ford

Buying a new vehicle can be stressful and intimidating, especially if it's your first time, so being prepared is essential. Understanding what you are looking for and asking the right questions can make your car buying experience fun and exciting. Here at Brighton Ford, we want to share five questions you can ask yourself before buying a new vehicle.

1. Is this the best time for you to purchase a new vehicle?

An excellent place to start is deciding whether this is the right time to purchase a new vehicle. Making a large purchase like buying a car is exciting but don’t get caught up in the excitement when it may not be the best time. Consider your budget, lifestyle, credit scores, and purchase pricing. Also, consider the time of year; depending on the type of vehicle, it may be better to purchase it during the summer rather than the winter.

2. Would you want a used or new vehicle?

After deciding when is the right time to purchase a vehicle, consider whether a used or new car best fits your budget. Buying new comes the peace of mind that you are the first to owe the vehicle and have a factory warranty but can be higher in price. Today you can also customize your vehicle to best fit your lifestyle. However, buying a used car with miles on it can be budget-friendly. Even with all the bells and whistles, you get the exact vehicle for a more affordable price tag. Deciding to buy used or new should best fit your budget and lifestyle.

3. What model/type of vehicle will best fit your lifestyle?

Another vital question is what type of vehicle you are looking to purchase. Consider your lifestyle whether you have a family that you need to drive around. The mileage you drive on average and the price of gas. Whether you are looking for something sporty or larger to haul things, these are essential things to consider so you can get the perfect vehicle that best fits your lifestyle. You may also want to consider if it will fit in your garage or parking space. It sounds odd to think about, but it would be pretty frustrating to buy a new vehicle and find out it doesn't fit in your garage!

4. What do you currently like and dislike about your vehicle?

It is essential to understand what you like in a vehicle and dislike. Knowing whether or not you want all the bells and whistles or just the standard features for the car can help make your car buying experience smooth and easy. Consider both the features you need and want in the vehicle. Don’t be afraid to do a quick google search or watch a youtube video on the different features available for the type of car you want.

5. Are you the only person driving the vehicle, or will it be comfortable for everyone?

Lastly, consider whether the vehicle is for you only or if others will drive the vehicle. Having a comfortable vehicle for all drivers means a win-win for everyone. If you are 5’4”, a small vehicle may be perfect, but it might not work for your 6’1” significant other! Also, consider if your kids will drive the vehicle or not. Larger vehicles may not be the best to learn how to drive in, so maybe going with med size or smaller vehicle would be better.

Knowing what you want and need in a vehicle can make your car buying experience smooth and fun. Purchasing a new car shouldn’t be stressful but exciting. Having these five questions in your back pocket could make the experience ten times better.

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