When making the decision to purchase your new car, it’s important to take into consideration not only how much you can afford to spend but also how much you can afford to use on maintenance and upkeep.

We’ll always recommend purchasing Japanese – we’re a bit bias like that – but there is also a number of other factors to consider aside from the cost of parts and their importing.

We’ll touch upon of a few of these in the entry below and hopefully provide you with a bit of sound advice when considering your next vehicle purchase.

  • Do your research

First things first, do your research! Find something that ticks all the boxes and stick to it, you may be tempted by that shiny red convertible on the lot but remember what you are after and why.

  • Dealing with a dealer

If you are purchasing via a dealership then make sure you bring your game face. These guys are practically wolves and if they smell even the slightest scent of weakness or indecision, they will be all over you (and your wallet) in seconds.

  • Fuel economy

That 4.5 litre V8 may look like an absolute treat to drive but how much will it hurt your pocket in the long run? Unless you have an expendable budget we would recommend looking at more fuel conscious choices that may not deliver as much on power but will certainly prove better bang for buck.

  • Vehicle inspection

No matter who you are purchasing the car from, even if it’s off old trusty Bob from down the lane, make sure you get the vehicle properly inspected before you even consider signing anything or forking money over. Luckily for you the trustworthy, professional team here at Dodson’s will be only too happy to oblige.

  • Test drive

Take it for a spin! You may be in it for the next decade of your life (if chosen correctly) so you may as well get to know it first. See how it feels and if the power, traction, steering and other variables are up to the standard of meeting your personal preference.

Purchasing your new car is a big thing. It falls somewhere between buying a house and buying a bed so you want to make sure that it is the right fit for you both financially, structurally and performance-wise.

Use some of our tips and tricks and hopefully you can find the car that was destined for you.

For all your other servicing and parts needs, don’t forget to call the pros here at Dodson’s Japanese Partworld on +64 9 441-3152 – we are only too happy to help.

Till next time!