What advice do you have for someone buying a car?

2018-02-26T10:52:58-05:00

Response by SPC David Willis made Feb 26 at 2018 11:10 AM

2018-02-26T11:10:04-05:00

Don't buy a car near a military post. Never hurts to take someone with you as well. Also watch the interest rate, I recommend not doing anything over 10% and even that's a little high. Finally don't get a 7 year loan on a vehicle that's more than a year old. If you ever need to dump it or total it after an accident the value may not be high enough to pay off the loan.

Response by SPC Joseph Wojcik made Feb 26 at 2018 11:19 AM

2018-02-26T11:19:19-05:00

Don't go to a dealership within 30 miles of an installation. If you'll be living in the barracks, you can put off buying a car for a few months and save up some extra cash.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2018 11:35 AM

2018-02-26T11:35:25-05:00

PFC Private RallyPoint Member This is a major purchase. Take your time and do your research. Look at as many cars so you can until you find the right car at a price you want to pay.

https://www.moneycrashers.com/how-to-buy-car-tips/

How to Buy a Car - 15 Essential Tips to Get the Best Deal

In the market for a new car? Read these 15 important tips first to get the best deal on a reliable car you'll love.

Response by TSgt David L. made Feb 26 at 2018 3:22 PM

2018-02-26T15:22:51-05:00

As has already been said, try to avoid the car lots right off of post/base. E-3 and below with a steady income are those crooks wet dream. And, watch the interest rate. As said 10% is high but don't go over that. That said, lot financing is a rip-off. Use your credit union.
As a mechanic, I recommend taking someone along that knows a spark plug from an 02 sensor. Even if they don't know much, it's somebody to keep you grounded and talk you out of something stupid. Plus the salesman generally don't know Jack about cars so having your "expert" along often keeps them from talking the car up more than they normally would.
If you find the right ride, you and your "expert" need to side bar often and "discuss" the price. They will always come down.
Do your homework though. Use your phone and check KBB.com or NADA.com. Use which ever one the lot and the credit union does does. Run the condition, options and miles and know what the car is worth. They always come out on top so don't be afraid to talk them down.
Be carefull and good luck!

Response by Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 27 at 2018 5:57 AM

2018-02-27T05:57:05-05:00

Always know when to walk away. If you are having seconds thoughts it’s probably your gut telling you “not today, man.”. If it’s meant to be, it’s meant to be.