Automobile purchases for most individuals represent the second largest purchase the average person will make besides their home. Numerous articles have been written on how to get prepared when purchasing an automobile. I want to present to you some money saving secrets that I have learned from being in the business for more than thirty-five years.
After you have completed your research and selected the model that you desire. The next step is for you is to research the trim levels. Why the trim levels? Because the average buyer over spends on standard equipment located in these trim levels. This leads them to purchasing more equipment on their vehicle than they will ever use and spending hundreds or even thousands of dollars unnecessarily. Here’s an example, a Chevy Malibu has the following trim levels available LS, LT, and LTZ . All manufacturers have models with similar trim levels. Each trim level represents a group of equipment that will come standard in the package. Now the question is, what are your equipment must haves? When I ask buyers this question my general response is , “I want it loaded”. I’ll then ask, what is loaded? The general response is power windows, power door locks, cruise control, leather, sunroof and a dvd player.
Here’s how to save money, purchase the LS trim level that comes standard with power windows, power door locks, and cruise control thereafter, add the leather, sunroof, and dvd thru an aftermarket company. Most aftermarket equipment comes with a warranty that’s similar to the manufacturer’s warranty. To get a comparable equipped vehicle out of stock you will have to purchase a LTZ trim level. If you compare the price of the LTZ trim level to the one equipped with aftermarket accessories, you’ll save thousands of dollars and have the model and equipment you enjoy most.