How to Save on Buying a Car in Jackson, TN

Buying a new or used car can be something of a minefield these days - especially given the wealth of choice on the market and the ever-increasing shift towards sustainable, eco-friendly options with electric and hybrid vehicles.  

If you’re looking for a new car in Jackson, TN this guide will give you all the insider knowledge so you can make the best-informed decision possible and start to have the best road trips of your life.   Think about the seasons 

The car market is influenced by the seasons - though you might not realize it. There are times in the year when there’s a dip in demand and then other periods when people start to look and buy more often. Sometimes these periods go hand in hand with people researching renewing their car insurance in Tennessee and looking for a good deal.  

Typically, you’ll find end-of-the-year sales are a great time to buy. This is when dealers want to get rid of older stock and make way for new brands and models. December, believe it or not, is a great time to look. Tying into this are the following winter months, because even though finances are tighter and the weather harsh - it might mean dealerships are offering good deals on motors to get people into their showrooms.  

Take a look for a new car after the tax return season is over. Sometimes, this is when people have extra cash to hand - and thus it drives up dealership demand. Wait for the initial surge to pass and snap up a deal then.  

Looking to upgrade from renting a car to buying one? Let’s now look at a few money-saving tips that’ll save you a fortune in the long run.  

Establish your budget 

If you know you need a new or used car, before you start to hunt, plan your budget so you know what you can and can’t afford. Think about all the additional costs such as tax, motor insurance, and any potential servicing and repair bills.  

Make sure to research thoroughly 

Decided on the type of car you want? Make sure you invest time into understanding its value, how much it’ll depreciate over time, and whether or not it’s best to buy new or used. Kelley Blue Book and Consumer Reports are great places to turn to for advice.   

Inspect the car properly 

Does the car look pristine from the outside? Great! But make sure to check any underlying issues under the bonnet. Have the car inspected properly by a mechanic before 100% committing to buying.  

Never buy without test-driving 

Never buy without test driving first. You need to know how well the car handles, if you can drive it safely and comfortably, and if it will accommodate all your needs. Take it on proper highways, off-road (if that’s your bag) and make sure to drive in a variety of different urban situations.  

Picking a used vehicle? Make sure you vet it thoroughly 

Once you’ve picked a vehicle - if it’s used, make sure to request a vehicle history report. It’s an important insight into how it’s been used and cared for and will let you know if it’s been in any auto accidents or had extensive repairs needing insurance payouts.  

Negotiate, negotiate, negotiate 

Don’t just pay the asking price! Negotiate to see if you can get a better deal. Some prices will always be fixed and there’s not much you can do about that. But it’s always worth checking with private sellers to see if you can hammer the price down a bit. 

Don’t rush the decision  

Even if you think you’re sure you’re doing the right thing - step back and take a breather to think about it. A decision to buy a car made in haste can sometimes not always be the right thing. Take your time, think about it, and ensure you’re definitely buying the right vehicle for your needs.  

Shop around for insurance 

Make sure you shop around properly to get insurance quotes for your car in Tennessee. This will give you a good idea of any extra costs and how much you’re likely to pay in premiums.  

Get dealer recommendations 

If you want to buy new or used from a proper dealership - get local recommendations for great dealers in Jackson. Ask friends, family and seek out trusted online reviews. That’s the best way to ensure you get a solid service from a reputable seller. It’s riskier to buy privately, but often it can be the only way forward.  

Whichever way you choose to buy a new or used car in Jackson, a little research and budgeting goes a long way to making sure you’re on the way to staying safe on the road.