Buying a car should be exciting, not stressful. Yet, for many buyers in Oklahoma City and beyond, what starts as an exciting search quickly turns into a financial headache. Why? Because they focus on the car itself but overlook key details like financing options and hidden fees.
These small mistakes can add thousands to the final price. But here’s the good news: you don’t need to be a finance expert to avoid these mistakes. A few simple but powerful strategies can help you avoid common money traps.
Sounds interesting? Then, keep reading. In this blog, we’re breaking down four must-know tips to help you save big—whether you're buying new or used.
Buy a Less Popular Model
Everyone wants the latest, trendiest car. But did you know that buying a less popular model can save you a lot of money? Dealers charge more for high-demand vehicles because they know people will pay. Meanwhile, similar cars with fewer flashy features often sit on the lot, making them prime candidates for discounts.
For example, SUVs and pickup trucks are hot right now, but sedans and smaller cars often come with better deals. You might find a car with the same reliability, safety, and performance—but for thousands less. Another smart move?
Look at last year’s model. A car that’s just one year older can be significantly cheaper, even if it’s nearly identical to the latest version. So, compare similar models before deciding. You might be surprised how much you can save just by picking a slightly less popular option.
Consider Financing Options
Many people hesitate to take out a car loan, either because they don’t fully understand how financing works or because they assume they won’t qualify. The reality? Car loans are widely available, and there are financing options for almost every situation.
Banks, credit unions, and online lenders offer a variety of auto loans at different interest rates. Take some time to compare your options and find the best deal. If your credit score isn’t great, there’s no need to worry. Financing is still an option for you. Many dealerships offer Buy Here, Pay Here financing.
This option lets you make payments directly to the dealership instead of working with a bank or lender that requires a certain credit score. Plus, these financing plans are available for used cars, too, making them a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Wondering how to find such dealerships? Well, a simple online search with your location can point you in the right direction. For example, if you're in Oklahoma City, search for “buy here pay here OKC” or “buy here pay here near me.” This can help you find local dealerships that offer flexible financing options.
Buy at the Right Time
Believe it or not, when you buy a car can be just as important as what car you buy. Timing your purchase correctly can save you thousands. Here are some of the best times to buy:
End of the Month, Quarter, or Year – Dealerships have sales goals, and when they’re behind, they’re more likely to slash prices to meet their targets. So shopping at the end of the month or right before the new year can lead to major discounts.
Holiday Sales Events – Memorial Day, Black Friday, and New Year’s sales often come with huge price reductions and incentives.
When New Models Arrive – When dealerships start stocking new model-year vehicles, they’re desperate to clear out last year’s models. This leads to some of the biggest discounts of the year.
Research to Avoid Hidden Fees
Dealerships are known for sneaking in extra fees. And if you’re not paying attention, you could end up spending hundreds or even thousands more than necessary. One common fee to watch for is the dealer prep fee. This charge is often unnecessary, as most of the tasks it covers—like cleaning the car and checking fluids.
Some dealers also push unnecessary services like VIN etching, fabric protection, and paint sealants, claiming they’re essential. In reality, these services can be done for a fraction of the price elsewhere. Before signing anything, always ask for an itemized breakdown of fees.
If you spot a charge that doesn’t seem necessary, question it. Many dealerships will remove certain fees if you push back, so don’t be afraid to negotiate. A little extra effort here can save you a lot of money in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Buying a car doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. When you approach the process with a little knowledge and preparation, you can save thousands of dollars and avoid unnecessary expenses. The key is to be aware of the common mistakes that buyers make—and to take steps to avoid them.
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