What to Pay Attention to When Buying a Car from a Dealership?
3 Answers
When buying a car from a dealership, pay attention to inspecting the body paint, checking the vehicle identification plate, and examining the windshield. Below are detailed considerations: Inspecting the body paint: Check for scratches, spots, dents, and wear on the paint. Observe under ample sunlight to see if there are any color discrepancies. Open the car door and push or pull it from several angles to let light shine from different directions, checking if the sheet metal is even and if there are any signs of repairs. Checking the vehicle identification plate: The vehicle identification plate is located on the side of the driver's door or in the engine compartment. Pay attention to whether the manufacturing date is too far in the past. If the time exceeds half a year, the car is likely a stock vehicle or a test-drive car. Examining the windshield: The number represents the most recent production year, and the dots represent the production month. If the dots are on the left side of the number, it indicates production in the first half of the year. Subtract the number of black dots from 7 to determine the specific year.
When I go to a dealership to buy a car, my top priority is managing the budget. As an average-income family person, I first set an overall price limit, including the car price, purchase tax, insurance, license fees, and potential loan costs. Online price comparison is crucial—I check the market average to avoid dealership overquoting. For loans, I carefully review interest rates and repayment plans, not just focusing on low monthly payments but calculating the total interest. Sometimes dealerships promote special offers, but I always clarify hidden fees like documentation fees, delivery fees, or inspection fees, demanding everything be written into the contract. It’s also wise to reserve some money for future maintenance, as oil changes and tire replacements can be costly, helping avoid financial strain and ensuring a stress-free post-purchase life. If opting for a used car, extra caution is needed regarding depreciation—check the vehicle’s age and maintenance records to prevent impulsive decisions from becoming burdens.
As a car enthusiast, I place great emphasis on test drives and physical inspections. When selecting a vehicle, I first research the model's performance parameters online. Upon arriving at the dealership, I proactively request a road test to experience whether the acceleration is smooth, the braking response is quick, and if there are any unusual noises during steering—these are all signals of hidden issues. I pop the hood to check if the fluid colors and levels are normal and if there's any battery corrosion; I walk around the body to look for scratches or rust, ensuring the paint is even; I sit inside to test the air conditioning (both hot and cold), the sound system, and whether all the lighting systems work. For used cars, I always check the vehicle history report using the VIN to verify any accidents or flood damage, and I even bring along a car-savvy friend or hire a mechanic to inspect the mechanical components. Only by doing this can I purchase a reliable, genuine car that I can drive with full confidence, avoiding any post-purchase troubles.
