Checklist to follow before buying a new car in India

Purchasing a new car is a milestone for many families. However, it can be a daunting experience in India's diverse market. Factors such as features, insurance choices and prices control the buying dynamics of the general population. A properly structured checklist should be followed before purchasing a car. Some of the areas of consideration before making the purchase include budget setting, adequate research, knowing details about maintenance and many more. 

This blog will focus on the various criteria that should be considered when making an informed car purchase. 

Budget Considerations 

Evaluating the budget is one of the most crucial activities before purchasing a car. Going through factors that govern the budget is necessary to make a sound financial decision. A few such factors are:

Purchase Price

Based on the type of model the prices may vary. Generally, Hatchbacks come at cheaper prices whereas sedans and SUVs come at a premium price. The onroad prices should be properly evaluated, including registration fees, taxes, and other miscellaneous costs apart from the ex-showroom price. After proper analysis, the purchase should be made.

Finance Options

The budget can be properly devised after knowing the various financing options. Deciding whether to pay in full cash or signing for loans is a crucial step. Planning down payment options and comparing interest rates from the banks for loan options is necessary to properly evaluate the final costings associated with buying a car. 

Mileage

Certain types of cars provide greater mileage compared to others, such a factor is important to consider as it brings huge differences in the maintenance costs. 

Additional cost

These include factors such as resale value and the purpose of usage. Based on the location where the car would be used and the particular lifestyle of the owner, the budget can be formulated. 

The budget has to be formulated to be optimum for the buyer in the long run. It should not exceed an individual's financial limits. 

Research and Comparison 

Having proper research about the vehicle market and personal needs lets an individual make an economical purchase. Identification of needs based on lifestyle leads to effective buying. Choosing between petrol, CNG, Diesel or electric based on need and the driving pattern is necessary before selecting the perfect vehicle. Having optimal research about engine performances, and safety features such as ABS and airbags also helps individuals to filter their choices. 

Using sources such as YouTube reviews, InsuranceDekho and other online platforms is necessary. Along with reviews, taking up multiple test drives ensures that individuals of driving comfort, handling and visibility. Along with all this proper research about the after-sales services that a particular car company provides is very crucial. Efficient after-sale services enhance the ownership experience to a great extent. Research and comparison are the two key elements which should be considered before making the purchase. 

Check For Offers and Discounts

When an individual decides to buy a car in India, it is a great idea to check for discounts. India is the land of festivals and capitalising on various festivals, car companies provide special discounts. These offers can be viewed at the official manufacturer websites, dealerships or at the online marketplaces. Various offers such as exchange offers and financing offers can be availed by the buyers. These offers and discounts aid the buyer and make the buying experience optimal. 

Insurance and Maintenance

Understanding Insurance and the various intensities of maintenance significantly impacts the overall ownership experience. There are various kinds of insurance such as third-party insurance which is mandated by the law. However, they do not cover the damages which occur to the vehicle. Comprehensive issuance is better as it covers the vehicle and the third parties as well. There are various other factors such as the premium cost, No Claim Bonus related to the issuance aspect of buying cars. For more information visit the official website of InsuraceDekho. 

The maintenance includes scheduled services, the availability of spare parts, warranty renewal and a few other stuff. These aspects should be properly inspected before buying any vehicle. 

A Checklist For Buying New Car in India

It is better to check all the essential things before buying a car so that you don’t have to regret your decision in the long run. So, here are some of the things that you need to know before buying a new car in India:

Identify Your Needs

It is very important that you first identify your needs and budget before deciding on which car to finally buy. If you buy a car without analysing your requirements, then things may turn wrong. For instance, if you have a family of 7 members, then it is better to buy a 7-seater car rather than a sedan model. Similarly, if you can afford to buy a car worth Rs. 5 lakhs, then there is no point in buying or even researching cars that exceed your budget. 

Check For The Interiors 

Once you have identified which car you need to buy, it is also important to check the different parts of your car such as its interiors. You must ensure that the car is in good condition from the inside and there are no stains in the area of the dashboard, seats, etc. While checking the interiors, you must also check the seats and the mats and identify if there is no damage to such areas. 

Check for the Engine

The engine of a car is one of the most important components that you need to check. You must start the car and identify whether its engine is not noisy and there is no leakage. If otherwise, then your engine will be easily damaged in the long run. The engine must not make any noise as well as it should also not emit any fumes or smoke, if it does so, then you need to plan to buy another car.

Check for Tyres

The tyres of the car is another thing that you must check before the final purchase. If the tyre of the car is flattened or damaged in any other way, then avoid buying that particular car. A damaged or flattened tyre results in early damage to the car, so make sure to check such things beforehand.

Check the Locking System

Sometimes there are such advanced locking systems installed in a new car that it often becomes inconvenient for first-time car buyers. So, before buying a new car, make sure that you check its locking system. Also, check the air conditioning of the car before buying a new car in India. 

Take a Test Drive

Before buying a car, you must also ensure to take a test drive. Taking a test drive will help you understand the working condition of the car and also give you a fair idea about the other aspects of the car. 

Check the on-road Price

You also need to check the on-road price of the car as it varies from the showroom price. You can do so by checking different websites online and must also ensure to check the motor taxes you need to pay. 

FAQ

Q1.What can be the first step in buying a new car?

Ans. Determining the budget is the first step. Understanding the various costs such as registration fees, and taxes associated with buying a car, should be done thoroughly.

Q2.What is the significance of fuel efficiency?

Ans. Cars which have high fuel efficiency lead to savings in the long run as with time the fuel price will increase.

Q3. How to check the safety features of a particular car?

Ans. Looking at features such as the number of airbags, the presence of ABS braking systems and Global NCAP safety ratings ensures the degree to which the car is safe.

Q4. How to verify the credibility of a particular Dealership?

Ans. Checking reviews, and gathering customer feedback can give a clear idea about the credibility of any dealership.

Q5. What are the Benefits that the government provides for electric vehicles?

Ans. The Indian Government offers various kinds of incentives for electric vehicle buyers. They also provide tax benefits and subsidies.  

Also Read: Things To Keep In Mind While Purchasing Electric Vehicle Motor Insurance