If you’re considering buying a car, there are three big questions to ask yourself: What do you want to use the car for? Where will it be used? And what’s in your budget?
This post breaks down these three major factors in an easy-to-understand way. It’ll help clear any confusion, empower you to make the right choice, and hopefully save some money on your purchase.
Actknw has some more best guides for car buyers. Check out our guide if you’re looking for more information!
What do you want to use the car for?
Is it for work? The difference between a sedan and a truck can be significant, so this is one of the most important things to consider. If you’re not sure what you need, check out our buying guide on what kind of car suits your lifestyle best – it covers the basics, like space and comfort, but also has specifics on how each mode of transport will fare in your daily commute.
If it’s primarily for convenience, consider a small maybe-medium crossover/SUV. These vehicles are generally safe to drive around town, but they don’t have enough space for everyone or everything you might need. These models are small, easy to park, and will get the job done. If you’re looking for something that can haul more people or gear, try an SUV or minivan.
Is it for all-terrain purposes?
A vehicle with off-roading capabilities is more versatile than you’d think. Not only will it be easier to drive in the mountains, but it’ll make your life on the street easier too. The more powerful engines will also make driving in bad weather a breeze, plus, they’ll handle jumps better than sedans!
Whether you’re on rocky cliffs or on city streets, having a car that can endure nature’s elements is a huge advantage. You might pay a bit more, but you’ll be happy you did.
If it’s for family, you’re going to need space. Lots of space. Our guide provides all the specifics on how cars stack up to each other in this regard.
The details are small, but they make a big difference when your kids are involved – things like folding seats can make or break your road trip! If you’re looking for something that can do it all, consider an SUV with third-row seating and lots of features designed for families.
Where will it be used?
If you’re going to have a car, you’ll need a place to park it. If you’re going to buy a new car, find out about the parking situation at your home or work before you commit. Are there a lot of street spots available?
Can you get a spot in the garage? Would an electric vehicle make better use of limited spots? Check out our guide for more information on what kind of parking situation works best for your needs.
Are there restrictions imposed by your apartment or office building?
In some cases, these restrictions can include everything from specific makes and models to how many seats the car has, if this applies to you, check with management before buying.
Will it be driven on city streets or highways? Depending on where you live, there may be one type of road that takes up more of your time than another – give yourself an edge by choosing a car that works best for the roads you travel the most.
When will it be used?
Do you want something to take to work every day, or do you want to use your car for special occasions? We’re not just talking about how many miles you’ll put on your ride – we mean how often you’ll drive it. If your car is going to sit around all weekend, it doesn’t need to have as much power or storage space as something that’s driven every day.
You should also consider whether or not your vehicle will be used in multiple seasons. If you live in a place that has snowy winters, you’ll want to get a car that can handle all weather conditions , and that includes checking its tire tread and bringing it in for maintenance if necessary. Similarly, if you live in hotlands like Florida, air conditioning will be an important factor to consider when choosing your ride.
Finally, if you’re buying a car for your kids, it’s important to consider how old they are. Most parents don’t plan for their children to reach driving age until they’re about 17 years old – but it’s possible that you’ll find yourself with someone else’s teenage driver by then!
What is in your budget?
Your budget defines the most important part of the decision-making process. If you don’t have one sorted out, then any other factors that would factor into your choice will be meaningless.
The price of the car isn’t the only thing that matters (although it is the biggest factor). You’ll also need to consider how much you’re willing to pay for gas, insurance, maintenance, and repairs. Add up your budget for each of these factors, and make sure it’s enough to afford what you want! If you don’t think your budget is enough for the car you want most (which is completely fine!), check out our guide on ways to make your dollars go further.
