3 Things You Need to Know When You Stumble Across Your Dream Car

Posted by Anna Johnson on July 11th, 2023

Just because you aren’t looking for a new car doesn’t mean to say that you will not stumble across one of your dreams. These sorts of events are the ones that are remembered fondly by those that experience them as ‘the car that was meant to be.’ Of course, this is a strictly heart-based purchase, and before you part with your money, you should most certainly let your head get involved too.

#1 Drive before you buy

You should always drive a car before you buy it. Even if you know very little or absolutely nothing about cars, you will know that there is something fundamentally wrong with a vehicle. It could be the smell of petrol, a clunking noise, or the feel of the engine straining.

Of course, for finer problems, you will probably need an expert opinion, but if you think there is something wrong, walk away, and if the seller refuses to let you drive the car before you purchase it, then run.

#2 Get the finance

If you really like the car and it drives well, then clearly, it is meant to be. Not many people have the kind of money sitting in their back pocket or in their bank account to buy a car outright unless they have been saving hard, so you are probably going to need some finance in place. Speaking to money lenders before making any arrangements to purchase the car could save you face with the owner if you are unable to get finance.

However, getting a loan against car payments can be done even if you have bad credit by using lenders that will look further than just your credit score. Of course, as with any loan, you should make sure that you can afford the repayments and that you are aware of the loan companies’ terms and conditions before you agree to take out the loan.

#3 Talk about the price

You may find that if you have cash and are ready to pay that the seller may be inclined to work out a deal where you pay less for the car, and they get the money quicker. The price could reduce even more so if you are looking to trade in your old vehicle for the new one. Of course, this last tactic will only work if it is a car dealer selling the car as a private seller is unlikely to want to swap their car for a bit of cash and another car that will require selling.

When it comes to purchasing from a dealer, you will find that there are various sorts of bargaining chips that can be used. For instance, if there is obvious minor damage to the paintwork or bodywork of the car that will require sorting to bring it back to its luster, or stained seat covers that will need to be treated. In short, if the dealer wants it gone and to have money for it in their pocket (which they will and do), you may be able to do a deal. Of course, this doesn’t work every time, but it can save you money on your next car purchase.