Guide to Finding the Right Vehicle in Salem, VA

Car Shopper’s Guide to Finding the Right Vehicle

Are you looking for a new car or SUV? Planning ahead can make that car-shopping experience rewarding and hassle-free, and at Berglund Mazda, we’re ready to help you step-by-step. Let’s go through the car-buying essentials to help you make the right choice.

Identify What You Need

The first point to consider is what you need your vehicle for. Daily transportation is a start, but are there any other roles or duties that your next vehicle should accommodate? If you often travel with friends and family, you may need a spacious cabin with abundant seating. If the extra cabin space isn’t a priority, then maybe a sporty sedan or compact SUV would be a good fit. With any option, it’s always important to consider each vehicle’s safety and reliability.

Set a Budget

The next step is to decide how much money you can comfortably pay for your new vehicle. When you set a budget, you can keep auto costs in check and rule out options that would put too much strain on your financial situation. To set the budget for your next car, consider the old recommendation that transportation expenses shouldn’t exceed 15 percent of your monthly income.

Consider the True Cost to Own

While you’re budgeting for your vehicle, don’t overlook the true cost of ownership for each model you consider. This goes beyond the figure written on the price tag, as owning a vehicle also entails fuel costs, car insurance, auto loan interest, fees and registration, and regular maintenance.

Take a Test Drive

Once you’ve narrowed your wish list down to your top two or three vehicle options, the time has come to take each one out for a test drive. That hands-on impression is a crucial step in deciding if a vehicle is a good fit for you, as there are some factors that won’t be apparent until you’re behind the wheel. As you take each test drive, ask yourself these questions:

• Is the cabin comfortable with plenty of room for your passengers?
• Are you pleased with the acceleration, handling, and brakes?
• Is there clear visibility on all sides of the vehicle?

Auto Financing

Many drivers aren’t prepared to pay the entire cost of a vehicle out-of-pocket, so financing allows you to purchase the vehicle you need with an auto loan. When you apply for your auto loan, you’ll provide the lender with your credit and income details, which they’ll use to decide how much money they’ll let you borrow. After you buy the vehicle, you’ll repay the auto loan plus interest over a set payment period. Various auto loan options apply to different scenarios, so feel free to ask our team about what your financing options are.

How to Choose the Right Car

When it’s time to make your choice, you’ll need to identify which vehicle checks all the most important boxes on your list. If each of your top contenders provides the most essential qualities, then you may have to consider your personal preferences. Does one model suit your sense of style more than the others? Does one have more safety systems or fun features? Remember that the model you choose is an investment that should pay off for years, so pick the vehicle that you believe will make you happy to drive now as well as years down the road.

Find the Right Vehicle at Berglund Mazda

Whether you need a spacious SUV, streamlined sedan, or athletic sports car, the right vehicle for your lifestyle is waiting for you at our Mazda dealership in Salem, Virginia. Come see us at Berglund Mazda to explore our selection and talk with our team. We’ll work with your needs and preferences to help you find the car of your dreams.