Get the car you need!

Buying a new car is the second largest purchase you'll probably make in your life, so shop wisely! The new car market is crowded with models and styles, and making a choice can be overwhelming. That's why you have to start by being honest with yourself. Do you really need an SUV? Maybe a 5-door hatchback would be a smarter choice. What about four wheel drive? Maybe a day at a skid school would be a better investment. There is a great deal of information available to you do some research!

Do Your Homework

Your first item of business is to determine how much you can afford to spend on a car. Do a budget of your monthly expenses, and get an idea of what you can spend.

Then, take a look at what kind of driving you'll be doing. Stop-and-go city traffic? Or long stretches of highway traffic? Who else will be driving the car? Will you have passengers? Do you need to have room for -- i.e. hockey equipment or other gear? Will you be driving it year-round?

Read reviews by professional automobile journalists in your local newspaper, in magazines, or on the Internet. These sources generally have higher standards and more experience with cars than you, so their views are worth considering.

What type of car? If you'll be driving in the city, a smaller car with an automatic transmission is easier to maneuver and park. If you like to take your family on road trips, consider a van or station wagon.
Check manufacturers' websites. They'll often have a comparison chart of similar type models. Just make sure it's a Canadian website. You can compare price and specs, etc.

Don't Fall in Love

If there has ever been a time to stay cool and detached, this is it! There's nothing prettier than a shiny new red convertible, but if you're trekking a family of five a hundred kilometres every month, it's just not for you.

Since you've done your homework, you know what kind of vehicle you need and can afford. When you step into the dealership, temptation may be heightened by high-pressure sales tactics - but don't give in! Stick to your guns. Don't let a sharp salesperson talk you into something you can't afford. It may even happen that you just aren't getting satisfaction at a dealership. If that's the case, you always have the option to turn around and walk away. As the consumer, you're in charge don't ever forget it!

Bring your notes. Options and trim lines can have confusing names - was that the GS or the LX you wanted? Don't hesitate to pull out competitive brochures.
Take a road test. It should last for about 30 minutes and approximate your own driving circumstances.
Read the fine print. Know exactly what you're signing!

Tips
Make sure the automotive websites you check are Canadian.

Before you buy a used car, insist on having your private mechanic inspect it.

The information in this article is general only; it is not intended as specific investment, financial, accounting, legal or tax advice for any individual.