Other than your home, your car is probably one of the largest purchases you will ever make. Uncertain news about the economy and auto industry, as well as tighter credit requirements, may leave you a bit hesitant to buy a new or used car. However, now may be just the right time. Never before has the auto industry offered consumers so many incentives, so you may find the deal of a lifetime!
Although buying a car can be exciting, it is also a significant investment. Following these tips as you shop for a new or pre-owned automobile, van or truck can help you make smarter decisions when it comes to finding, and getting, the best possible deal.
Do your homework before purchasing a new or pre-owned vehicle
* Consider the timing - The best time to buy a car is June through December. Auto sales have declined, so dealers are more willing to make deals. In addition, in order to make room for the new models, dealerships push to reduce their inventory, often by offering shoppers extra buying incentives. The worst time to shop for a car? When yours is no longer running. Never shop when you are desperate. Instead, plan ahead and schedule time to shop around to find the best deal.
* Research local prices - When it comes to car shopping, it pays to be prepared. At TrueCars.com, you can find out what other people in your neighborhood actually paid for their cars, as well as get the factory and actual dealer's costs, average price, and a target range. Other reputable sites, like Edmunds.com and KBB.com (Kelley Blue Book), provide similar information for both new and used cars. This is helpful whether you are buying from a private owner or a dealership. Take a folder with this information when you shop for a vehicle. Armed with this knowledge, you are more likely to negotiate a good deal. Finally, be prepared to walk away if you are not offered a fair price.
* Review the vehicle history - Never buy a used car without a history report, like the ones available at CarFax.com. Many dealerships provide a free car history report. However, if necessary, you can order one online for about $30 - it could prevent you from making a poor investment, like buying a car that was totaled due to an accident or had other catastrophes, such as having been stolen or in a flood.
* Ask about the warranty - If you are buying a used car, don't buy one without a warranty. Purchasing a vehicle "as-is" is only asking for trouble. Sales of certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles have increased 30 percent since 2002, according to AutoData, a leading source of market intelligence for the automotive industry. Because these programs typically extend the warranty by years, rather than a few months, they offer more protection for your investment. Hence, they can be a better investment.
Take advantage of incentives when buying a car
* Manufacturer and dealership rebates and incentives - Hit hard by the recession, the U.S. auto industry is struggling. To entice potential buyers, both dealerships and manufacturers are offering an unprecedented number of incentives. Check online and in the local newspaper to see what deals are available in your area.
* New Energy Tax Credit - If you are open to owning a hybrid, diesel, electric or other alternative fuel vehicle, check the tax incentives at FuelEconomy.gov. Although many have phased out, there are still several that can save you hundreds, maybe thousands, of dollars in taxes next April.
Find the best financing
* Check your credit report - Before you begin negotiating, obtain a copy of your credit report. Knowing your credit score before you apply for an auto loan can help you determine what interest rate offers to expect. According to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), each of the national consumer reporting companies (Equifax.com, Experian.com and TransUnion.com) must provide you with a free copy of your credit report each year. For the best results, experts recommend that you:
- Eliminate credit card and other debt, as much as possible - Have a credit score of 670 or above - Maintain a new job or residence for at least 12 months - Have a prior loan with at least 18 months of reporting to the credit bureau
* Look for a no down payment option - In the past, consumers were able to obtain auto loans with no money down. Today, most lenders require a down payment between 10 to 20 percent of the purchase price, although there are still plenty of good deals that can be found. Some banks like Fifth Third Bank are continuing to offer no down payment financing.
* Find a low interest rate - If you need vehicle financing, finding a competitive interest rate can save you thousands of dollars over the course of your auto loan. Before you apply, ask if you could qualify for any extra incentives. For example, Fifth Third Bank offers a rate discount when you make payments from a Fifth Third Bank checking account. Although buying a car can be exciting, it is also one of the largest purchases you may ever make.
Following these guidelines as you shop for a new or pre-owned automobile, van or truck can help you make smarter decisions when it comes to choosing and financing a car. Whether you are buying a brand new or used model from a dealership or private party, Fifth Third Bank can help. For more information, visit www.53.com or a local Banking Center today. Loans subject to credit review and approval. Fifth Third Bank, Member FDIC.
Matt Saunders is a senior associate at Rosetta, one of the top 10 interactive agencies in the U.S. Saunders has a degree from The Ohio State University and about 5 years of experience in interactive marketing for financial services.
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