Skillful Shopping and the Right Insurance Add up to New Car Savings
Thinking of buying a new car? President’s Day is a popular time for car purchases. Sales are slow and inventory high—a good time for negotiating. Manufacturers often raise their prices as the year progresses, so in February you are early in the cycle.
Sometimes you don’t have a choice, and you need to replace your car immediately; in which case the end of the month and Monday through Thursday, are strategically best for pricing.
Do Your Research to Compare Performance and Prices
The use of a computer and a telephone, give you the tools to research competitive pricing and negotiate in advance. A number of websites that include: Edmunds.com, Cars.com, and Truecar.com can help you compare price offers from multiple dealers, once you decide on make, model and equipment. Local dealers will often try to match a competitor’s price. Agree on the price before you test drive. The pressure to complete your purchase will be high once you arrive in person at the dealership.
Get the Complete History of a Used Vehicle
If you are purchasing a used car, it is very important you get a complete report on the history of the vehicle that reveals previous accidents, repairs, and number of owners. The two largest companies that provide these reports are Autocheck and Carfax. If you are buying from a large dealer, you can request they include the report as part of your negotiation tactics. When buying from a small dealer or individual, do not neglect obtaining this information. Previous damage you cannot see can make a big difference in the car’s value and performance. With the VIN number you can purchase one of these reports yourself.
Three Things to Remember About Insuring Your New Car
Proof of Insurance
1) The dealer will require Proof of Insurance for your new car. If you already have car insurance and you are planning to transfer that coverage you can call your insurance agent with the VIN number of the car prior to completing the purchase and picking up the vehicle. Or many insurance companies have an 800 phone number you can call to provide that information when at the dealership.
Original Equipment Manufacturer Coverage
2) It is very important that you have OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) coverage stipulated on your new vehicle insurance, so that if you are in an accident and repairs are needed, the parts will be manufactured by the original company and not an inferior substitute.
Review Coverages
3) Now is the time to review your entire auto insurance policy. If you have been driving an older car, you may need to add collision coverage that was not previously on the policy. If the use of your auto is crucial for your employment, you will want to add rental reimbursement to your auto policy to pay for a rental car if it is out for repairs due to an accident.
At the Crilly Insurance Agency, we are always happy to answer your questions about auto insurance coverage and any other type of insurance. As a locally owned independent insurance agency, we work hard to find the best insurance for you and your family. Give us a call at 410-571-1771 or contact us through our website.
