How Not to Buy a Car

As someone who considers herself a savvy consumer, I am amused and perplexed by the fact that I just broke all of the most obvious rules with respect to my recent car purchase. Rather than do all those actions that constitute intelligent car purchasing, I violated each of those rules in the following manner:

Shop around. I went to one car dealer, listened to what they had to say and persuaded myself that they were probably typical of all car dealers. In a time where car purchases are more difficult than in times past, it's a good idea to shop around, both in person and on the web. If your credit is sound, you'll be warmly welcomed and have the ability to conduct thorough comparative shopping.

Be prepared. In no way did I do this. The car that I was trading was dirty and equipped with all of my possessions, complete with aged cassettes, keys to lives of the past and water bottles that were probably among the first that were issued. Knowing that it is very likely that you will be using your existing car as a bargaining tool for the purchase, make certain that you will get as much as possible for it by cleaning it and making it attractive.

Negotiate. In retrospect, I simply signed on the dotted line. Don't confuse that with buyer's remorse because there is none. But I can't help but imagine different consequences (and a smaller car payment) had I been more steadfast. Don't allow fear of losing your perfect car drive your judgment. If the car you seek is not available at this moment, it can still be found.

Conduct research. Know what your preferred brand looks like, feels like, drives like and costs. Check the inventory in your state for available cars in the model and color you want. This is potentially a negotiation tool. In general, know what you're doing. Know what the various options will do to your car's cost and determine in advance which of those options are useful and/or required. Determine in advance how much money you can and want to hand the dealer, not because you want to lead with that information but because it provides more leverage for you.

Please understand that I am not a car expert nor did I consult with a consumer advocacy or other agency. I know how to change oil, put air in my tires, add water and anti-freeze and add to the windshield cleaner. Beyond that, I'm content with being just a car owner. These are strictly the lessons learned from my recent purchase and my realizations after all was resolved. I hope that they provide an opportunity for preparation. Happy purchasing and even happier driving.