Buying a new car in Los Angeles can quickly go from exciting to frustrating, especially if you are not ready. It isn’t as easy as picking up your favorite sourdough. It’s an intricate and time-consuming process that involves figuring out which model you want and swimming through a sea of new car dealers in Los Angeles, CA.
Plus, it’s a bug ticket purchase. The last thing you want to do is end up with a car you don’t need, can’t afford, or worse — a lemon. Don’t worry. We will help you through this emotional journey.
Here are 10 tips for buying a new car in LA.
1. Research
Our first tip for buying a new car is thorough research. It may sound like a no-brainer, but people often ignore this advice. In 2023, 1.78 million cars were sold in California. In other words, buying a new car is like finding a needle in a haystack.
However, research can help you understand which model best fits your needs and budget. It can save you from buying a lemon. Plus, it can help you negotiate a better deal with a new car dealer in Los Angeles, CA. But most importantly, it helps you avoid car manufacturers that are more likely to get sued.
Typically, this involves diving into specifics like car models, fuel economy, safety features, and other add-ons. Your research can start with a simple online search. Websites like Edmunds or Consumer Reports are also a good place to get it going.
2. Budget
Set a realistic budget when you decide to buy a new car in Los Angeles. Your budget should cover taxes, registration fees, and insurance premiums. You will pay these costs in addition to the base price. Also, consider long-term costs like maintenance and depreciation. Keep your budget as detailed as possible, just like your research. This will help you choose a car you can afford.
3. Test Drive
Test drive before you buy a car. Every new car dealer in Los Angeles, CA, offers a test drive. It’s your chance to see how the car feels and works. Keep an eye out for how it accelerates, brakes, and handles different road conditions. Although a test drive won’t save you from buying a lemon, it provides insights you cannot get from reviews alone. Test drive a few cars before making your decision.
4. Negotiations
If everything checks out, you can make an offer. But be prepared when you approach new car dealers in Los Angeles, CA. Remember your research and use it to negotiate a favorable deal. Sometimes, the salespeople may try to pressure you into a deal that breaks the bank or buy add ons. Don’t let that happen. Stick to your budget and ask for better terms or perks like free maintenance. Remember, the sticker prices are not set in stone.
5. Financing
It’s easy to get finance when buying a new car. If your credit score is good, you might get pre-approved financing. However, you’ve got to stick to your budget. When you talk to the dealer, ask how much you will have to pay upfront, what will be the interest rate, and how much your monthly car payment will be. Compare interest rates and loan terms from different lenders. Get a deal that best fits your wallet.
6. Trade-In Value
When you buy a new car in Los Angeles, you can trade in the old one. However, it’s better to know the trade-in value before going to a new car dealership. You can use online tools like Kelley Blue Book and NADA to get an idea of your old car’s trade-in value. The dealer will most likely make a trade-in offer. If you feel it is too low, don’t hesitate to ask for more or shop around. You might find a better deal at another dealership.
7. Timing
Yes, timing can affect the price. Most new car dealers in Los Angeles, CA, offer discounts during the holiday season or when they want to clear inventory. Look out for local dealership promotions. You might find a deal that’s well within your budget.
8. Warranties and Service Contracts
If everything looks good, you can go ahead with the deal. But before signing the papers, check out the warranty details and what it covers. This is a critical tip for buying a new car, especially when it comes to the California Lemon Law. Ask the dealer how long the warranty lasts (time and miles), what components are included, and what repairs are covered. You can get an extended warranty if needed. Just make sure it’s worth paying for.
9. Insurance
You will need insurance when you buy a new car in Los Angeles. The cost will vary based on the car model and your age, driving history, and even credit score. Once again, you can shop around. You don’t have to sign up with an insurance company offered by the dealer. Check for discounts that may apply to you. Typically, safe drivers can get discounts on deductibles and premiums. Your insurance agent may also offer discounts if you have multiple car policies.
10. Resale Value
After a few years, you might want to upgrade your car again. So, when you buy a new car in Los Angeles, consider its projected resale value. Remember, some vehicles can depreciate faster than others. Buy a car that’s likely to fetch a better resale value. It can greatly reduce your overall cost of ownership.
Did You Buy a Lemon? Talk to a Lemon Law Attorney Now!
Buying a new car is easier said than done. It involves thorough research, considering your budget and finances, test-driving, warranties, and insurance, among other things. These 10 tips for buying a new car can make your buying journey easier. However, you might still end up with a lemon. It happens more often than you think. Talk to a lemon law attorney immediately if you believe you bought a lemon.
Did you buy a lemon? Don’t worry. We can help you file a lemon law claim. Cline APC is one of the well-known lemon law firms in California. We offer FREE consultation and work on a CONTINGENCY. That means we don’t charge you UPFRONT.
Call our California lemon law firm at 888-982-6915, email info@clineapc.com, or schedule a free consultation.
