Pour consulter la version francophone de cet article, cliquer ici : 5 questions à se poser avant d'acheter sa prochaine voiture

With the arrival of spring, many Quebecers start thinking about replacing their car with a newer model or acquiring the car of their dreams. Whether for performance, insurance-cost saving, safety, or even to reduce their carbon footprint, the motivations vary, but the questions remain similar. Here are five questions you should ask yourself before making any car purchase to ensure the best possible choice.

New, used, or hybrid?

Since a car loses more than a third of its value in the first year, buying a used vehicle is an attractive option. However, there is also a third option to consider: hybrid or electric used cars. With the rise of green technology, you could make a good deal while reducing your fuel costs. In Quebec, you benefit from excellent warranties to protect you from unscrupulous sellers. The seller must display an all-inclusive price, the mileage, and inform you of any defects. They must also allow you to take a test drive and have an inspection done, allowing you to confirm the good condition of the mechanics and the body. If the inspection is not conclusive, they must refund your deposit.

Financing: is it always a good idea?

Purchasing a new or used vehicle often requires financing. While this can make the purchase of a vehicle more accessible, it’s important to understand the loan terms. Interest rates can vary greatly, and some loans include hidden fees or unfavorable clauses. Be sure to compare different options carefully before committing to a financing contract. Sometimes, it may also be wise to check with your bank to see if they can offer you a better financing plan than the car dealerships.

Buying from an individual or a dealer?

If you're buying a used vehicle, compare prices carefully. It may sometimes be more advantageous to deal with an individual, in terms of price and the condition of the car, especially if the owner has maintained it well. Ensure that the seller is not a fake individual, a dealer posing as the vehicle owner. This type of fraud, called a "curbside sale," may seem more appealing but carries significant risks. If the vehicle is not insured or registered, this should raise a red flag.

Car Proof or SAAQ?

If you are still considering purchasing a used vehicle, consult the Office de la protection du consommateur to check if the dealer has received complaints. Then, send a request to the SAAQ for the vehicle's transaction and ownership history. You can also order a CarProof, for a small fee, to see if the vehicle has been involved in an accident, stolen, or tampered with. The CarProof report also provides additional information, such as any recalls performed on the vehicle and whether major repairs have been made. Finally, don’t forget to check the RDPRM to ensure the car is not tied to any outstanding debts.

Purchase or lease?

For new vehicles, buying the vehicle, either without financing or with accelerated payments, is the most economical option. Leasing is a good choice if you can’t resist changing vehicles every two years. However, leasing comes with limitations, such as an annual mileage cap set by the contract and penalties for exceeding it. Dealers benefit by offering six-year financing with attractive monthly payments, but it’s the consumers who bear the costs since they will have to pay interest over that entire period. If your finances don’t allow you to pay in full, you can also look for a slightly older model under warranty to reduce your loan amount.

And what about insurance?

Of course, for your insurance needs, there's ClicAssure. You can quickly compare the best offers from our partners in just a few clicks. This can help you find the best options based on your profile, whether you are a young driver or have several years of driving experience. You’ll also notice that some cars are much more expensive to insure than others, which can influence the choice of the vehicle you buy. Take a few minutes to fill out our form and compare different car models. Also, remember to factor insurance costs into your overall budget to avoid any surprises once the purchase is finalized.