DUBAI 25 June 2018: Buying a car can be daunting. After all, it’s probably the largest transaction you’ll ever make (after real estate). So where do you start?
Narrow down your needs: First consider the core requirements you need from your next used car– speed, comfort, space, safety, reliability, economy, adventure or a combination,, says CarSwitch. From these you can begin to draw parallels of the key specs that meet your needs. The easiest starting point is likely the body type. For example, if you’re looking for space and a little adventure, an SUV will likely best meet the cut.
Meanwhile, if reliability and economy are a larger concern than consider hatchbacks for example. Second, consider how important reliability is for you. Do you mind making more regular trips to your local garage, or are you the kind of driver that doesn’t know where the nearest garage is! If you’re in the later, than opt for newer vehicle (+2015 year model) with relatively low mileage (60,000 kms). Doing this helps focus your search and make the online search process more productive.
Shortlist key features: What are the must have key features for you? Is built in navigation a must, or does your phone with a holder do a better job? What about Leather seats, sunroof, Bluetooth, parking sensors / reverse cams? What about the latest and greatest gadgets from blind spot monitors, adaptive cruise control, bird’s eye cameras? Make a list of must-haves to filter out the cars that just don’t cut it for you. The more feature rich kind of driver you are the more you are likely to find your match in American, German, or English makes.
Make a budget: Set parameters for how much you want to spend. Do you plan to finance or settle in cash? Start saving up if cash is the way for you. And, if you plan to finance your car then check with your bank to see how much they are willing to loan out to you. Having this estimate would really channel your attention in the right direction. As a general rule of thumb in Dubai, UAE the central bank mandates that your total monthly liabilities (so any existing installments you make and 5% of your credit card limits) do not exceed 50% of your monthly income. That helps you determine how much you can go for.
Used or new: Are you looking for a new or a used car? New is for those that don’t want to risk getting a lemon and want to be sure of the condition of the car. On the other hand, used is for those who are looking for some extra value for money. Online marketplaces make the trade-off easier as all the used cars there are pre-inspected and warrantied so you get the best of both worlds.
Luxury or practicability: The finer things in life are a little harder to describe in text, but stand out when you first step into your next car. The grade of leather, the sturdiness of the controls, the sound the car makes when the door closes. In higher end vehicles each is engineered to inspire a certain reaction, and this certainly comes with a price. Opting for a used car can help stretch your budget to afford some of these luxuries, if that matters for you.
You’re all set with the tips you need to look out for when considering to buy your new ride! Take care on the roads and be safe while enjoying the new car!