Why would women need to do anything different than men? The sad (but true) fact is that women still get treated differently than men when it comes to certain issues. Unfortunately, anything to do with technology seems to still fall into that category. The obvious answer would be to take a man along while shopping for a car, but sometimes that is not feasible. In addition, this guide will help women to learn how to do this on their own.
First, determine what kind of car you want. Don't just think about the type (sedan, SUV, truck, sports car), but also consider the particulars and options. Ask yourself the following questions: Do you want a new or used car? How much gas mileage are you looking for? Is the vehicle mainly for yourself or do you have to transport kids and their gear? Do you primarily use it for local work and errands, or do you make long-distance trips? If you go to a dealer with a specific picture in your mind, you will look less lost and vulnerable. People that work in sales can tell if you know what you want or if you could be sold anything.
The Internet is your friend, use it. Compare cars and models and read online reviews. You can also use the Internet to get used with unfamiliar car terms, as well as use it to research options like extended warranties. Find out what the price range is of the car or cars that you are interested in, so you will know what to bargain for.
When you are ready for the trip to the car dealership, take some time to think about the clothes that you will wear. Keep in mind that most car sales people are men. What image are you trying to convey? A conservative style of dress will probably make you look like you have money to spend and that you can afford more car, but it could also make you end up paying more.
As you walk onto the lot, never take the first thing offered. Sales people, no matter how nice they are, have their own agendas. They often will try to sell you on options that have nothing to do with the reliability or performance of the vehicle, such as CD players. This is where your previous research experience comes in handy. If you know what you want (and don't want), you will be less likely pushed into buying something solely to increase the commission of your salesperson.
When you test-drive the vehicle, tell the salesperson what you don't like about it and why you won't buy it. It does not matter if you are right or wrong, the goal is to sound assertive. You could say for example that the brakes need worked on, if you feel you don't like how they perform. If you don't think the car accelerates like it should, you can specify that and say it needs a tune-up. No one needs an engineering degree to make these types of observations. Chances are that the person you are talking to has no mechanical knowledge at all anyway.
If you find a car that you like, still don't buy it on the first visit. Thank the persons assisting you for their time and tell them you will be back. Then come back the next day, or the day after. Don't wait too long, so they will remember you as the assertive and secure potential customer from before. It is even better if you scope out the competition in the meantime and see what they will offer you, that way you can bring something extra to the table when it is time to sit down and negotiate.
You don't have to be a woman to benefit from these suggestions. However, the sad truth is that women do need extra efforts to get a fair deal when it comes to car buying.
