Guide to Finding the Right Vehicle in Auburn, NY

Car Shopper's Guide to Finding the Right Vehicle in Auburn, NY

When you need to buy a car in Auburn, New York, there are some important steps you'll need to take to be properly prepared. Buying a vehicle is a major investment, so making a plan in advance will let you make each decision with peace of mind. Let's walk through the process to see how Fox Toyota can make your car shopping experience clear and rewarding.

Identify Your Needs

First, you'll need to identify the kind of vehicle you'll need. Make a list of all the essential roles your vehicle must fill. In addition to your basic transportation, are there any other duties it must be fit for? If you need ample space for group trips and family travel, then a minivan or large, three-row SUV could be the right choice. If you don't need that much space, then you might enjoy the convenience, efficiency, and affordability of a sedan or compact SUV. If you routinely tow a trailer or need to carry bulky cargo, then you might require the power of a pickup truck. In addition to these needs, also remember the most common priorities for new car shoppers - safety, reliability, and affordability.

Set a Budget

By setting a budget for your car, you can operate with a realistic idea of how much you can afford to pay for automotive expenses. This can help you avoid committing to costs that would stretch outside your financial comfort zone. Common knowledge holds that automotive costs should stay within 15 percent of your monthly income, and keeping this number in mind could help you narrow down your options.

Consider Costs

As you set your budget, be sure to weigh each option's true cost of ownership. While the sticker price may be within your budget, the associated expenses might add up beyond what you're willing to pay. These expenses include more than the price of the car itself, as you should be prepared to also pay for fuel, maintenance, car insurance, and the interest on your auto loan.

Take a Test Drive

No matter how good a vehicle looks on paper, it takes hands-on experience to determine whether or not it's a good pick for your needs. Plan to test drive your top two or three options, and contact the dealership in advance to schedule your drive and make sure the models you want are ready. On each test drive, ask yourself these questions:

• Do you like how the vehicle handles?
• Can you see clearly out all sides of the vehicle?
• Will the cabin and ride quality be comfortable for everyone?
• Are you comfortable with how the steering and brakes respond?
• Are you pleased with its acceleration and overall performance?

Auto Financing

Many car shoppers decide to finance the purchase of their vehicle to avoid paying with cash on hand. If you want to finance your purchase with an auto loan, you'll need to provide the lender with some important details, including your credit score and income. They'll use this info to determine how much money they can let you borrow, while factors like your credit and the amount on your down payment can influence your loan's interest rate. You'll have a set time period to pay off the auto loan, usually 36, 48, or 60 months.

There are also certain auto loans available for specific situations. If this is your first time buying a vehicle, you might be eligible for a first-time car buyer's loan. This auto loan may come with appealing perks like a lower down payment or waived application fees. If you're buying a new car to replace an old one, you can use your old vehicle's trade-in value to increase your down payment and lower your interest rate. Get a free appraisal online with our Value Your Trade form.

How to Choose the Right Car

After the test drives, if your remaining options all meet your basic needs, then it might come down to a matter of personal preference. There might also be tools, capabilities, and features that could make a difference for you. If you have a young driver learning the rules of the road, the smart tech of a safety feature suite could be an appealing option. If you often venture off the pavement, then you might benefit from a model equipped with off-roading gear. Remember that you could own this vehicle for years, so make an investment that you know you'll enjoy driving day after day.

Find the Right Vehicle at Fox Toyota

When you're ready to take the keys to the new Toyota or reliable used model that's right for you, we'll help you every step of the way at Fox Toyota. Come visit our dealership located at 188 Grant Avenue, Auburn, New York 13021, to see what we have waiting for you!