Buying a car for your family is a big step! And here are a few things to keep in mind to make your decision making process a lot easier.
- Budget- it all starts with how much money you have to spend. You need to choose a car with that in mind. Remember it’s also about the other costs in the picture- cost of the car, the costs that come with the showroom where you see it, the taxes, insurance and registration fees as well. When you see the amount on paper, don’t start and stop with that- think about allied expenses too.
- Pre-owned or brand new- budget will also determine if your car needs to be old or new. An old car that comes with a certification and has been thoroughly checked up and inspected by a mechanic or qualified expert as well as a free car check from Car Check Experts, can be a great fit for your family. In fact, a used car makes a lot of sense because it’s lower in cost and comes with most of the depreciation already done. What’s more, you save on all the showroom costs you may otherwise have to pay on a new vehicle.
- Size of the family- a two- seater works for your partner and you. If it comes with the option of a seat or two, then that’s a winner. If you have a small one and a child, then a mid-size sedan works. It doesn’t have too much of trunk space but it should be okay for the regular day use. A used hyundai santa fe works when you have a larger family and need either an SUV or a minivan. Remember, if you’ll need a car-seat, you must factor that into the space of the vehicle. An SUV is also great because it’s more stable and can work on bad roads too.
- Fuel efficiency-perhaps the biggest element in your decision making process has to be if the vehicle is fuel efficient or not. If you need it for your work commute, or to drop off and pick up kids and go regular trips outside the city, you’ll need something that gives you great mileage. Think more in terms of petrol or gas, rather than diesel. May we also suggest hybrid cars for a short commute. They emit less poisonous gas and have increased efficiency.
- Safety features- safety comes first and always when you’re talking of your loved ones. You have to ensure that the car you choose comes with great safety features- it should be one that has performed well on crash tests, has latches for car-seats for kids and infants, has advanced features in its airbags, comes with antilock brakes and seat belts for everyone. And this is just for starters.
- Get some advice- online forums are a great way to get information because they have tons of members posting and experts weighing in too. Ask people for suggestions and advice- it could be your family members or neighbors. It doesn’t matter- you never know who’ll be able to give you something deeply valuable.
Enjoy time in your new car!