Are you planning on buying a new car? Are you having second thoughts on which car to buy? The following points will hopefully help you in choosing your next car.

Affordability

When you plan for a new car, don't forget your budget. Plan how much you can afford to spend on your next car on the basis of your needs and requirements. Don't just go for expensive cars, as they come with expensive service costs, spare parts, yearly vehicle taxes, insurance costs, and installments. Are you ready for that?

Full cash payment or Monthly installment

Cash payments are always better than monthly installments, as you don't have to pay hefty interests with every installment. Ever thought how much you would need to pay extra? The car you are buying is worth that much extra money? But without installments, your affordability will also decrease. If you need to take a loan, choose the bank wisely. Choose an institution that offers low interest rate, or short time period, both of which will benefit you.

Resale Value of your previous car

If you already own a car, plan to buy the next one by exchanging it, which will greatly reduce your stress. Find out how much your present car is worth. It was an investment made by you some years ago, so try to get a few extra bucks as a return on your investment. Don't just go with the exchange/reconditioned shop rates. Spread information in your friend and family circles, someone may be in need of a used car. This can benefit both you and your used car buyer.

Safety Features

Don't ever take safety for granted. It's always you who drives your car: sometimes a friend or a family member might borrow your car. By purchasing a low safety car, you are not only endangering your life but also the lives of your dear ones. So always keep safety in mind first. You don't have to buy a Mercedes or a Lexus; a car that is well rated by NCAP can keep you and your family safe in case of uncertain incidents while driving.  

After-sales service and spares

All the vehicles are made to perform up to certain levels only. Technically, no one can justify a vehicle as good or bad. All the vehicles need periodic maintenance or minor repair sooner or later.  For up to a certain period it is the selling dealer/distributor's responsibility to avail you all the service and spare parts required for the vehicle for these types of maintenance. So if you're planning to buy a car, ask your dealer what provisions are available for service, spare parts during repair and vehicle break down.

Mileage and performance

Everyone who is buying a car expects his car to give the best mileage, and the best performance.   But the sad thing is that you ‘best mileage car’ may not always provide the best performance, and vice versa. Ask yourself, “Is your car a need or luxury. Decide what you need. You can always find a point of commonality.

Resale Value

As said earlier, it's an investment. So try buying a car with the maximum possible resale value.  But do keep in mind the safety, after-sales services, mileage and performance.

Comparision

In the market, there probably are so many vehicles available that may meet your need or requirements. How do you choose?  The best thing is to visit as many car showrooms and bring their brochures and pricelist, put them on the table, and compare. Check for common features and differences, and decide what features you need and you don't need. If any confusion arises find out additional information from web.

Offers/Discounts

People are always attracted by discount offers.  It is natural. But sometimes this tendency can lead to selection of a lesser quality product or products that do not match with your requirements. But getting discounts make you feel as if you have found a good deal, but don't get blinded with it.

Test drive

Don’t rush to decision. Always take the car for a test drive. This will also help you narrow down your choices on your list to a few vehicles that meet your requirements.