Buying a car is one of the most important decisions that both new and experienced drivers face. Whether you are looking for your first vehicle or planning to replace your current car, choosing the right model can be a challenge.
There is also the question of whether it will be more beneficial and profitable to buy a new car from a showroom or a second-hand vehicle. In our text, we will try to suggest which solution to choose.
New car - what to consider when choosing?
Choosing a new car is a decision that requires careful consideration and consideration of many factors. Here are the most important criteria to consider when choosing a new car.
Budget
- Purchase - set the maximum amount you can spend on a car. Remember that the list price is not the only cost - also include tax, insurance, and any registration fees.
- Operational – consider the costs of maintaining a car, including fuel, servicing, repairs and insurance.
Fuel type
- Gasoline - usually cheaper to buy, but may be less economical in the long run.
- Diesel - better fuel economy, especially on long journeys, but higher servicing costs and often more expensive insurance.
- Hybrids - combine a combustion engine with an electric engine, offering fuel savings and lower emissions.
- Electric - zero emissions and cheaper to operate, but require access to a charging station.
Destiny
- City - a compact city car is easy to maneuver and park, and often has lower fuel consumption.
- Family - Larger models like SUVs or minivans offer more space and are often better equipped with safety features.
- Long routes - cars with larger engine capacity and higher driving comfort.
Body size and type
- Compact car - ideal for the city, easier to park.
- Sedan - more space inside and in the trunk.
- Station wagon - large luggage space, good for families.
- SUV - higher seating position, more space, but may be less economical.
- Hatchback - practical and often offering good luggage space in relation to its size.
Security
Check the crash test results (e.g. Euro NCAP). Pay attention to the availability of assistance systems such as ABS, ESP, lane assistant, automatic emergency braking.
Equipment and technologies
Elements worth paying special attention to include air conditioning, multimedia system, navigation, communication systems (Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto). Comfortable seats, adaptive suspension and parking systems are also important. Finally, you should decide whether you are interested in an automatic transmission or vehicles with a manual transmission.
Brand and model reputation
Read user opinions and expert reviews. Check reliability rankings, service costs and spare parts availability. Some of the most popular new car models include Skoda Octavia, Volkswagen Passat and Skoda Fabia.
By considering all these factors, you can make a more informed choice that will meet your needs and expectations. Remember, good research and analysis before buying is key to being happy with your new car.
Used car - what to look for when choosing used cars?
Buying a used car can be a good financial decision, but it requires careful analysis and caution. Here are the most important aspects to consider when deciding on a used car:
Vehicle History
- Vehicle history report - check the service history, collisions, number of previous owners and whether the used car was not stolen. You can do this using services such as Carfax, AutoCheck, or CEPIK reports.
- Service book - verify the regularity of inspections and repairs at authorized service centers.
Technical condition
- Engine - make sure the engine is running smoothly and not making any unusual noises.
- Suspension and steering - check that the suspension is in good condition and that the car drives stably.
- Brakes - check the condition of the pads, discs and brake efficiency.
- Tires - check that the tire tread is worn evenly and that there is no damage.
- Bodywork - look out for signs of corrosion, especially on the lower bodywork and chassis.
- Electronics - make sure all electronic systems (lights, air conditioning, multimedia systems) are functioning properly.
Process and documentation
- Mileage credibility - check if the odometer has not been rolled back. Compare the wear and tear of the vehicle's interior with the declared mileage.
- Registration certificate - verify whether the data in the registration certificate is accurate (VIN number, engine number).
- Purchase and sale agreement - check whether the data in the agreement is correct and whether it contains all the necessary information.
Price
- Market value - compare the car's price with the prices of similar models on the market to make sure it is fair.
- Negotiate - Be prepared to negotiate, especially if you notice any minor issues that will need to be fixed.
Technical inspection and driving test
- Reliable Mechanic - Take your used car to a trusted mechanic for a pre-purchase inspection. A professional can spot problems that may not be visible to a layman.
- Test length - take a longer test drive to see how the car behaves in different conditions - in the city, on the highway, at different speeds.
- Comfort and ergonomics - pay attention to seat comfort, visibility, cockpit ergonomics and overall ride comfort.
- Ownership - Make sure the seller is the rightful owner of the vehicle and that there are no liens or debts on the car.
Buying a used car can be worthwhile if you carefully check its condition and history. Thorough preparation and analysis will help you avoid many potential problems and enjoy a safe and satisfying ride.
Or maybe... rent a car at MobiCars?
MobiCars car rental can be a great alternative to purchasing your own vehicle, especially if you only need a car for a short period of time or want to avoid the costs and responsibilities of owning a car.
Renting offers flexibility and convenience, allowing you to choose from a variety of rental plans, from a few days to several months. Online booking saves time and allows for quick access to your car.
Another important aspect is the cost. Renting eliminates the need to take out a loan to buy a car and incur depreciation costs. The price of renting a car often includes insurance, servicing and other operating costs, which simplifies financial management.
At MobiCars you can also choose from a wide fleet of cars, which allows you to adjust the vehicle to your needs - whether for a family trip, a business trip or daily commute. Additionally, by renting a car, you avoid the problems associated with its maintenance, repairs and resale.
