Buying your first car is an exciting moment full of expectations. But before you start searching for ads on "mobile", it's important to approach it with an informed mind. The wrong choice can lead to unexpected costs and disappointments. In this article, we'll walk you through the entire process – from setting a budget to the final purchase, so you can make the best choice for you.
Set your budget – realistically!
Before you start looking at cars, you need to know exactly how much you can afford. It's not just about the price of the car. Include the following expenses in your budget:
Purchase price: How much are you willing to pay for the car itself?
Registration and taxes: Government fees, transfer fees, eco tax (if you are buying an older car).
Insurance: Civil liability is mandatory. Casco is recommended, especially for newer cars. Check out different offers!
Maintenance: Budget for initial maintenance (oil changes, filters, belts) and future repairs.
Fuel: How often will you drive and how much fuel will the car consume?
Taxes and vignettes: Annual tax and vignette.
Tip: Set aside at least 15-20% of the purchase price for initial costs and unforeseen repairs.
Ask yourself the important questions: What will I use the car for?
Daily driving: Only to work and back? Will you be traveling long distances?
Parking: Do you have easy access to parking? A large SUV can be difficult to maneuver in urban conditions.
Passengers and luggage: Will you be transporting family or friends frequently? Do you need a large trunk?
Road type: Mostly city driving, country driving, or dirt roads?
Fuel consumption: Do you prioritize economy?
The answers to these questions will guide you towards certain car classes – compact city cars, hatchbacks, sedans, station wagons, or SUVs.
Choose an engine and fuel type. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages
Gasoline: Typically cheaper to buy, quieter, and better suited for short city trips. Fuel consumption may be higher outside the city.
Diesel: More economical on long distances, with higher torque. Usually more expensive to maintain, especially if they have a DPF filter and dual-mass flywheel. Not the best choice for mainly city driving.
Gas/Methane (LPG/CNG): The most economical fuel option, but requires an initial investment in a gas system and additional maintenance. The trunk is reduced.
Hybrid/Electric: More expensive to buy, but extremely economical and environmentally friendly. Requires access to a charging station. Maintenance may be lower for electric cars.
New or used?
New car: Full warranty, latest technology, no hidden defects. But it loses the most value in the first few years (depreciation).
Used car: More affordable, less depreciation. But it carries risks of hidden defects and requires a more thorough inspection.
Used tip: Check the service history, have it inspected by a trusted repair shop, check for corrosion and signs of impact.
Basic things to check during an inspection
Appearance: Uneven joints between panels, differences in paint color (may be a sign of an impact). Rust on fenders, sills, under doors.
Interior: Worn seats, steering wheel, pedals (an indicator of real mileage). Do all buttons and indicators work?
Engine (on cold start): Listen for strange noises. Check for leaks under the car (oil, antifreeze).
Brakes: It should brake straight and without strange noises.
Tires: Check the tread and condition.
Don't miss the test drive, this is your chance to feel the car
Start: Does it start easily?
Gears: Do they shift smoothly?
Suspension: Do you feel a bump on bumps?
Steering wheel: Is there any play? Does it hold straight while driving?
Brakes: As we mentioned, test them at different speeds.
Final tips before buying
Don't rush! Take your time, look at a few cars.
Don't get attached to the first car: There are always other options.
Don't trust completely: Check everything you can and get a second opinion from a mechanic.
Contract: Make sure all the details are entered correctly.