Buying a car is quite a bit like hunting--there's a season for it. And one of the best seasons to hunt-down a great auto deal is the time right after the New Year. But don't let the myriad of car commercials be your sole information outlet. Experts say that doing your own car-related research and "keeping an open mind" are the keys to finding a four-wheel bargain.
"If you can get a 2014 model, you'll save about 10 percent off the MSRP as compared to six percent off MSRP for 2015 models," saya Aaron Lewis, senior communications manager at Edmunds.com.
The internet is a future new or used car owner's best friend. Websites like Kelley Blue Book, Edumunds.com, and Motortrend.com not only allow the soon-to-be buyer to access both customer and expert opinions on their prospective automobiles, but they also allow the savvy individual to compare and contrast online deals from various car companies and dealer.
"These Internet prices are usually aggressive because dealers know it's easy for people to get them and compare them," Lewis says.
But, on the same token, future buyers shouldn't jump on the first car they may see at the dealership lot. Even before they step foot into that money-hungry, window-heavy dealership, the customer should've done preliminary research. Sites like CarFax.com will give insight to the financial obligations that are required post-purchase―the car's maintenance services and overall reliability. That little factoid can add-up over time, quite literally. And with the average automobile costing upwards of $500 a year in up-keep, it's imperative that a reliable―and well-covered vehicle―is chosen.
Once the vehicle, in question, is chosen and online deals amassed, it's time to negotiate down the price of that future car.
"If you get competitive bids, you can often buy a vehicle for hundreds of dollars below invoice and sometimes thousands below invoice," Checkbook's Kevin Brasler says.
And once sitting down, looking over the purchasing contract, comb through the small print with a fine-toothed comb. "It's the fine print that can kill you; it can dramatically change the terms of that great-sounding offer," says Jack Gills, the author of The Car Book 2014.
Should everything go over well, that soon-to-be car customer will drive away a very satisfied automobile owner.
Want to get an up-close and personal look at this year's newest models, from the Lexus RC F to the newest Tesla? You're in luck. Now through Sunday the San Diego Convention Center is hosting the San Diego International Auto Show, filled to the brim with state-of-the-art models for every price range and with every consumer in mind. You'll get a glimpse at the versatile new Jeep Renegade Trailhawk, while also seeing some of the best-in-class vintage pieces as well. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.