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Whether you're buying a new or used
vehicle, careful research and planning will help you get the right vehicle
without any headaches.
Check on reliability.
Nothing can torpedo a budget like unexpected repair costs. The annual Consumer
Reports
survey of mechanical problems with different models, available in the
magazine's April issue
each year, cites both overall ratings and specific
problems.
Reduce depreciation before you buy.
The biggest single cost of vehicle ownership is depreciation, the loss in value
caused by age
and wear-and-tear. You can take several steps to reduce
depreciation even before you buy. Buy
a vehicle known for keeping its value.
Depending on the model, the resale value after five
years can range from
15%-55%. Even
small options like floor mats can increase
resale value.
Negotiate hard.
Reduce your purchase price by looking for the dealer cost or "invoice price.”
You can find helpful information in the Auto Center on our Web site, including
links to NADA Appraisal Guides. Aim for a selling price
(before any rebate) of no more than 2% over the invoice price. You can always
call us about pre-approving your auto loan before you even start shopping.
Save time with Indirect Lending.
Clearview has partnered with many car dealerships to save you time when buying a
vehicle. You can pick one out and complete your financing at the dealership
anytime, even when Clearview
is closed. All of the paperwork is done at the dealership, making the process
much more
convenient for you! Go to the Auto Center on our Web site for a complete list of
dealers that participate in Indirect Lending and for many other useful resources
on buying and financing your
next vehicle.
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