10 Smart Moves to Make Before You Buy Your Next Car
10 Smart Moves to Make Before You Buy Your Next Car
Posted on May 22, 2025
Did you know that most people overpay by thousands on their car purchase? Let’s make sure that’s not you. Whether it's your first time buying or upgrading to a new vehicle, the process of choosing your new ride can come with challenges. In this post, we are giving you the top 10 tips to help you buy a car like a pro. From budgeting and test-driving to negotiating like you mean it, consider this your go-to buying cheat sheet.
Tip #1: Know Your Budget (and stick to it)
Start by setting a realistic budget that includes:
- The vehicle’s price
- Taxes and fees
- Insurance
- Maintenance costs
Tip #2: Understand Your Needs vs. Wants
Ask yourself:
- What’s the vehicle for?
- How many passengers do you usually have?
- Do you need AWD for winters? Create a must-haves and nice-to-haves
Tip #3: Do Your Research Like a Pro
Before stepping into a lot:
- Compare makes and models online
- Read reviews and reliability reports
- Check fuel economy and long term value
Tip #4: Decide: New or Used?
Both have pros and cons
- New cars come with full warranty and peace of mind
- Used cars are cheaper
Tip #5: Check Vehicle History
Always get a vehicle history report (Carfax)
- Accidents
- Number of previous owners
- Title Issues/Liens
- Maintenance records
Tip #6: Inspect and Test Drive
- Walk around the vehicle, check for damage, tire condition, etc.
- Test drive in various conditions (highway, streets)
- Listen for strange noises and test all tech/features
Tip #7: Don’t Skip the Inspection
Tip #8: Know the Market Value
Use sites such as AutoTrader to find the fair price of the car. Walk informed so you know what’s reasonable.
Tip #9: Negotiate with Confidence
Negotiation isn’t about being aggressive, it’s about being informed. Be polite, but don’t be afraid to:
- Point out flaws or missing features
- Walk away if the deal feels wrong
Tip #10: Double Check the Paperwork
Before signing:
- Read all documents carefully
- Clarify fees (admin, delivery, documentation)
- Make sure everything you agreed on is in writing
Buying a car, new or used, doesn’t have to feel like a gamble. With a bit of planning, the right mindset, and the 10 tips outlined, you are more than ready to hit the lot with confidence. Still have questions or want help finding the perfect ride? Reach out to our team at Onyx Motors. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.