How to Buy a New Car

Couple picking up new car from lot

If you’re wondering about how to buy a new car or when to buy a new car in Niagara, you’re in the right place. While it’s not too complex, the car buying process isn’t straightforward either. Read the Performance Mercedes-Benz guide, and if you’re confused about anything, consult our car buying tips, or simply get in touch with our finance department.

When to Buy a New Car

If you’re wondering how to buy a new car, one of the first things you should consider is when to buy a new car. Niagara-on-the-Lake drivers should approach this factor from many angles:

  1. If you’re spending money on repairs at an alarming rate, and you’re worried that you may spend the amount it would take to finance a new car, it’s time to jump ship.
  2. If you’ve felt unsafe driving your car because its vital systems continue to have issues cropping up on the road, it’s time.
  3. Have your needs changed considerably? Are you driving that sports car you bought in college when you have a baby on the way? It might be time to upgrade to a sporty crossover with more space and family-friendly features.
  4. If your car is failing emissions tests, it may cost you less to finance a new one than it will to get your vehicle up to snuff.

How to Find Your Ideal New Car

Pelham drivers now know when to buy a new car, but the “how” of “how to buy a new car” involves determining a number of things, including:

  1. Your Needs: Consider both what you like (i.e.: performance) as well as what you need (passenger space for the family). Then identify what segment speaks most clearly to both.
  2. Your Options: Pick 3 models from that segment based on safety, reliability, and critical ratings. Then test-drive each to see how it handles on St. Catharines streets.
  3. Your Budget: Once you’ve picked the right model for you, reach out to several dealers to get price quotes. See if you can leverage those quotes to get a great deal.
  4. Your Timeline: Then consider any holidays that are coming up. Holidays are often accompanied by sales events. Determine if it is possible for you to wait a month for the sale.

How to Afford a New Car

According to U.S. News, your car payment should not put your monthly debts–including credit cards, student loans, rent, etc.–over a third of your monthly income. To make sure that you don’t jeopardize your budget, remember to add the following to the MSRP. Don’t forget to scour your dealer’s site to get an idea of what types of dealer handling and destination fees are included with the base price as well.

  • New Car Sales Tax: Find out what this tax-rate is in your state, and remember, it’s non-negotiable.
  • Interest Rate: Your interest rate will affect your monthly payments and varies depending upon your credit score, your loan term, and how much you put down.
  • Trade-in Value: On a more positive note, don’t forget to factor in the value of your trade-in. That can drastically reduce the overall price of your next car.

Test Drive Your Next Car at Performance Mercedes-Benz in St Catharines

If you have any more questions about how to buy a new car or when to buy a new car, please reach out. Our financiers will happily clear up any lingering confusion you might have, like “how to sell a car at a dealership.” While you’re here, be sure to check out some of our other guides related to the car shopping process, including our overview on deciding “whether to buy or to lease.” We look forward to helping you make an informed and smart investment. While you’re here, take a moment to learn about liability insurance and GAP insurance!

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