Finding the Right Vehicle in Owensboro, KY

Car Shopper’s Guide to Finding the Right Vehicle in Owensboro, KY

Are you thinking about buying a car in Owensboro, Kentucky? Purchasing a vehicle is an important investment, so it pays to think about your needs and weigh your options. There are also some crucial steps to take if you want to make the right choices, so let’s go over the ins and outs of buying a new car.

Identify What You Need

First, figure out what it is that you need from your next vehicle. Safety, affordability, and reliability are all essential elements to consider, but is there anything else you need beyond basic transportation? If you often drive with friends and family, you might need a larger SUV with ample passenger space, but if you tend to drive solo, then a smaller SUV or efficient sedan might be the practical choice. If you own a trailer or know that you need a vehicle that can tackle tough work duties, then a pickup truck could be the way to go. If fuel efficiency matters to you, don’t forget to ask about EV or hybrid options.

Set a Budget

To prepare for your investment, you’ll need to establish how much you’re willing to pay for your vehicle and all its associated expenses. Having a budget in mind will keep you from making a financial commitment outside your means, and it can also allow you to rule out options that would cost more than you’re comfortable with. Conventional car-buying wisdom holds that automotive expenses should not exceed 15 percent of your monthly income.

Consider the True Cost to Own

Keep in mind that the sticker price isn’t the only amount you’ll need to budget for. Vehicles have other associated expenses, so be sure to weigh the true cost of ownership for each option. That includes the interest on your auto loan, fees, maintenance, gas or charging costs, and car insurance.

Take a Test Drive

While a vehicle might seem right on paper, you won’t know how well it will work out for you until you’ve taken it for a test drive. Plan a test drive for each of your top two or three options, and be sure to contact the dealership ahead of time to ensure that the vehicles you want will be available and ready. When you’re behind the wheel, analyze the vehicle with questions like these:

• Do you like the steering and brakes?
• Is your view obstructed by major blind spots?
• Is the ride quality and cabin to your liking?
• Do you feel confident in vehicle’s the acceleration, handling, and performance?

Auto Financing

When you buy a vehicle, you can finance the purchase with an auto loan to make the transaction easier on your bank account. Financing allows you to buy the model you need and make monthly payments on the amount you owe rather than handing over a lump sum all at once. To apply for your auto loan, you’ll need to provide lenders with info about your credit and income, and that info will help them determine how much money you can borrow for your purchase. You’ll then have a set amount of time to repay the loan plus interest.

Loan terms usually last 36, 48, or 60 months, and the interest rate you pay is determined as a percent of the principal amount. Factors like the size of the down payment and your credit can also influence the interest rate. Different loan types are also available for various situations, and if this is your first vehicle purchase, you might be able to take advantage of a first-time car buyer’s loan with a lower down payment and fewer fees.

How to Choose the Right Car

When it’s time to make a decision, you’ll have to determine which option has everything you need. If your top contenders all bring the basics to the table, then you’ll have to look at what stands out with each model. It could be a simple matter of style, or those special amenities that make the difference for you. Extra safety features, upscale interior furnishings, or even the looks could make the difference for you, so weigh each factor carefully. Remember, you’ll likely be driving this vehicle every day for years, so pick the one you believe you’ll enjoy the most.

Find the Right Vehicle at Don Moore on 54

Whenever it’s time to find the right model for your situation, we’ll help you get what you need at Don Moore on 54. You can count on our team for help at each step, from weighing your options to the test drive, financing, and saving in the process. Come see us when you’re ready at 3232 Villa Point, Owensboro, Kentucky 42303.