Carzone has just released what it calls a significant move to aid potential car buyers.
It has shared an in-depth guide featuring top tips for purchasing new or used cars in the current market - especially as the new year approaches, with December widely known as being a time when potential car buyers do their research.
Here are their tips for buyers coming your way:
1. Strategic Timing for Purchase: Carzone recognises the importance of timing when securing the best deals. The periods just before new car registrations in January and July are prime for buyers, as dealerships are motivated to clear existing stock to make room for new models. This cycle creates an opportune moment for consumers to negotiate better prices, especially on used vehicles.
2. Leveraging Dealership Sales Cycles: According to Carzone, understanding the sales dynamics of dealerships can lead to significant savings. Purchasing at the end of the week, month, or quarter can coincide with sales targets, prompting dealers to offer more attractive deals to meet their quotas, particularly in the realm of used cars.
3. Capitalising on Model Updates: Carzone advises potential buyers to monitor upcoming model releases or facelifts. Dealerships often reduce prices on current models to clear out inventory before new versions arrive. This presents a golden opportunity for buyers to acquire a high-quality vehicle at a reduced cost.
4. Seasonal Buying Advantages: The guide highlights the influence of seasons on car prices. Carzone points out that off-season purchases, such as buying convertibles in winter or SUVs in summer, can result in notable price reductions, offering savvy buyers a chance to save.
5. Holiday Season Opportunities: The festive season, specifically from late November through January, sees a slowdown in used car sales. Carzone suggests this as an ideal time for buyers to negotiate better deals, capitalising on the reduced demand during this period.
6. Understanding the Seller: Carzone emphasises the difference in buying from dealers versus private sellers. Purchasing from a dealer offers more consumer protection under the law, a critical aspect for buyers to consider for a secure and supported purchase experience.
7. Importance of Vehicle History and Documentation: Comprehensive checks on a vehicle’s history, including past accidents, mileage accuracy, and finance obligations, are crucial. Carzone advises buyers to be thorough in these checks to avoid future complications, highlighting this as a key step in the purchasing process. They recommend sister brand, Cartell.ie for this, a service that reports checks for Outstanding Finance, Altered Mileage, Damage, Imports and more for as little as €45.
8. Selecting the Most Suitable Vehicle: Carzone encourages buyers to carefully consider their specific needs, such as vehicle size, fuel type, and running costs, in relation to their lifestyle. Carzone advises thorough research and consideration to ensure the selected vehicle aligns with the buyer’s long-term requirements.
9. Navigating the Buying Process: Carzone advises buyers to take their time and resist pressure from sellers. The guide emphasises the buyer’s right to deliberate and make an informed decision without haste, ensuring a purchase that aligns with their needs and budget.
10. Electric Vehicle Considerations: With the rise in popularity of electric vehicles (EVs ), it’s important to understand EV-specific factors such as range, charging options, and battery health. This knowledge is vital for buyers considering the switch to electric, ensuring their choice meets their daily needs and lifestyle. To benefit EV drivers, Carzone has developed its very own EV Hub on site, a space to offer trusted advice on buying and driving electric cars in Ireland.