Availability Of Spare Parts Is Key Factor To Choose A Car

Buying a car is always an exciting event considering availability of large range of brands and hundreds of models. At times, it becomes daunting and baffling too as the range of options can be intimidating. An exhaustive research based on price, need, local dealerships, availability of spare parts, maintenance cost, etc., helps to start narrowing on options.

Based on sales experience, it has been seen that people look at the size of a car Vis a Vis lifestyle, family size, economic viability and transport needs, while making a purchasing decision.

Missing Link

Often people are seen missing the vital factor, that is, the availability of spare parts and aftermarket sales. Negligence on the understanding of the market for spare parts and components for motor vehicles, leads to great trouble in later stages and at times, vehicle remain stranded and many times abandoned, due to unavailability of parts. There is definitely lack of knowledge on this front as most of the brands do not sell the spare parts openly and if the particular model is old, imported or niche, the problem can be acute. A careful examination of the availability of parts is must before finalising particular brand and its model.

Few tips can help in narrowing down on the right methods to choose a good car that suits and fits to the purchaser’s requirements.

Research What's Essential For You

If one understands one’s need of the size and shape of car, think carefully about what one will use it for. If you travel to regions having bad roads, a crossover SUV is a good bet due to higher clearance. If you’re keen on travelling, carrying capacity may be important – but look out for cars that have easy-to-fold rear seats that lie flat when dropped.

Make use of car review websites and embedded comparison options with same range and price. Checking local car review websites will give you the lowdown on features, performance, local dealers, strengths, and weaknesses of different models of car. Also, read reviews from buyers and car experts to get a broad perspective on how the cars measure up.

Budget

Work out your car budget. As a general rule, your car payments should not exceed 10 per cent to 15 per cent of your monthly salary. Before taking loan, for few months put aside assumed EMI, to see how comfortable you will fill yourself afterwards. Buy a smaller car if you want to save money. Other than luxury sports cars, small cars generally cost less than larger models. They also consume less fuel, which will save you money over the long run. Many small cars are surprisingly roomy inside. Visit a dealership to see them in person before dismissing them for being too cramped.

Consider fuel efficiency before purchase. If you want a fuel-efficient car and you commute less than thirty kilometers a daily, a hybrid car is a great option. If you travel long distances on a regular basis, opt for an economy sized four cylinder car or a CNG. Having fewer cylinders means better fuel economy.

Decide Between A New Or Used Car

Your budget will be the most relevant consideration when deciding between a new and used car. Used cars generally offer a better value but they require careful checking by an expert to ensure that they are in good condition. Avoid buying a car that has had numerous owners, which is usually a bad sign. Costly heavy duty cars have the longer lifespan and runs fine with regular servicing and upkeep.

Schedule A Test Drive

The best way to find out if a car is right for you is to get behind the wheel and feel the experience. Visit a car dealership to arrange a test drive. Try to visit the dealership in the morning, to ensure that you get the salesperson's full attention and avoid a long wait or crowd. Use the test drive as an opportunity to ask the salesperson extensive questions about the car. Never be under pressure to buy a car the same day of your test drive; think wisely and make a pragmatic decision.

Decision On A Body Style

Today, carmakers often seem to offer cars designed around a ‘lifestyle’. When you’re deciding what car to buy, keep in mind roughly what size and shape car you want, but be prepared to look up and down in terms of size and body style. If you’re after a traditional hatchback like Maruti, Suzuki or the Volkswagen, for instance, would the extra space available in a similarly priced Skoda Yeti SUV be useful, or is all that extra room just going to go to waste? It’s a similar story with brands: be prepared to consider manufacturers you might once have thought of as too luxurious or costly, as well as brands and have now become competitive pricewise.

Factor In Policy Of The Domestic Country

There are specific policies with respect to the cars which set the specification for use along with the lifespan of car permitted for use. For instance, India will soon come out with a policy to scrap vehicles that are more than 15 years old. The policy aims at curbing rising vehicular pollution in the country. Besides, the government will soon unveil National Auto Policy to promote green mobility through electric vehicle, etc. that sets the ground rule for use of ‘not’ any vehicle in the country.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the article above are those of the authors' and do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of this publishing house. Unless otherwise noted, the author is writing in his/her personal capacity. They are not intended and should not be thought to represent official ideas, attitudes, or policies of any agency or institution.