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Shopping Tips
Buying a car
Buying a new car can be confusing. Things like colour and size and interior are entirely
up to you but how do you know you will not regret your decision. Take special
note of these areas, which may help you make the best choice for you:
Communicate
Be sure to speak with your dealer or salesman frankly. His concern is getting the sale but
he will advise you on the best type to suit your needs. No one wants an
unhappy customer. Take time to research the track record of the dealer with
respect to after sales service quality, availability and cost of spare parts.
Engine Size
The vehicle
engine size, either given in cubic capacity (cc) or horsepower (hp) determines
the power your car wields. The greater the engine capacity, the more powerful
your engine is. Note that engine size is one of the factors affecting your
insurance premium.
Vehicle Make
The make
of your car is another personal choice. It is advisable to note that different
makes may vary in cost of repair and maintenance due to the costs of their
parts. Again the make is another factor
that will affect the insurance premium you are asked to pay.
Vehicle Model
The model
of your car is another important decision. Finding parts for older models in
the event of an accident or claim can be difficult. In addition, older models
are rated differently for insurance purposes and often only qualify for Third
Party coverage.
Purchase Price
We all agree that your purchasing power usually
determines the type of the vehicle chosen. Feel free however to research your
vehicle of choice to be sure that you are getting good value for your money.
Vehicle value also influences insurance cost but may be varied at your
discretion when effecting cover. Ask
your insurance representative for payment options before you choose to under insure
your vehicle.
Used/Reconditioned Car
If considering the purchase of a second hand or reconditioned vehicle, be sure to
confirm its correct age as well as its accident history before you make your
decision. If the vehicle has been in an accident be sure to obtain a road
worthy certificate from the Ministry of Transport as well as a realistic market
value from a reputable repairer before committing to your purchase. These
documents are required before effecting insurance. Note that some insurance
companies may not offer coverage or will revise the rating depending on the
vehicle’s accident history.
Buying a Salvage
If the vehicle has been in an accident or written off, be sure to obtain a road worthy
certificate from the Ministry of Transport as well as a realistic market value
from a reputable repairer before committing to your purchase. These documents
are required before effecting insurance. Note that some insurance companies may
not offer coverage or will revise the rating depending on the vehicle’s
accident history.
How Much Coverage?
Within a few days of effecting cover
or beforehand where possible, obtain a current market valuation of your
vehicle. This is the value at which you should insure your vehicle. This
prevents against either over- or under- insurance. Do not effect cover simply
at the price which you have paid.
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