I bought a new car! And I have some first-time car buying tips for you too. But first, a eugoogly for my previous car:
Dear Pontiac Sunfire,
I’ll never forget the 12 years we spent together. From high school in Michigan to college in Ohio, to a new start in North Carolina, you were there. Your crank windows and lack of remote-controlled anything was so convenient, and that time your power steering went out in the middle of a downtown intersection was thrilling. But most of all, I’ll always remember
Paristhe way I had to play my MP3s through the radio, scanning for a new empty station every time I entered a new zip code.Thanks for everything, and also thanks for nothing,
Chanelle
I’ve had a new car in the back of my mind for years now, but I didn’t want to purchase a new car when my old car was paid off and running just fine. Unfortunately over the past 2-3 years or so, there had been more and more trips to the repair shop, and each time was more expensive than the time before.
The last straw was when I braked hard behind a jerk who cut me off and felt my brakes kind of…slip. I took it to the shop that afternoon and the first thing the mechanic asked me was, “Are you from up north?” Apparently there was nearly irreparable (well, it could have been repaired, but AT WHAT COST) rust and corrosion from the harsh winters and salty roads. So I drove it right over to a Kia dealership and traded it in.
I’m thinking about naming her Kia Vergara
I purchased a 2016 Kia Soul base model in Shadow Black (it’s black with subtle red metallic shimmer) and I am in love with it! A few months ago my mom and I took a blog trip in a rental car that happened to be a Kia Soul and I’ve wanted one ever since. I like its quirky look and that it’s a spacious hatchback. Plus, it’s equipped with Bluetooth and a great sound system, both of which were very important to me, a self-professed Spotify junkie. The interior is spacious with lots of head- and leg-room – it can even comfortably seat a 6’6″ passenger!
I’m lame
I’m very happy with my purchase. But I’m not just here to brag about it (only a little). I also wanted to share a few first-time car buying tips that can help you out if you’re in the market for a car, too!
- Do your research online. Narrow it down to a few car options that will suit your lifestyle and budget first, then test drive them. In my case, I definitely wanted a Kia Soul since Nissan stopped manufacturing my other contender, the Cube, a couple of years ago. I looked into the prices of the 2016 Kia Soul at all trim levels and used a payment calculator to determine the price I’d be willing to pay. Some great resources are /r/whatcarshouldibuy, /r/askcarsales, and Edmunds car comparison tool.
- Get insurance quotes for the cars you’re deciding between. Many insurance companies give you free quotes when you are considering a change to your policy. Make sure you can afford the new rate!
- If you’re trading in your old car, look up its value and consider selling it by owner – you might be able to get more for it that way. If you trade it in at the dealership, you’ll want to ensure you’re getting a fair price for it.
- Don’t let the salesperson get you to tell them what you want to pay monthly. They can use this against you to get you to take out a longer loan, so even though your payments might look low, you’re paying more over the life of the loan when you incorporate interest. Instead, determine your monthly budget and input it into a car payment calculator to determine your ideal purchase price. My mom told me this tip – thanks mom!
- Don’t be afraid to negotiate. When they present you with a number, you don’t have to accept it! With your ideal purchase price in mind, give them a number lower than that and let them meet you in the middle.
- Don’t seem desperate. Unfortunately, I was a little desperate when I went to buy this car, but I had still done my research since I had planned to buy a car in the next few months, and at the dealership I acted like I wasn’t in a rush. Don’t let them smell your desperation – desperate people are more easily taken advantage of.
- You don’t have to buy that extended warranty. When you go to sign your contract with finance, they will try to upsell you on a longer or more comprehensive warranty than comes with your car. You don’t have to buy it unless you want to.
By using all these tips, I was able to buy my 2016 Kia Soul for less than MSRP! I feel pretty cool right about now.
Tiffany says
Absolutely love the look of the Kia Soul…!! Great find. We just purchased our first Brand New vehicle and these tips are definitely ones to go by…
rocky says
Great tips you have here! thanks for sharing.
Leigh Anne Borders says
I love this post and it is so helpful. I will be shopping for a new car soon.
Life as Mum says
How cool! That car is gorgeous! Jealous!
Mary says
New cars are the best! You look super happy with your decision. Enjoy it!
Keith Haney says
The car looks great. I have not bought one from a dealer in awhile. Your advise is practical and easy to follow. Do your research is key.
Ordinary Mom says
I wish I could buy KIa but my Hubby hates koreans (cars). Maybe I should put my foot down because its going to be my car and hence my decision!
Roxy says
Kia is HQed in Seoul, South Korea, but the vehicles themselves are manufactured in Georgia, USA. So, technically, you’re supporting the American workforce when you purchase a Kia.
Ordinary Mom says
Thanks for letting me know! now, I can make my case stronger.
lex says
congrats on your new toy and i pray you more blessings to come. the list up there too are great ways to be on the safe side. you and the new toy look great together…hahahaha
Mhaan A says
This reminds me that I should get my student’s driving license! I love your new car by the way. 🙂
Mhaan | http://www.mommyrockininstyle.com
Karlaroundtheworld | Karla says
Congratulations on this fine deal! I feel like many people can learn with the situations involved in 4 and 7. I should know because well, let’s just say that I mostly just say yes which isn’t good.
Dannii @ Hungry Healthy Happy says
We just bought our first car and we did lots of research before, so we knew what we were getting in to.
Kerri says
My best tip would be to do your reserach. I do remember my first new car. It was a Saturn that I purchased in 1998. Wow. WHere has the time gone?
Mags says
Congrats on the new car. It looks great!
christina aliperti says
That is one hot car! I haven’t bought a new car yet but I will keep these tips in mind. My son may be getting his first car soon.
janella panchamsingh says
this is a pretty vehicle I don’t drive but I would def consider this if i did,
Mariesbeauties says
Thanks for some great tips, looking to not getting a new car soon.
Daniella Keating says
These tips are great! I love the pictures in this post too, haha!
Daniella | Freshly Pressed Beauty
Nina says
Great advice and a great post. Thanks for sharing. Will be bearing this in mind when I buy my next car.
Leanne says
At the grand age of 28 I still don’t drive so haven’t experienced buying a car yet!
Echo says
These are great tips! I just bought a new car too and put some of these to use! Go us!
Bethany Naismith says
These are some really important points to consider before buying a car! I don’t actually drive or plan to, but I wish my sister considered these before she bought hers!
Lilinha says
I wish I knew about all those tips before we bought our car!
http://lilinhaangel.com/
Ali - We Made This Life says
Great tips, we have just bought a new car and we are really happy with it too. I find the process quite stressful though!
Melanie Edjourian says
OMG I loooove your car it looks great. You chose a good colour too.
Dreammerin says
Wow!! The car looks great – love the color! Congrats on your new ride!
Lisa Rios says
Kia cars are the gorgeous ones and I love how this black color stands out to be the best. These car buying tips are going to be very much useful as well for the ones who are buying for the first-time!
jamie says
Can’t beat that new car smell!
Brianne says
We are in the process looking for a new car right now. I’ll have to check out this Kia! I feel like it would be perfect for my family!
Janeane Davis says
For many people, a car is the biggest purchase they will make during the course of their lifetimes. It is important to do research and make an informed decision about what is best for you and your family.
Rachel Mouton says
I love this KIA so much! It looks like it was just made for you 🙂
Terri Beavers says
I reviewed a Kia Soul and fell in love with it. My nephew was so impressed with it, he bought one right away. Congrats on your new ride.
Joanna says
The new car looks gorgeous! I don’t have a driving license yet, so I don’t know the feeling of buying a new car and all the things you have to pay attention to when you do. I do have a bike though, and I know how happy I was when I bought it, but also sad to leave old “Billy” behind, my previous one.
Fashion and Style Police says
Wow that car looks good. Congrats on your new car.
Nina says
Congrats on the new car! Mine is nearing 18 years old. I’m about to move to Europe in just a few weeks, so I’m hoping it holds out just a bit longer. Those are some great tips too!
Nina
aworldofdresses.com
Tami says
Congrats on the new ride. My oldest son is talking about buying a new car. He might like this one.
kandi says
Doing your research is very important! I remember when I went on a car search. I wanted a pick up truck and knew cars/engines very well. I took a guy friend with me and the salesman kept talking to him until he finally reminded him that I was the buyer. He tried telling me some bogus stuff about the engine until I corrected him- the dumbfounded look was priceless!
Taria Shondell says
Congratulations on your new car! It is really nice! And great tips to help with the buying process!
Maya says
haha yesss! Congratulations on your new ride, hope you enjoy it! And great tips!
Kira C says
I love you new car, it’s beautiful! My car at the moment was my first car, a Nissan Pixo, tiny little thing but handy 😀
Jenni says
Beautiful new car, those photos of you on it are fab haha x
Ana says
Congratulations for your new car! And thanks for the wonderful tips! I will keep in mind whenever I’ll be buying my new car!
Michele B says
I love the Kia cars, I have had one before and loved it!! This looks like a great one to drive around in.
Yolanda @ SeeingItTheirWay.com says
My best car buying tip is to buy outside of major city. The country dealers have the absolute best deals!
Rachel says
I am so glad, in some ways, that I have never had to buy a car because it is an absolute minefield, I would be constantly ringing my dad for advice x
Donna says
Buying a new car can definitely be intimidating. I do remember my first car that I bought all by myself without my parents or a man going with me. 🙂 It was a big deal and worked out great, but I would have loved these tips back then.
Rosey says
All good tips. The last one about the warranty is so spot on because when your factory warranty wears out, they’ll be in touch to try and get you to extend it. You can decide on that one then. 🙂 Congrats on your new car!
Nikki Wayne says
These are really helpful tips! We are planning to buy a car one year from now and I will take notes of this.
Heather Lawrence says
We will be looking into replacing our mini van for something different in a couple of months so these tips are great!
We already are “looking” but haven’t found the right vehicle yet.
Inspiring Kitchen says
Oh, These are good things to remember for first-time buyers. I’m sure many would find this useful as buying a new car is quite a big investment 🙂
Valerie says
Cute ride. I love the pics and the new car. Congrats my friend. Great tips.
Momina Arif says
Congratulations on your new car, an these tips are great, will be sure to keep these in mind when I buy myself one
Hannah says
So many great tips and I am definitely going to keep them in mind!
Jeanine says
So thankful for your tips. My husband and I have been talking about both getting our licences (we don’t have them can you believe that?! I never have!) and I have no idea anything about car buying. the kia soul looks great too bad it wouldn’t fit our whole family!
Dia All The Things I Do says
Congrats on your new car. I also had a Sunfire it died on me in college (multiple times) I bought my first brand new car 2 years ago and did it all online. I even started a bidding war and got a great deal. I think the next time I buy a new car it will be the same way. They brought it to me and all I had to do was sign the paperwork none of that waiting all day at the dealership.
Melissa Dixon says
That looks like a really cool car. My mom would love it and she is currently looking for a new car. I will have to share this with her.
Michelle @ DishesAndDustBunnies.com says
In a couple years we’ll be in the market for a new car so I really appreciate these tips – especially since I have no idea what I’m doing when it comes to buying one! It makes me so nervous! lol
Samantha Reveley says
After driving the Cee’d as a rental, I fell in love. Kia make great cars, congratulations!
Samantha xo | Blended To Perfection
Julie @ Running in a Skirt says
What an adorable car!!! Congratulations!!! I still think about my first car… also a tiny- no power ANYTHING– circa 1997 corolla. We went through so much together- so it’s always bittersweet.
Love the ride and these are some great tips.
Milena says
We are looking into getting a new car now. I can’t really remember buying my first car, but these are great tips.
The London Mum says
Hahaha I absolutely LOVE those pictures!!! Looks like a fab car. x
Nikki says
Happy New car!! I hope you have many years of happiness together!! 🙂
Jocelyn Cañasa Brown says
Congrats on the new car! It is a beauty! And thanks for the great tips. Buying a car can be stressful!
Jessica says
Wow. Great choice. research and planning are essential for buying car. Perfect tips you listed here. 🙂
Claire says
What a cute car! Congratulations on your deal!
Rosanne says
The first new car I got was a 1977 Honda Civic. We called it the pregnant rollerskate ar the frigging frostmobile. Best tip is to do your research.
Rachel Ferrucci says
Kis’s are great cars and I love your excitement. I was the same way when I bought my car! Great tips!
Sandy A La Mode says
I love your outfit! I also adore your new car. Having a new car is a great feeling <3
xo,
Sandy
Sandy a la Mode
Carol Bryant says
I’ve got a friend who has a Kia Soul. She says it ride smooth and has been getting really good gas mileage. Sounds like you picked a winner!
Adriana Lopez says
The Kia Soul is so cute and seems like is perfect for a small family or for single individuals. I would definitely consider KIA when changing my car for a new one.
Toughcookiemommy says
These are some great tips for buying a new car. I love your new Kia and I hope that it brings you some great years on the road.
Pam says
It is a beautiful car, isn’t it! I would love to have one.
Gwendolyn Mulholland says
I love my Kia soul and hope you are just as happy with yours. Our lease is up in a few months and I can’t wait to go shopping for a new one. It is important to stick to your guns and don’t back down. They will negotiate.
Toughcookiemommy says
I am noticing that a lot of people own this car. Maybe it’s something I should look into for my son when he starts driving.
valmg @ Mom Knows It All says
The Soul can hold people that are 6;6″? Wow! I’ve never been in one. Congrats on your new car!
Pam says
Love it! It is a cute car and I think it fits you perfect. I purchased my first new car in 1980. Oh my! It was a Chevy Chevette and very basic. No air conditioning. We have purchased many cars since then and have used many different negotiation techniques. I love your tips!
Carol Cassara says
Nice to know. I think it’s a cool looking car, but i haven’t owned one. Yet, that is.
Jenn says
These are great tips. I decided that I’m going to purchase a new car just after the holidays, and hand my car down to our teenage daughter. I’m hoping to find some good deals between Christmas and New Years.
sophia says
Great tips I also think you should look at the mileage on a car when buying it matters alot.
Stephanie Jeannot says
Sounds like an amazing car. I have never rode in or driven a Kia. I drive a Honda Accord now. Maybe that’ll be my next car.
Jaime Nicole says
Wow, congrats on your new car! I will be new car shopping in the next year so I will definitely use your tips!
Melanie Smith says
Thank you for these tips! That car looks wonderful.
Marcie W. says
I have owned my Kia Sorento for 4 years now and still love it just as much as the day I bought it. The Soul rocks and I wish you nothing but safe travels!
Star Traci says
Congrats on the new car! I have never actually negotiated a car before. Nor have I ever had a new from the dealership car – only new to me. LOL
So happy for you. You look amazing, BTW.
🙂
Traci
Chavonne Harvey says
Congratulations on buying a new car, it looks fantastic. I would love to own a new car but with our budget we have always went with preowned. I definitely agree with researching, that’s very important to know your options and to stay ahead of the game.
Cindy Ingalls says
My best advice is be prepared to leave. If you do your research and know how much you should be paying and they still try to pull one over on you, especially since you are woman, than leave. If they really want your biz, they will negotiate.
Melissa @ Married my sugar daddy says
You know what I really love about these tips is that you can apply them to any situation in which you are purchasing any big ticket item and they would apply and help you get the best rate for the item you are trying to purchase! The don’t be desperate one is REALLY worth remembering!
Elizabeth O. says
This reminds me of my first car, that was a long time ago. I’m glad you finally decided to replace yours, that kia looks really good! I think Kia Vergara would make a great name! Anyway, thanks for the tips, I’ll be sure to show these to my daughters so that they know what to do when they finally decide to get their first car.
Sarah says
Congrats. The Kia Soul looks like a fantastic car to have. I love it. Glad you shared some tips too for other people buying a car soon!
Amy Jones says
You look so happy and lovely with your new car haha congratulations! Enjoy it
Meagan says
This is a cute car. These are also some helpful tips for new car buyers.
Neely (@Neelykins) says
YAY for a new car. My dad works for Toyota so I’ve never really car shopped!
Rhian Westbury says
I was lucky enough to inherit my first car from a family member but I do find that it saves money to sell your old car privately so you can negoiate more on price than trading in x
Barbara Chapman says
Congratulations on buying your Kia. When you go to a car dealership you are basically attacked, but it is good to know how to handle the salesmen.
Cynthia says
These are all really good tips. We have had various models of a Kia for over 15 years. We have loved each and every one of them. We traded them in because we put high mileage on them, not because of any issues. I wanted a Soul – I think they are great.
La Petite Californienne says
Kias are so great! My best friend’s husband has one and it is one rocking, sturdy car. Thanks for the car searching/buying tips!
Mitch says
Congrats on the new car! I love Kia’s, I think you will be very happy with your choice!
Lisa Favre says
Nice ride! I have heard very good things about the Kia Soul – you seemed to have made a great purchase.
Jenn @ EngineerMommy says
This sounds like a great car that would be a fabulous ride! It’s so important to do one’s research when buying a car. Making sure you’re getting a good deal is imperative.
Christy Garrett says
We just traded in my husband’s car for a newer model too. I have considered buying a soul simply because it sits a bit higher off the ground. I have trouble getting in and out of my husband’s car.
Ana De- Jesus says
I really feel that your Kia matches your personality down to a T and here’s a secret I love quirky cars I think they are great!
tara pittman says
Car buying is a game to them. Know your prices and dont let them win.
Brandy says
That’s such a cute car! Those are all really important things to keep in mind when buying a car!
Sam | North East Family Fun says
fab tips and I love the look of your new car. We have just bought a new (second hand) car too as our old one was also getting too much to repair.
Gingermommy says
We always buy used but I dream of having a new car. These tips will come in handy for sure. The car looks great! Congrats
Amy Desrosiers says
I actually bought last year’s model of the Soul this year. It is such a great car and I am so happy I made the choice to get one.
Chanelle says
I love mine too!
Danielle says
Thanks for the tips! We’re looking to buy a new car within the month, before moving across the country and we can use all the tips we can get. Although it’s not the first time we’ve bought a car, it’s been many years since we have so we’re kind of starting all over.
lisa says
These are all great tips. I really like this car too! I have purchased a few vehicles in my years and it’s important to find a dealership you trust too.
Karen Glatt says
Get the Extended warranty. It really helped my sister with her new car. She gets free oil changes for 8 years and maintenance and a longer warranty than 2 years.
Chanelle says
I didn’t have to since Kia has a 10 year/100,000 mile warranty but it’s a great option if you need it!
Tiina A says
Wonderful tips! I have never bought a car but I have sold one! Great styling! I’m not a car person and while living in LA I only had a bicycle to get places 😀
Catherine S says
I agree, they are wonderful tips. I always shop around at more than one dealer. Some will give you a better deal than others.
Claudia Krusch says
It’s great to get a new car. I need a new one! I hate the negotiating part and fighting to get a fair price and interest rate! Loved your new car and post!
Nellwyn says
Congrats and thanks for the advice! I’ve never bought a car since I live in a big city but I know I would be really overwhelmed by such a big purchase! I’ll definitely keep your advice in mind for the future.
Colleen Lanin says
It’s so much fun to get a new car. Going out and finding the vehicle that suits your personality perfectly. And, yes, you HAVE to negotiate. Dealers want to get as much from you as they can.
Heather S-G says
I really like the look of the KIA Soul, so I’m glad to learn even more about it. But what I really love? Your shirt! Hello Newman. ha ha ha!
Dee says
These are some awesome tip that you gave. I did make the mistake of telling the sales person of what I want pay a month for my new car, but it worked out fine. Its in my budget and I can pay extra to help get it down.
Jeanette says
Great tips! We just got a new car and negotiation is a BIG! We needed a certain price and I didn’t waiver and we finally got it!
Candy says
New car smell. We have two Kia’s and love them both.
LaaLaa says
Your new car looks gorgeous, I love a black car. I purchased my first car just over a year ago now so especially for a first timer this brought back a lot of memories of pushy dealers.
Tania Potter - Soul Sense Coaching says
We are actually in the same position as you right now, a fully paid up car that really needs to be replaced. We are just dreading the thought of car payments again. Your tips are great and will come in very handy. Enjoy the lovely new addition to your family!
Aimee Smith says
Congratulations! Love that color! I always say take all the time you can, I swear they can tell when you NEED a new car right then and take advantage of that!
Janis @MommyBlogExpert says
Kia is a great car, I don’t own one but that’s my first choice whenever I need a rental. And I love those photos of you lying on the hood of the car — it adds so much personality to your automotive review.
Nancy @ whispered inspirations says
Great tips and congrats on the new car! I love what Kia has done!
Sarah says
Mmm black looks sleek, how beautiful!
Ann Bacciaglia says
I love your new car! Kia makes amazing vehicles. I always bring my Son with me to look at cars. He loves to do the research.
Lena B says
That is so cool – NEW CAR is just an exciting start for many possibilities. Love your car buying tips – and yes, getting insurance quotes ahead of time is super important to avoid nasty surprises
Catherine S says
Congratulations on your new car. We had a 2011 Kia Soul and we really love it. I was surprised by how much room they have.
Dawn McAlexander says
That car looks really nice! I had a Pontiac Sunfire at one time, too. I loved that car. Kia has some really nice cars though. I love the Soul.
Chanelle says
Kia has been making great cars lately for sure! My Sunfire really served me well. RIP 🙂
Pam says
My daughter and son in law bought a Kia Soul as their first car. I was surprised how nice it has been for them!
Kimberly Grabinski says
Oh it’s sooooo pretty! I remember my first car that i bought myself right after I got my first job out of college. I ORDERED it from the dealership so it was exactly how I wanted it. For weeks and weeks I stared at the photo of my car in the brochure until finally it was ready and I was able to pick it up. I’ll never forget it! It was black too.
Chanelle says
Ahhhh it’s so fun getting EXACTLY what you want!!
Sherry says
We had to purchase 2 vehicles this past year and could have really used these tips. I love that they have Bluetooth. I love being able to connect hands-free and play my Spotify playlist.
Brenda Kight says
Great tips for buying a car. I love the Kia soul!
Stacie @ Divine Lifestyle says
What a sweet ride! I love the styling. And it sounds like its got as much power as you do!