Dos and Don’ts as a First-Time Car Buyer

There’s nothing wrong about getting that Ford Mustang you spotted along Enterprise Road, or that Audi A8 you saw in Kileleshwa – or even that pimped Mazda CX5…if your pocket allows it, then by all means, go get it.

Spotting your favourite car will always get you thinking, “I’ve got to have it.” But know this: everything seems perfect until you realise you don’t know much about what happens next. 

In fact, it’s all too common for first-time buyers to make hasty decisions, overwhelmed by the sheer number of options, advice, emotions, and details. They either overspend, settle for a car that doesn’t meet their needs, or miss crucial steps in the process.

To help you avoid these common mistakes, let’s break down the dos and don’ts every first-time car buyer should know. Whether you’re buying from a dealership or a private seller, following these tips will ensure you walk away with a car that suits your needs and budget—without the buyer’s remorse.

Do Your Research First

One of the biggest mistakes first-time buyers make is walking into a dealership without doing any research. This leaves you at the mercy of the salesperson, who may or may not have your best interests at heart.

Before you even think about stepping into a dealership, you need to do some serious homework. Ask yourself:

• What kind of car do I really need?
• What’s my budget?
• What are the average costs for insurance, taxes, and registration for that type of car?
• What are the reviews like for this car in terms of reliability and safety?

Doing your research not only helps you understand what car is right for you but also puts you in a stronger position to negotiate. You’ll know the fair market value of the car and whether it’s worth the asking price.

If you’re unsure where to start, Peach Cars offers a great selection of new and used cars and can guide you through the research process.

Don’t Rush the Process

This is where a lot of first-time buyers go wrong. They see a car they like, fall in love with it instantly, and before they know it, they’ve signed the papers. The excitement of getting a new car can cloud your judgment, making it easy to skip important steps.

Usiwe na mbio. Take your time. This is not a decision you want to rush. Test drive different cars, compare prices, and most importantly, sleep on it. A car is a significant investment, and you need to be sure it’s the right one for you.

Do Set a Budget (And Stick to It!)

It’s easy to get carried away when you’re surrounded by all those shiny cars with impressive features. The salesman will likely try to upsell you on features you don’t need, and suddenly, your budget has gone out the window.

Set a budget that includes not just the purchase price of the car but also additional costs like insurance, taxes, and maintenance. Stick to this budget like glue. 

Don’t let the allure of a sunroof or leather seats push you into a financial hole (who could resist the blacked-out rims, the leather seats, and the futuristic console of a G-Wagon – right?) 

If the car fits your needs and falls within your budget, then you’re making the right choice.

Pro tip: Always budget for a bit more than just the car. A new set of tyres, extra insurance costs, or even unexpected repairs might come up. It’s better to be prepared for these additional expenses.

Don’t Overlook Hidden Costs

Speaking of costs—there’s more to owning a car than just the sticker price. Many first-time buyers are so focused on the purchase price that they forget about ongoing costs, such as:

• Insurance premiums
• Fuel expenses
• Regular maintenance and repairs
• Registration fees and taxes

Be sure to factor in these additional costs when planning your purchase. A car that seems affordable initially could end up being expensive to maintain in the long run.

FYO, if you’re worried about hidden costs, Peach Cars offers transparent pricing and detailed breakdowns of what you can expect to spend on different vehicles.

Do Inspect the Car Thoroughly

Whether you’re buying a new or used car, an inspection is crucial. For used cars, make sure to inspect both the exterior and interior for signs of wear and tear. Look under the hood, check the tyres, and ensure all lights are working. Don’t forget to ask for the car’s service history.

If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, hire a mechanic or opt for a professional inspection service—like the comprehensive 288-point vehicle inspection offered by Peach Cars. This will give you peace of mind that the car is in good working condition and doesn’t have any hidden issues.

Don’t Ignore the Vehicle’s History (For Used Cars)

If you’re buying a used car, one of the most important things to do is check the vehicle’s history. Ignoring this step could land you with a car that’s been in multiple accidents or has serious mechanical issues that will cost a fortune to fix.

Always ask for a detailed history report, including:

• Any accidents or major repairs
• The number of previous owners
• Whether the car has been serviced regularly
• Odometer readings to confirm the mileage is accurate

A reliable seller will have no issue providing this information. If they’re hesitant or avoid the question, that’s like some Nairobi Instagram baddies you’ve been warned about, a red flag.

Do Ask Questions

You’re making a major purchase, so don’t be shy about asking as many questions as possible. Ask about the car’s warranty, what’s covered in case of repairs, and how to transfer the logbook.

In the case of used cars, ask about its previous ownership, accidents, and the last time major parts like the engine or brakes were serviced.

The more information you have, the better you can make an informed decision. And if the seller can’t provide clear answers? Walk away. It’s better to ask a million questions now than to discover an expensive issue later.

Don’t Forget to Read the Fine Print

When you’re ready to close the deal, you’ll be hit with a pile of paperwork. Before you sign anything, take your time to read through the fine print. 

Check the financing terms if you’re taking out a loan, and ensure there aren’t any hidden fees or clauses.

This is where many first-time buyers get tripped up. They sign the contract without understanding all the terms and then end up paying for things they didn’t agree to. If anything seems unclear, ask for clarification or seek legal advice.

Wrapping Up

That said, being a first-time car buyer doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you know what to do and, more importantly, what not to do. The key is preparation—doing your research, asking the right questions, and not rushing the process. Stick to your budget, inspect the car thoroughly, and don’t forget to read the fine print.And if you want to minimise your chances of getting scammed, reach out to us at Peach Cars. We’ll guide you through the process, from researching and test driving to inspections and paperwork. Visit us today to find the car that fits your needs, budget, and lifestyle.