Let's go with price first since it is often the most obvious consideration for the average person. The best question to ask yourself before you shop is, how important is quality over price to you? A good example of this would be, especially when financing the truck, an extra $3-5000 spread out over an auto loan in 48-60 months would not reflect a huge difference in monthly price, but could make a significant difference in the quality of what you choose. What are you saving by getting a truck that is known to have documented problems with certain mechanical issues and your warranty runs out before it's paid for? Now, you are strapped with vehicle repair bills. Beware of slick salespeople who will dance around your concerns just to make a commission. A good combination of your comfortable price and known quality is what to strive for. Many family members and friends will swear by their favorite auto brand, but ultimately do some research into the brand you are considering before you buy.
For me, color is important. You may not place that much emphasis on that. A Ford blue will not be the same as a Dodge blue, and a Chevy red can be completely different than a Toyota , however, in the end decision, I always opt for the reputation and quality of the brand I favor instead of color choices. I rarely lean toward drab colors of gray, white or tan, so the shades I prefer very significantly vary from car brand to brand. I have in the past bought cars and trucks that were not my favorite shade of the color choice I prefer, but because the deal in front of me offered more than I would get if I was hell bent on one absolute color.
Design preference has lead many shoppers to their truck choice. Some auto manufacturers are making their newer models more boxy and square with rigid lines, or a more rounded Euro appearance. Maybe you prefer a more classic look, in which case you may want to buy an older model. If you are not sure when to make your purchase, keep in mind that body style changes usually occur every four to five years, so check on your favorite truck style's last model year change. Another caveat involving price is that if your favorite body style is due for a model change, you could probably get a better price on the left over model year once the new style is on the market.
Warranty is a big thing. You don't want to spend big dollars for repair bills. Ford and Chevy/GM both offer warranties on 3 years or 36,000 miles (whichever comes first) and Dodge/Chrysler offers 7 years or 70,000 miles. You might ask yourself why would there be such a difference in numbers between Chrysler and the others? Remember reputation counts and consider the fact that a cheaper price with a lengthy warranty may not be your best option down the road. How much time can you give up your vehicle to be in the repair shop, even if the cost is covered under warranty? Not all warranty programs allow for a free rental car while yours is being worked on. Additionally, if you go with Ford or Chevy, after the factory warranty is over, there are reputable and reasonable third party warranty policies available if this is a major concern.Do your homework and don't be afraid to ask before buying what is covered and what is not under your warranty.
Safety ratings need not be an issue for concern in general, as all later model truck manufacturers' products carry 5 star safety ratings. Obviously, the larger more solid trucks enhance your safety should an accident occur.
See also : How to buy used car safely
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