q ON THE ROAD: NEW AND USED CARS, REPAIRS AND RULES OF THE ROAD


Buying a Car


If you don’t already have a car you probably want one. While a new car would be nice, at today’s prices it’s probably out of the question.


What type of car do you want? Need? Can afford? Research your choices by reviewing magazines such as Consumer Reports for evaluations.


Compare prices between two or more dealers who sell the same type of cars. Remember, the sticker price you see on the window of the car is only the manufacturer’s suggested retail price. You don’t have to pay that much. Car dealers expect you to bargain with them! Magazines such as Consumer Reports can tell you approximately what dealers pay for each make and model car, and that will show you how much room you have to bargain.


Compare warranties. Most new cars come with at least a 12-month or 12,000 mile warranty, but some have 5-year or 50,000 mile warranties. Most warranties at least cover engine, powertrain and rust corrosion; some may cover more. Others offer virtually free maintenance for the first several years. These differences are important; maintenance and repair costs can be significant over time.


Consider financing options. Car dealers offer special low interest financing from time to time, and that can be a much cheaper way to finance the car than what you can get from a bank or credit union. Compare before you decide where to borrow.


Buy only the options you want. Dealers can certainly put extras such as pinstripes, radios, and rustproofing on cars, but they must also tell you that you can buy the car without all the extras. You can usually buy these same items from auto parts or auto specialty stores for much less than what the dealer will charge you.


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On Your Own, 2008 Edition


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