Buying a Car: Should I Avoid the First Model Year?
Should you avoid buying a first-model-year car? Learn the potential risks, reliability considerations, and what to research before buying.
Should you avoid buying a first-model-year car? Learn the potential risks, reliability considerations, and what to research before buying.
With proper maintenance, most ceramic coatings will last two to five years or 30,000 to 50,000 miles. However, many factors play a role in how long ceramic coatings can effectively protect car paint.
Our advice to first-time car buyers is essentially the same as for any car shopper: Before setting foot on a dealer’s lot, thoroughly research and gather all the information you can. Having said that, here are a few things to consider as you embark on your first car-buying journey.
Here’s the truth many borrowers don’t realize: When a car is repossessed, nobody wins. See what you can do if you fall behind on your car payment.
A car lease is an agreement that gives the consumer the right to use the leased vehicle over a set period. Instead of outright ownership, car leasing works more like a long-term rental where the driver doesn’t own the vehicle but is still responsible its use. Leases are subject to term limits, usually two or three years.
Use taxes, sales tax, and various other taxes may apply when you purchase a vehicle. The exact amount will depend on where you live and the total cost of the car.
Buying a certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicle allows car shoppers to get the best of both worlds.
Understand what your car’s dashboard warning lights mean, from check engine and ABS to tire pressure and hood open alerts.
Use your tax refund wisely — learn how to calculate a car payment that fits your real budget before you buy.
Use your tax refund wisely when buying your first car with budgeting tips, cost-saving advice, and smart shopping strategies.