| Roadmap to Car Shopping for Girls
Roadmap to Car Shopping for Girls
by Emily Chew
Get respect and value in your next car-buying experience
Most women—single moms, businesswomen, homemakers and retirees alike—find car buying to be a stressful experience. Equip yourself with these tips and resources on car buying and car maintenance to be a savvy, satisfied and empowered car-owning woman.
Essential Steps to a Positive Car Buying Experience for Every Woman
· Budget
· Do Online Research
· Understand the Cash for Clunkers Program
· Test Drive Thoroughly
· Compare Options
· Control Negotiations
BUDGET
If the economic climate has taught us anything, it’s the importance of planning. As a career woman, that means in-depth research and budgeting to determine value of purchasing a car.
· Establish a monthly payment to fit your budget
· Find a vehicle’s True Market Value (average price other buyers are paying for the same car in your area)
SET PRIORITIES AND DO ONLINE RESEARCH
Indianapolis dealership owner Gary Pedigo agrees women want a car that is safe, reliable and protected by warranty for the lowest possible monthly payment. Many want features that add functionality and enjoyment, such as Bluetooth for cell phones, USB ports for iPods and navigation systems.
You may be eyeing that sleek, red speedster, but you may need to wait a little longer. If you want to make a smart buy, let your needs—not your wants—drive your decision.
Consider:
· Family size
· Main type of driving
· Length of commute
· Gas mileage
· Manual or automatic transmission
· Need for four-wheel/all-wheel drive
· Safety features
· Cargo capacity
· Towing needs
Knowledge is power. Do good research to quell your fears and insecurities about car buying. Get online to:
· Determine makes and models that interest you
· Compare features and price of different makes and models
· Contact dealers via email
Auto dealers like Tom Wood Ford realize the power of information. And they realize the power of women car buyers “in the driver’s seat.” According to Chris Matchett at Tom Wood, “We want our female car shoppers to know we’re here to answer questions and help them get the most of their car buying dollar. They’re important to us.”
TEST DRIVE
The fun part is getting behind the wheel. To ensure the most productive and enjoyable test drivning experience:
· Assert that you are visiting the dealership only to inspect and not to buy
· Try an auto mall to test-drive many of your options on the same day and on the same route
· Map your route ahead of time to ensure you experience various traffic situations, different types of roads, and contrasting driving surfaces.
Sit in the driver's seat and look at:
· Adjust seats and check seatbelt
· Check headrest position
· Adjust steering wheel, check driving position and note visibility
· Check controls and displays and inspect storage spaces
· Listen to audio system and try electronics: navigation system, Bluetooth, voice controls
· Operate sunroof or soft top
· Ride comfort
· Acceleration
· Braking
· Steering and handling
· Quietness
· Visibility
NEGOTIATION
There’s no need to feel powerless or intimidated by the negotiation process. Don’t you negotiate in your job sometimes? You’re a working woman, and you know the value of a dollar! When you’ve narrowed your field of options, use these tips to begin negotiating.
· Provide each dealership with your wish list of options
· Never disclose your budget
· Compare quotes to confirm everything is included
You’ll get a better deal if you crunch the numbers yourself before you go to the dealership.
· Decide on your maximum down payment and monthly auto loan payment
· Determine lowest figure for your trade-in
· Look at the TMV for fair selling price for the car
· Write down all figures so you can negotiate a deal to limit your expenses in the same way the dealer tries to maximize his profit
REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE
The up-keep requirements of car ownership can be such a pain. If you prepare by getting the information up front, car maintenance will be more convenient and less expensive.
“Find a local mechanic you can trust and you won’t have to fuss with any of the "extras" that sometimes come with dealerships and chains,” advises recent car buyer Kate Hirt. “When in doubt, get a second opinion. You can double check just about anything online—even car repair needs!”
It’s kind of like networking! We all do that!
· Seek Personal Referrals
· Follow a Maintenance Schedule
· Look for Certifications and Seals of Approval
· Consult Consumer Advice Groups
· Get Second Opinions and Online Crosschecks
RESOURCES for Car Shopping for Girls!
Maintenance and Repairs
Buyers Guides
Beware:
· Hidden charges, questionable options or important items omitted.
· Being shuffled between salespeople
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