Buying your first car is as exciting as it is overwhelming. Coming to the dealership can be daunting, and there is a lot of negative talk online about buying a new car. To make the journey a little easier, we’ve prepared this short guide on what to bring and expect when you come to the dealership!

New vs. Used: Which Makes More Sense?

Choosing a new or used vehicle is one of the first steps when looking to purchase a vehicle. There are advantages and disadvantages to either option, lets work through them;

Financially, new vehicles tend to have lower interest rates, and a factory warranty. In terms of your safety and comfort, new vehicles have the latest safety and tech features. Not to mention, Ford offers incentives and promotions depending on model and year, making your payment highly competitive. A new car is a great option if you are looking for peace of mind with warranty, and a great interest rate. Of course, not to forget Apple Car Play. 

Looking at new cars increases your flexibility. If you’re looking for a Badlands Bronco Sport with a tech package, in white with a black roof, it will be easier for the dealership to get you the exact vehicle you’re looking for. Even if it’s not on the lot, we can source vehicles from across Ontario, as well as factory order. Your options are expanded with new vs. used. 

Used vehicles are great for some, but not for everyone. It is important to compare the actual cost of ownership, not just the sticker price. Used vehicles tend to have higher interest rates, and give you less options to choose from. If a new vehicle fits your budget, it’s a great first step in your vehicle ownership journey!

Work With a Salesperson You Trust

With all the negative talk online about everything “car buying”, it can be hard to take the first step. Instead of walking into a random dealership, ask your friends and family who they had dealt with in the past. If your parents say “We always buy from Dustin at Polito Ford”, you know who to ask for when you come into the dealership. 

Having a knowledgeable salesperson is important, and having a salesperson your friends and family trust can make all the difference in getting you into the right vehicle, at the right price. When you have good reviews from friends and family, you take some of the pressure off, letting you focus on what is important – your new car! 

Consider Your Lifestyle

Before choosing a vehicle, think about how you’ll actually use it day to day. Your lifestyle should play a major role in narrowing down your options.

Ask yourself questions like:

• Do you commute long distances?
• Will you be driving in harsh winter conditions?
• Do you need extra cargo space for sports equipment, pets, or travel?
• Are fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs important to you?
• Will you need room for passengers or future family plans?
• Are you towing anything?
  • If so, what is the weight, and length? 

Your salesperson will likely ask you these questions, and having an answer ready will make the process easier for you. Getting you into the right vehicle that you love is the salespersons #1 job, and getting to know your lifestyle is an important part of matching you to your first car. 

Know Your Must-Haves

New cars have a lot of very cool features, but do you need all of them? Know what is essential for you to have in your first vehicle, and your salesperson will be able to make sure you get what you need!

Some things to consider are;

• All-wheel drive
• Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
• Backup camera
• Heated seats
• Cargo space
• Towing capability
• Cloth or leather seats
• Fuel consumption

Knowing what you need can help you narrow down which model and trim level you actually need. Ford has an incredible line up of trims and packages, and getting you the perfect vehicle with all the features is easier than you may think. 

Set a Realistic Budget

Your budget should include more than just the payment. Remember operating costs like insurance, fuel, maintenance and winter tires. The difference between SUV’s may not be high, but if you’re looking at diesel vs. gas, your costs look very different. 

Before you start shopping, map out your maximum comfortable bi-weekly or monthly payment. You can share this with your salesperson, it will help them determine the right vehicle for your budget. Putting money down is not required, but recommended. Putting money down will help reduce your payment, and overall cost of the vehicle. 

Final Thoughts

Buying your first vehicle is a big milestone – taking time to stop and think about who you want to talk to, what you actually need, and what will fit in your budget will help your salesperson narrow down the perfect vehicle for you, both now and long-term.