i30 Owners Club
GENERAL STUFF => ADVICE FOR POTENTIAL BUYERS => Topic started by: AlanHo on March 03, 2016, 22:41:59
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Some things to think about before buying a new car.
Go carefully and thoroughly over the brochure and specification of your chosen car at home and be sure you understand all its features before you visit any dealers. You may find that you then know more than the salesman - and I'm not kidding.
Look at the forum that specialises in your chosen brand and look for the problems reported by owners and any tips about the car. Ignore one-off rants by disgruntled owners - only take note of the general opinions on the forum.
Have a test drive of the exact model you have chosen - if the first dealer does not have one - try other local dealers to find the exact model. You can chose later who to buy from.
Consider carefully whether you buy a petrol or diesel model. If you do regular long journeys both are suitable - but if you do only short journeys a petrol car may be the best choice. Diesels are fitted with a DPF which can get damaged if the car is used only for short journeys.
Don't expect your car to achieve the government economy figures that manufacturers are required to quote in their literature. Look at forums, Honest John, What Car, Autocar and other sites for more realistic guidance.
Don't let the salesman talk you into fancy paint or upholstery treatment - it isn't needed and in any event you can do it yourself for a tenth of the cost
Carefully consider any payment plans offered to you. Some dealers will only discount the car price if you buy it through their payment plan.
If you chose a model with a built-in sat-nav - insist on being given details of map updates, their frequency and cost before you commit to buy. If the dealer waffles and you sense he is not sure - insist on him checking with Hyundai before you will consider a purchase.
If Bluetooth phone connection is an essential requirement - get the salesman to pair your phone with the demo car to check you are happy with it being compatible. Some phone/car combinations will not download your address book to the car - so check it carefully to ensure it meets your needs.
Carefully consider any insurance plans offered
Don't hesitate to post any questions you may have on this forum - you can get lots of help and advice here.
Above all - don't be rushed into a purchase - if you act in haste you may regret it later.
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Wise words, Alan.
I have often found that when I am searching for a car, be it second hand or brand new, that I do a lot of reading and research beforehand. Nearly every time I know more about the car than the salesman.
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Very well said. Pretty much as when I bought my i30.