Although it can be very exciting to find yourself at a dealership buying a car, there is definitely some waiting involved. When you are in the process of buying a car, it’s not like you’re going to McDonalds to get a burger and you’re in and out.
The car buying process often involves arranging financing, registering the car, and signing sales contracts. New car buyers spend half a workday in dealerships in 2011 - about 4.3 hours according to a recent J.D. Power and Associates U.S. Sales Satisfaction Index. Make the process go smoothly by bringing the following:
- No surprises. Be on board with how much your make and model of car is going to cost to insure. Learn what the timetable is for informing your insurance agent about your new car. Not being proactive enough and not getting this information ahead of time can be costly.
- Talk to your bank or credit union and get preapproved for a loan you’ll need. By getting pre approved, you will know the total loan amount and the interest rate you qualify for. If you’re preapproved, even if you’re planning on going through the dealer for financing, you’re less likely to see a longer term or higher interest rate.
- Be careful about credit inquiries. While the general rule is any amount of inquiries within 2 weeks counts as one entry, some consumers have had their credit scores dropped as a result of multiple auto loan inquiries.
- Bring your driver’s license and proof of auto insurance with you. Seems obvious, most people do not get into a car without the two documents, but in the excitement sometimes we forget.
- A down payment. Be sure you have a way of funding your down payment. If it’s not cash, make sure the dealer accepts the form of payment you’re planning to use. It is a good idea to call beforehand and make sure they accept a personal check or credit card payment. Phone first.
If you plan to trade your car in, be prepared for a little more paperwork.
You will need
- the car’s certificate of title
- the car’s current registration
- all your car keys and the owner’s manual
With all your documents in order you will be more proactive, ultimately putting you in the driver’s seat.
At Expressway Dodge we have a strong and committed sales staff with many years of experience satisfying our customers' needs. Feel free to browse our inventory online, request more information about vehicles, and set up a test drive or inquire about financing!
Call us (888) 508-6421.
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