Are you in the market for a new or used car? Choosing the right vehicle can be an exciting yet overwhelming process. You need to ask the right questions to ensure you get the best deal. From pricing and fees to warranties, safety ratings, and vehicle history, asking your dealer the right questions can give you the knowledge to navigate the car buying process confidently and find the perfect car for your needs.
To learn as much as you can about the vehicle and the terms of the sale, ask the dealership the following questions:
What is the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)?
If you are looking for a particular model, ask your dealer about the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP), also known as the sticker price.
The MSRP encompasses the overall cost of the vehicle, taking into account the trim level, safety features, entertainment and navigation systems, and destination price (the cost of shipping the new car from the manufacturer to the dealership).
Are There Any Additional Fees Included in the Sale Price?
While the MSRP provides a baseline price, the actual sale price can vary based on dealer discounts, promotions, negotiations, and any additional fees charged by the dealership.
Typical fees added to the sticker price include:
- Documentation fee: Also known as a processing fee, this is a charge for the paperwork and documentation involved in the sale. This covers the cost of preparing and processing the necessary paperwork for the purchase of the vehicle.
- Dealer preparation fee: This fee covers the cost of preparing the car for sale, including cleaning, inspecting, and performing necessary maintenance or repairs before delivery.
- Sales tax: The amount of sales tax charged on the purchase of a vehicle. It is a percentage of the sale price typically paid to the dealership, which then remits the tax to your state’s DMV. In Michigan, the sales tax is 6%.
- Title and registration fees: These fees cover the cost of transferring the ownership of the vehicle to the buyer and registering it with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Does the Car Come With a Warranty? What Does it Cover, and for How Long?
When purchasing a new car, the purchase price includes a manufacturer’s warranty, also known as a factory warranty. This warranty covers certain parts and systems of your vehicle and can be divided into different types of coverage.
One common type is the bumper-to-bumper warranty, which typically covers most components from the front bumper to the back bumper. This includes major systems like the engine, transmission, steering, and electrical. The specific items covered vary depending on the manufacturer and model.
Another component of the manufacturer’s warranty is the powertrain warranty. This covers vital components that help propel and power your vehicle, such as the engine, transmission, and drivetrain. The powertrain warranty may have different coverage terms compared to the bumper-to-bumper warranty.
These warranties are usually time-limited, typically covering a specified number of years from the date of purchase or a specific mileage limit, whichever comes first. Once these limits are reached, the warranty coverage may no longer apply, and any repairs or replacements become your responsibility. Different automakers offer different lengths of new car warranties, but you can usually expect three to five years or 36,000 to 60,000 miles.
Ask your dealer which warranties the car comes with and clarify the expiration date or mileage covered.
What is the Safety Rating of This Car? Can You Provide Information on its Crash Test Ratings?
While most new cars come equipped with advanced safety features like lane departure alerts and forward collision detection, always ask your dealer about the specific safety features of the car you’re interested in, as well as the car’s safety rating.
Independent organizations such as the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) conduct rigorous crash tests and provide safety ratings for various vehicle makes and models. These ratings can give you valuable insights into a car’s crashworthiness and overall safety performance.
By reviewing the crash test ratings, you can identify cars with excellent safety records and avoid models with poor ratings. Look for high scores in categories such as frontal crash, side crash, rollover, and overall safety to ensure you’re choosing a vehicle that prioritizes passenger protection.
Before making your final decision, remember to discuss safety features and ratings with the dealership to ensure you understand the car’s safety capabilities.
How Many Miles Does the Vehicle Have?
The number of miles on the car can impact the final price, as well as the longevity of the vehicle. Typically, a car with higher mileage will have a lower sticker price but may require repairs or maintenance more often than a vehicle with fewer miles on the dial.
Asking your dealer about the car’s mileage or checking out the mileage on the dealership’s online search tool allows you to gauge potential longevity and estimate future maintenance costs, ensuring you choose a used car that aligns with your needs, budget, and expectations.
Are There Any Aftermarket Parts Installed in the Car?
Ask the seller if the car has aftermarket parts, such as a custom sound system, upgraded tires, unique rims, a roof rack, or enhanced suspension components. Understanding these modifications provides insight into the car’s customization history and allows you to evaluate its quality and compatibility with the vehicle.
Knowing about aftermarket parts helps you assess the overall condition and value of the used car, ensuring that it aligns with your preferences and requirements.
Has This Car Been in an Accident? Are There Any Major Damages or Frame Damage?
While not all accidents should automatically deter you from buying a car, avoiding vehicles that have experienced significant damage, especially to the frame, in a collision is generally better. Major accidents can have long-lasting effects on a car’s structural integrity, safety, and overall performance.
Obtaining information about the accident history from the dealer allows you to assess the potential risks, repairs, and future maintenance needs associated with the vehicle. Try to obtain a comprehensive vehicle history report, such as a Carfax report, which can provide detailed insights into any reported accidents, damage, or salvage titles associated with the car.
What Incentives or Rebates are Currently Being Offered for This Vehicle?
Asking a car dealer about the incentives or rebates for a vehicle can reduce the overall cost. Knowing the available incentives allows you to take advantage of special offers such as cashback, discounted pricing, or low-interest financing options. This information can save you substantial money on your new ride.
Incentives and rebates often have specific financing options, such as 0% APR or extended loan terms. Understanding these options allows you to explore the most advantageous financing arrangements for your budget and financial goals.
Do You Offer Financing Options? Can I Apply for a Loan Through the Dealership?
Dealership financing offers you the convenience of allowing you to handle the entire car-buying process in one place. Applying for a loan through the dealership means you can complete the required paperwork, negotiate the terms, and finalize the purchase, all at the same location.
Car dealerships often have relationships with multiple lenders, which can result in access to competitive interest rates and loan terms. By inquiring about financing options, you can compare the rates offered by the dealership with other financing alternatives to ensure you’re getting the best possible deal.
Applying for a loan through the dealership streamlines the process. Dealership finance teams are experienced in handling loan applications. They can guide you through the steps, making navigating the financing process easier without searching for external financing on your own.
At Hometown Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, our Finance Department is dedicated to assisting you with all your auto financing needs. Whether you’re looking to finance a new car or secure a loan for a used vehicle, we can help get you behind the wheel of your new ride.
Our online car loan calculator provides instant rate estimates, and our online finance application makes the process convenient. We work with all types of credit, including no-credit situations, and have strong relationships with car loan companies to find the perfect solution for you.
Has the Car Been Recently Serviced? Are There Any Service Records Available?
Even brand-new vehicles sitting on the lot for a while may require attention. Ask the dealer about the last time their mechanics inspected the car and what services were performed. Request a copy of the service records for a complete picture of the vehicle’s maintenance.
If the car is due for new brakes or tires, an oil change, or any other recommended services, discuss with the dealer if they can address these before finalizing the purchase, ensuring you receive the car in optimal condition.
Can I Take the Car for a Test Drive?
Asking the dealer for a test drive is important for several reasons. It allows you to experience the vehicle firsthand and assess its comfort, handling, and performance. You can test the acceleration, braking, and maneuverability, giving you a better understanding of how the car suits your driving style.
Additionally, a test drive enables you to evaluate the vehicle’s features, such as the infotainment system, safety technologies, and overall ergonomics. It also allows you to identify potential issues or concerns that may not be evident during a visual inspection.
Do You Accept Trade-Ins? Can I Trade in My Current Vehicle?
Most dealers accept trade-ins, allowing you to lower the downpayment on your new purchase. Before finalizing the deal, research the approximate value of your trade-in to ensure you receive a fair offer. Check the Kelley Blue Book or use Hometown Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram’s Value Your Trade-in tool for an accurate and fair market price.
Discuss Your Options With a Hometown Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Representative
With a wide selection of vehicles, knowledgeable staff, and a dedication to customer satisfaction, the Hometown Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram team is ready to help you find the perfect car.
Contact us today to learn more and start exploring the answers to your important questions to ask a car dealer.
