What to Pay Attention to When Buying a Car for the First Time?

[Brielle]

Here are the precautions for first-time car buyers: 1. Inspect the vehicle condition: Park the car in an outdoor area with ample light to observe the body paint, ensuring there are no scratches or wear, the paint is even, and appears translucent under sunlight reflection. Open the car door—the vehicle identification plate is located near the driver's side door or B-pillar—check the relevant information on the plate. Open the engine compartment to inspect if it is clean, free of dirt or dust buildup, and check if the engine oil and other fluids are at adequate levels. Manually check if the doors open and close smoothly, if the windows roll up and down properly, if there are any strong odors inside the car, if the air conditioning cools, if the windshield wipers function normally, and if the lights turn on correctly. 2. Test drive: Start the engine to feel if it idles smoothly, if there is noticeable noise inside the car, and if the steering wheel vibrates significantly. 3. Check documents: Ensure all relevant vehicle documents are complete, such as the purchase invoice, certificate of conformity, vehicle type approval certificate, vehicle registration certificate, warranty certificate, vehicle user manual, and new car delivery confirmation form.

[MatteoRose]

I think the most important thing to pay attention to when buying a car for the first time is the money issue. I initially exceeded my budget, and later realized that there's more to consider than just the car price. First, calculate how much down payment you can afford, then compare interest rates from banks or lenders—don't just be tempted by low down payments. Monthly payments should be kept within 20% of your income; otherwise, the combined costs of insurance, fuel, and maintenance will become overwhelming. I recommend choosing a new car or a certified pre-owned vehicle for the peace of mind that comes with a warranty. Test-driving multiple times is crucial to get a feel for the driving experience—don’t rush into a purchase. Also, don’t forget to check insurance costs, as they vary significantly between cars. Finally, don’t be swayed by sales tactics—stick to your budget limits. Buying a car is a marathon, not a sprint; make sure it doesn’t disrupt your daily life.

[MacAugust]

For me, buying a car starts with performance and safety—after all, driving comfort is crucial. I prioritize whether the engine's power is sufficient; small-displacement cars save fuel but may accelerate slowly, especially on highways or when carrying passengers. Safety systems can't be overlooked—check for basic features like ABS, airbags, and rear parking sensors, as most new cars now come with driver-assistance functions. I test-drove several times before finding the right one, balancing comfort and handling, such as seat support and steering wheel weight. Space is also key—if it's for family use, the trunk should fit luggage; for singles, a compact model is enough. Don’t forget to consider fuel consumption and maintenance costs—daily commuting with high fuel consumption can be a headache. Before buying, check owner forums for real reviews to avoid problematic models.

[PatrickMarie]

For my first car purchase, I think it should be simple and not too complicated. What I care about most is whether the car is easy to drive and convenient for daily maintenance. Choosing a reputable brand like Toyota or Honda is a good idea, as these cars have service centers everywhere, and parts are cheap and easy to find. Don't just focus on the appearance of a new car; take it for a test drive to see if the clutch is smooth, the brakes are responsive, and the air conditioning works well. I suggest buying a new car for convenience, avoiding the potential issues of used cars. Leave some extra money in your budget for sudden expenses like annual inspections, car washes, or minor repairs. The size of the car should depend on its intended use—if you often pick up kids or go shopping, a bigger one might be better. Don't rush when buying a car; take a couple of days to think it over and talk to friends for advice to avoid pitfalls.