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Originally Posted On: https://www.gatesauto.com/5-mistakes-to-avoid-making-when-shopping-at-columbus-ford-wi-dealerships/
Are you interested in buying a used vehicle for sale in Wisconsin? Do you have an interest in shopping at a local Columbus Ford WI dealership for your new car? If so, then you need to learn about the mistakes to avoid.
Even one slip–up on your end can put you at risk of buying a car that isn’t in your best interests. The dealer might try to take advantage of your lack of knowledge or lack of a proper budget.
See below for the several mistakes you should avoid when shopping at a Ford dealer in Racine WI, or anywhere else in the area.
1. Not Having a Proper Budget
We hinted at this one in the introduction. As with any car purchase, you should always have pricing on your mind as you shop around.
The worst thing that you can do is arrive at the lot of a Columbus Ford WI dealership without an understanding of your budget. Doing so can put you at risk of buying a car that’s too far out of your price range.
Start creating a budget by subtracting your current monthly expenses from your monthly income. Be sure to factor in things such as car insurance for your new vehicle, as well as a down payment. Experts recommend you aim for a minimum of 20-percent on the car.
Having a budget will hold you accountable as you shop around. You’ll have a firm understanding of which cars you can afford and which ones are outside your price range.
Make sure that you avoid another costly mistake, which is letting the car dealer toy with different aspects of your financing.
For example, they might try to extend the life of your car loan from 60 months to 72 months to make the monthly payments appear lower. A 72-month loan is a good situation for some, but you’ll generally want to stick with a shorter loan period.
2. Getting Too Fixated on One Model
We understand that shopping at a Ford dealership in Racine WI has its shiny objects. You might be tempted to look at the newest Mustang or the newest tricked-out trim level of the Ford F-150.
However, developing tunnel vision while car shopping can set a dangerous precedent. Car salesmen of lesser integrity will quickly catch on to your fixation with one particular model, then hold it against you during negotiations, giving you less bang for your buck.
It can also cause you to overlook other options that might be a better fit. For example, instead of investing in the expensive new F-150, you might be able to find a great mid-sized truck that fills your needs.
Getting too focused on one model can also limit your options for car dealers. You might miss out on a great used car lot because you were too focused on one model.
Here at Gates Auto, you’ll find amazing used cars and trucks available in our inventory. We have great relationships with local dealers and invest in high-quality used vehicles for you to choose from.
3. Not Looking at the Car History Report
We’ve all seen those commercials with that clever little fox asking the car salesman for a credit history report. You should view him as a role model during your own car search.
This is especially important while shopping for used vehicles. It can help you understand where the car was before the lot you found it on, as well as ensure that the car hasn’t been salvaged or junked.
Car history reports can help you learn more about things such as:
– Ownership history
– Details about your vehicle
– Up-to-date odometer check
– Any open safety recalls out on the car
– Junk, salvage, or insurance records
– Information on the car’s title history
All of this information can help you make an informed decision. Of course, finding cars with a clean history is also accomplished by working with reputable Columbus Ford WI dealerships, such as Gates Auto.
4. Not Researching Beforehand
Do you know anything about the Columbus Ford WI dealership that you’re about to step foot on? You want to make sure you’re doing business with the best.
Take the time to research beforehand. Visit the dealership’s website. Browse their inventory. Do they have a variety of makes and models for you to try? Do they offer credit history reports?
How does the car dealership get its inventory? As we mentioned earlier, we at Gates Auto only purchase vehicles from trusted dealerships in the area.
5. Not Paying Attention During the Test Drive
Contrary to popular belief, a test drive isn’t just a complimentary ride that car dealerships give out of the kindness of their hearts. It’s a legitimate part of the sales process.
Thorough test drives are crucial for any car you’re looking to purchase. Whether new or used, you need to pay attention to many aspects of the car.
First, look at the quality of the interior. Is it well kept? Does it have any noticeable scratches or tears in the fabric?
Make sure to pay attention to the car’s performance as well. How does it handle? Does the car’s ignition stall at all? How does it feel when the car sits idle?
Find a Reputable Columbus Ford WI Dealership Today
Now that you have seen an in-depth guide on the mistakes you should avoid when shopping at a Columbus Ford WI dealership, be sure to use it to your advantage.
Start by reading this article for more information on bad credit car loans in Wisconsin and how you can drive away happy.
For more inquiries, please be sure to reach out via our contact us page and we will be happy to assist you further.