Working for Kelley Blue Book has given me certain insights into the automotive world that, if twisted far enough, could be applied across the entire spectrum of life. In the pursuit of finding the right husband or wife, for instance, many people get too caught up using all the wrong considerations. It's too easy to make a decision based on looks alone. Down that road lies trouble to be sure. Sadly, it happens all the time. This kind of shallow process of elimination causes unnecessary strain on relationships. So, to help mitigate some common mistakes people make, it would be helpful to compare the task of finding a spouse to shopping for a car. I've prepared a few questions an in-market shopper should ask him or herself as well as a few tips that any 'singular sensation' can use to find the perfect companion.
1. Do I prefer domestic or import brands? I'm not going to lie, when I lived in South Carolina, I caught a little bit of the jungle fever. But the feeling passed when I came back to the west coast. Don't get me wrong. I'm not knocking the imports. Every manufacture has produced their share of lemons. Just do your homework.
2. Do I want new or used? Both have their own strengths and weaknesses. Some people love the new car smell. Others prefer the tried and true. It's probably best to just keep this an open question.
3. Do I prefer a soft ride, a firm ride or something in-between? We're talking size here people. Some cars have a lot to love. Others could use a little more padding in the seat. If you're looking in the classifieds, only go for the ones with pictures so there's no surprise.
4. How important is power/performance? I'll dispense with the commentary on this one.
5. What kind of gas mileage is acceptable? If you're afraid you won't be able to flip the bill for a guzzling behemoth, you may consider a more economical compact model.
6. How about safety? This is important. Does it come with perforated ceramic F&R disc brakes that'll keep you out of any trouble you may otherwise get yourself into? Newer drivers and other accident prone may also consider the availability of blind-spot alert, stability control and other similar features.
7. How do the controls feel? Are they responsive, or do they control you... You may need a third party opinion on this one.
8. Is the road noise too much to handle? There is no solution to this problem. Ear plugs are awkward and iPods make you disconnected. Don't even waste time trying to fix it. If it's too noisy on the lot, it'll be even noisier in 20 years. Just move on.
9. What are the available options and packages? If you're the outdoorsy type, look for an off-road package. Live life in the fast lane? Look for performance tires. Feel lost all the time? Splurge for the GPS. Some manufactures keep things simple by not even offering optional equipment. Also, mixing and matching usually doesn't work out very well. Don't buy an Escalade for the bling and expect to turn it into a Prius.
10. Is the trunk full of baggage? If so, is it unsightly? There's nothing inherently wrong with baggage as long as you realize it's standard equipment that cannot be omitted for a discounted rate.
It is important to remember the value of a test drive. Never, I repeat, never purchase anything you haven't already taken around the block a few times. You know the saying it's okay to window shop as long as you don't sample the merchandise? That only applies AFTER you have made a purchase. Get to know the product, are the controls too confusing? Are all the lights working? These things matter. There are just too many things you'll never notice if you don't regularly test drive your options. And try not to let the salesman go with you.
Most dealers accommodate test drives like these, though some will make you sign a waver and/or imply litigation supposing you caused some kind of accident. This should not deter you given this is one of the most important purchases you will ever make. If the dealer is too threatening, remember, the dealership comes with the car. You may wish to shop elsewhere.
Cost is not an issue here. Don't be a price Nazi. Once you find what you want, be willing to pay out the nose for it. In fact, pay double for good measure. Dealerships remember good customers and reward them richly with great financing options and discounted service rates.
In the state of California, there is no "cooling off period." This means once you sign the contract, that's it. Even if you change your mind or find a bunch of things you didn't notice before. Tough, bub. Know your local laws. It'll save you lots of grief.
Follow these guidelines and you may just find the perfect catch. Don't follow these guidelines and you may just get exactly what you deserve. Happy hunting!
