What Car Is Right for Me

As you pour over your options for new and used vehicles, you may be left wondering, "What car is right for me?" Deciding on a car can be challenging, but keeping some important considerations in mind will make the process easier.

Buying a new car is a big decision, but good research can help you narrow down the options.

Buying a car is a big decision. If you're like many drivers, your car may even be an extension of your personality. Because purchasing a car is such a major investment, it pays to do your homework. In order to make sure you love your new vehicle, you need to be sure you’re buying the right car for the right reasons.

Before you head to the car lot or even begin to consider vehicle options, it’s a good idea to know your budget. Cars are expensive, and there’s more to paying for one than simply writing a check each month. In addition to calculating your monthly car payment, keep the following expenses in mind as you budget for your new car:

• Insurance costs
• Maintenance and repair costs
• Fuel expenses
• Parking fees
• Commuter lane fees

Buying a new vehicle can mean purchasing a car right off the dealer’s lot or simply buying a used car that is new to you. Your budget will have a major impact on your decision to buy a new or used vehicle, but you may also want to consider a used car if you need to get more bang for your buck. Buying a newer used vehicle, one that is only a couple of years old, might make it possible for you to get features you couldn’t normally afford in a brand new car.

On the other hand, buying a new vehicle has its advantages as well. You know that no one else has driven the car, so there are no questions about the vehicle’s history or reliability. In addition, when you buy a new car, you can expect the vehicle to be perfect inside and out.

Where you live and drive can also have a major impact on your choice of a car. If you live in a climate that gets a lot of snow and ice, you may want a vehicle with four-wheel drive. If you live in a hot climate, air conditioning could be an important feature.

Your location can also affect whether you buy a car with a manual or automatic transmission. If you do a lot of city driving and often find yourself stuck in traffic, you may prefer the easier operation of an automatic transmission. On the other hand, if you drive on open roads and enjoy shifting gears, a manual transmission might best meet your needs.

For many drivers, paying for gas represents a major automotive expense. In recent years, the market has seen increased sales of fuel-efficient vehicles like hybrids and compact cars. If you drive long distances or want to save money on gas, it pays to consider fuel economy when you choose your next vehicle.

After you’ve decided whether you want a new or used vehicle and you've narrowed down your list of potential cars based on your budget, location, and fuel economy, it’s time to think about other factors. Keep the following considerations in mind as you decide which car you want to buy:

• Performance
• Reliability
• Color
• Passenger room
• Cargo space
• Safety
• Style

As you research your options and begin to answer the question, "What car is right for me?" don’t forget to listen to your instincts. As with any major decision, weighing your options will only help you narrow down the field. You’ll need to trust your own judgment to make the final decision.

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