7 steps you might overlook when buying a new car

The pandemic has changed consumer attitudes towards many things in a matter of months. Everything from how we do our grocery shopping to how we get around the city requires a little more consideration than before.

Vancouverites who perhaps never considered buying a car are now exploring their options, reducing reliance on transit and rideshare services. At a time when restrictions are aplenty, having a car allows you the freedom to embark on road trips, discover lush hiking trails, and carry out day-to-day tasks.

A recent survey by Kijiji Autos revealed that the majority of car shoppers (77%) are open to buying now or within the next two to three months. However, it’s important to take your time and consider certain factors before you jump in.

To help simplify the process, we’ve rounded up seven commonly overlooked steps to buying a new car.

Considering your needs

Even though many consumers buy cars to get them from A to B, their personal needs are different, from commuting to work to doing the school run. While you might be tempted to lean towards manufacturers you’re familiar with, it’s more important to assess your needs, and only then look for a vehicle that checks the boxes for size, safety features, fuel efficiency, and comfort.

Making a budget

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It’s easy to look at the listing price of a vehicle and assume that your salary will cover it. But you should consider mapping out your budget with some wiggle room before you sign a financing or leasing agreement. Review the overall cost of ownership of the vehicle and how it compares with monthly repayments, mileage requirements, and whether you’ll want to upgrade in the future. Shop around before you make a decision.

Choosing the right dealership

When you have a car or truck in mind, it’s key to find a dealership that offers the services you need. The pandemic has been a learning curve for all businesses, and dealerships are no exception. Eliot Wallace, general sales manager at Wallace Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick, and GMC, says his team is creating a lot more video content to help customers who are researching online.

“We have seen this has been the most effective way to help people buy a car and keep their distance,” explains Wallace. “Overall, we are coming into a more regular buying habit due to our enhanced safety process in the store.”

Taking a test drive

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The best way to get a feel for a vehicle and discover if it’s the right fit for you is to take it for a test drive around your neighbourhood. This shouldn’t be a ride around the block — take your time and aim for a 45-minute journey in total. To make the most of your time with the dealer, examine the interior, exterior, under the hood, and prepare a list of questions about features, options, and vehicle history.

Like Wallace Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick, and GMC, select dealerships are offering off-site and on-site test drives. Wallace says customers are now more comfortable visiting the dealership because it is taking safety precautions with masks, cleaning protocols, and social distancing measures.

Ordering ahead

Panic-buying a car if a dealership doesn’t have the model you want in stock is not a good move. To avoid this, place an order for the vehicle you’re looking for. Wallace explains that many dealerships currently have low inventory due to production delays. “Selection is limited, and we still do have good products on the ground and some coming. But if you are very specific to what you want, look at factory order now if you want a vehicle this fall.”

Negotiating a deal

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Although a vehicle listing price may read “$20K,” that doesn’t mean negotiation is off the table. To negotiate effectively, start by researching comparable vehicles and pricing and go into your appointment with an understanding of how the year, model, and warranty impact the price. Contact a dealer through the Kijiji Autos app and make an informed offer — without lowballing — to get the best deal.

Submitting paperwork

Going through all of the paperwork that comes with buying a new car often feels like a massive task, but it’s essential. During the ongoing crisis, you can do almost everything online, including applying for financing, insurance, and registering your car (through a dealership). Here in Ontario, the provincial government has also approved the renewal of driver’s licences and licence plate stickers online, making it easy to organize everything from your sofa.

When you start shopping for a vehicle via Kijiji Autos, you’ll notice featured dealers are offering services to simplify your car-buying journey, such as including home delivery of your new ride. To start exploring your options, download the Kijiji Autos app on the App Store or Google Play.