Show Mummy the Money!

17-April-2008

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So you want to buy a car but are scared of being ripped off or told to "Come back with your man"? Don't step foot in a car dealership until you read these insider tips from AutoChic's female auto expert, Juliet Potter.

1) First thing's first: Find out what the fair price is for your dream car at www.redbook.com.au

2) Go car shopping on Sunday afternoons – car salespeople work on weekend number targets and could be desperate for an extra sale. You'll also get more attention. Other good times are Monday and Tuesday mornings and afternoons.

3) Eat before you go to the dealership – you might be there for hours and you want to think clearly (it also avoids accepting those free coffee jitters).

4) Go to the the dealership with a checklist and don't be afraid to get down and dirty by checking the car out (yes, that means looking into the hood with grease the and gunk!). Look for the obvious even if you aren't mechanically minded as there are things to look for, such as excessive wear externally and internally. You know what to look for when buying a home so put that observational ability into car purchasing. And take a friend along, however, don't let them dictate to you. Let you mechanic tell you the good/bad news.

5) Don't enter negotiations with someone who intimidates you. It should be a win-win proposition – not a matter of one person controlling another.

6) Think about your 'poker-face'. Acting too eager and 'in love' with a car can send a message to the seller that they've 'got you' and that they can basically jack the price up and hard-sell you. Then on the other hand, if you don't act eager at all, then maybe they will sell it to someone else who loves it more. Sellers often bump up the price thinking that you will barter it down! So barter it down!

7) Investigate the car's history. Is it stolen? Does is have any outstanding debts on it? Do a security check by calling your state's transport authority (e.g. RTA in NSW, Vic Roads and VIC, etc.) and quoting the car's VIN number, car model and year, rego number, engine number and the state where it was last registered. You can also get a check done at www.checkitout.com.au – an online initative by Transport Queensland. Or check out www.carwise.com.au

8) Barter the price down! There's usually a standard RRP for brand-spanking new cars. Check them out at www.autochic.com.au However, some dealerships may have special deals so shop around! You're pretty much set to trot with a new car, mechanics-and condition-wise, but make sure you ask about warranties (must have!), any extra deals they may have going (e.g. roadside assistance, insurance, etc.) and any hidden costs (e.g. some charge around $300 for metallic paint, etc.).

9) If you're going for a used car, find out the following and bargain the price down accordingly:

* How many kilometres has is done?
* How many services has it had (ask for service history records)?
* How much registration does it have left?
* Is there any damage to the car?
* Are the mechanics in good order? Is there anything that needs to be fixed? Get it checked!

10) And the bottom line? ALWAYS walk out if you don't reach a deal you like. Happy car hunting!