Car Buying Process: Everything You Need to Know as a First-Time Car Owner

Buying your first car is both a milestone and a headache—there’s excitement, anticipation, and a tiny bit of fear, especially when you realise just how much you don’t know about the whole process. 

From deciding which model suits your needs to making sure you’re not overspending, the whole process can feel like a maze. You want a car that fits your lifestyle without breaking the bank, but every time you think you’ve found “the one,” there’s a new cost, a hidden fee, or someone telling you to go for something else. 

Frustrating, right? 

Well, buckle up! At Peach Cars, like the big brother we to you on all matters about cars, is today breaking down the car-buying process so that you, as a first-time buyer, know exactly what to 1.

1. Research, Research, and More Research

If you think you can just walk into a car dealership and drive away in your dream car, think again. The car-buying process starts way before that, and it begins with research. 

You want to be sure you’re getting a car that fits your needs, lifestyle, and most importantly, your budget.

What Do You Need?

This is where you ask yourself some important questions. Are you looking for something to get you to and from work? Are you starting a family and need more space? Or do you just want something flashy to show off to your friends? (No judgment there!).

But seriously, understanding your needs will save you a lot of time and headache.

Key things to consider:

• How many people will you usually drive around?
• What’s the usual terrain of your routes (urban, rural, or a mix)?
• What’s your daily mileage?
• Is the car for personal use or business purposes?

Once you’ve answered those questions, you’ll have a clearer idea of what type of car to look for. Whether it’s a fuel-efficient saloon or a rugged SUV, you’ll want something that serves you well, and of course, won’t break the bank.

Pro tip: Peach Cars offers a variety of cars that suit every need. Check out our listing and schedule a test drive for your favourite model – of course, when you are ready to shop.

2. Setting a Budget (It’s Not Just About the Sticker Price)

Buying a car isn’t just about saving enough for the upfront payment. There are other costs to keep in mind, like insurance, taxes, maintenance, and fuel. 

When setting your budget, it’s important to look at the bigger picture. How much can you afford monthly for the car and its upkeep?

Here’s a quick breakdown of what to include in your budget:

• Insurance: This is mandatory in Kenya, and while third-party insurance is the cheapest, you might want to consider comprehensive coverage for better peace of mind. Prices can range from Kshs 30,000 to Kshs 140,000 annually, depending on the vehicle.
• Fuel Costs: Your fuel expense will depend on your driving habits and the car’s fuel efficiency. Aim for something economical unless you’ve got cash to burn at the pump.
• Maintenance: Regular servicing, repairs, tyre rotations, and the occasional battery replacement are all part of the deal. Trust me, your car will remind you of this often!

3. Exploring Your Options (Choices Ni Mob, Maze)

Now comes the exciting part—shopping for cars! It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the choices, but don’t worry, we’ll help you keep it simple.

Where to Start Looking:

There are tons of online platforms, showrooms, and even car bazaars to check out in Kenya. The key is to narrow down your search based on the type of car you need. 

New or Used:

Decide whether you want a brand-new car or a used one. New cars come with that fresh-out-of-the-showroom smell and fewer risks, but they also depreciate quickly. 

Used cars are cheaper upfront, but they may come with their own set of issues. Both options are valid—it just depends on what works best for you.

Features and Reliability:

Check out the features you absolutely need versus the ones you can live without. Are you looking for maximum fuel efficiency, top-tier safety features, or maybe a killer sound system? 

Also, don’t forget to check the car’s reliability ratings. The last thing you want is to buy a car that spends more time at the mechanic’s than on the road.

Test Drive Time:

You wouldn’t buy a pair of shoes without trying them on, right? The same logic applies to cars. Once you’ve shortlisted your favourites, it’s time to test drive. 

Pay attention to how the car handles, its comfort, and whether it feels right for you. Look out for any strange noises.

Ask yourself:

• Does the car feel smooth?
• How’s the visibility? Can you easily see the road and surroundings?
• Is the ride comfortable enough for long drives?
• Are all the features (air conditioning, stereo, etc.) working properly?

Pro tip: Peach Cars offers a hassle-free test drive experience. Schedule yours today and drive before you buy!

4. Financing or Cash? Decisions, Decisions…

Not everyone has the cash to buy a car outright, and that’s where financing comes in. If you’re going for a loan, getting pre-approved will help you know how much you can borrow and what your monthly payments will look like.

• Cash Buyers: If you’re buying with cash, that’s great! You’ll avoid monthly payments and interest rates, but you’ll need the full amount upfront.
• Financing: Financing a car means you’ll pay a deposit, then make monthly payments over time. It’s a good option if you need the car now but don’t have the full amount. Just remember, financing adds interest to the overall cost, so budget accordingly.

At Peach Cars, we’ve partnered with trusted financial institutions to offer competitive car loan options. Whether you want to buy new or used, we’ve got you covered with flexible plans!

5. Time to Negotiate

Here’s where your research pays off. Once you’ve found the car you want and know how much it’s worth, it’s time to negotiate. Many buyers shy away from this part, but a little negotiation can go a long way in getting a fair deal.

How to Haggle Like a Pro:

First, know the market value of the car you’re eyeing. If you’ve done your research, you’ll have a ballpark figure to work with. 

Dealers expect some negotiation, so don’t be afraid to counter their first offer. Be polite but firm, and if you’re trading in your old car, make sure you know its value too. Every little bit helps!

Here are some tips:

• Start lower than what you’re willing to pay, but within reason.
• Be ready to walk away if the deal isn’t right (sometimes they’ll call you back with a better offer).
• If they won’t budge on the price, ask for added perks like free servicing or extended warranties.

Don’t feel pressured to seal the deal immediately. It’s your hard-earned money, and you deserve the best value for it.

Now, the best part about getting your car from Peach Cars is that we take the stress out of negotiation. We’re transparent with our pricing and offer fair trade-in deals to first-time buyers. Give us a call to find out!

Final Thoughts

Buying your first car is a mix of excitement and nerves, but with the right approach, you’ll come out on top. Research thoroughly, set a budget that includes all costs, test drive your options, and don’t shy away from negotiations. At the end of the day, you want a car that fits your needs and won’t drain your wallet in upkeep.

If you’re ready to take the next step, Peach Cars is here to help you through every part of the process. From choosing the perfect car to finding the best financing options, we’ve got your back. Browse our wide selection of both new and used cars at www.peachcars.co.ke today and start your journey to car ownership with confidence! Your dream car is just a click away!