We can’t even recall the time when car wasn’t a necessity. With the changing lifestyle and our dire need for a fast life, we can’t deny the fact that cars are a basic necessity. As fascinating as buying a car seems, isn’t an easy task. We’ve all heard that a little knowledge is dangerous and that buying a car just because you want to without considering what your car is worth calculator doesn’t sound like a very intelligent thing to do. Here are a few pointers to look at before you get out to get that baby home.

• Take a look at your pocket:

The first and foremost thing to consider before heading out is to decide on a budget. No necessity implies that you rob yourself off. You need to make sure that the EMI doesn’t cost you more than 15% of your income and while you are at it, include your insurance bill with it. It’s a great thing to buy a car but not a good idea if it digs a hole in your pocket.

• Financing:

Before you decide to get behind the wheel make sure you have decided on your financing options like a loan, lease or cash. Nothing is more important than being sure about the money. Nothing comes for free and it’s very important to think twice before spending your hard earned money.

• Trade-in value:

This is another important factor to consider as none of us like to keep using our old cars for more than a decade, you always want to sell the old and buy a new. If you want to be open to this option do check the trade-in value of your car. You should always know what it is worth.

• Test-drives:

It goes without saying that one must check the prices from different dealers and at what price your dealer got the car but it’s always a great idea to take more than one test-drives. No one is going to question you for wanting to take another test drive, after all it’s a huge decision to make. Take a test drive yourself and bring your family for another, this way you will have a fair idea if the car is a right choice for you or not.

• Technicalities:

Make sure you are clear about the technicalities and know about your car. The mileage, tyres and speed, everything plays a very important role. You should always have an idea about the engine and if the car checks the criteria you had in mind. Do a thorough inspection and don’t miss out on anything.

Buying a car isn’t an easy task and taking care of your car and making sure that it runs smooth is another work load. From the pricing to the dealer and the efficiency of the engine to the tyres, everything matters. Don’t take this decision in a hurry.