Tips for First Time Car Buyers

Tips for First Time Car Buyers

Tips for First Time Car Buyers

Get Your First Car at Akins CDJR!

So, it’s finally time to buy your first car. While this is certainly an exciting time, that excitement can be overshadowed by how overwhelming the process can be. Here at Akins Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we want our customers to be at ease when buying their first car. That’s why we’d like to offer some tips on how to find the right vehicle for you that fits your budget and meets all your driving needs. Continue reading below to learn more, then be sure to check out our extensive new and used inventory right here on our website!

Set a reasonable budget

As you would with any significant purchase, it's critical that you set a realistic budget for your first car and stick to it. Car loans are paid for monthly, therefore, it’s important to look at your monthly finances to see how much you can afford for a car payment. This information will help determine how much you can afford for a total cost. While looking at your finances, you should also look at how much you have saved up for a down payment, as this will help you get approved for a loan and lower your monthly payment. 

Get pre-approved for financing

Buying a car typically involves borrowing money from a financial institution and paying it back over time, otherwise known as financing. Getting pre-approved for financing helps give you the confidence in knowing how much you can spend before heading into the dealership. This helps you focus on the cars that are within your budget. Credit history is usually required to obtain financing. However, if you have little or no credit history, you can co-sign with someone with more established credit. Co-signing guarantees to the lender that the loan will be paid even if the primary owner can no longer meet the payments.

Choose your car

It’s easy to focus on the here and now when buying your first car. However, it’s important to think about what you’ll be using your car for in the future. For example, if you mostly commute by yourself and have a longer commute, a large SUV or truck wouldn’t be ideal. Conversely, if you plan on driving multiple people or carrying lots of cargo, an SUV or truck would be perfect for you. To determine what kind of car you need, take a look at your everyday commutes, how long they are, how many people you need to fit, and how much cargo space you need. You should also decide what features are important to you. This will ensure that your needs are met every time you get behind the wheel. 

Cars for sale near me

While buying your first car can be intimidating, there are ways to ease the stress and ride the wave of excitement that comes along with it. We hope that this page helps you narrow down your focus to the perfect car for you and your budget. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the professional sales team here at Akins Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Our friendly sales experts will gladly answer your questions and walk you through the entire car-buying process to make your first car-buying experience an enjoyable one. We look forward to earning your business!


All pricing and details are believed to be accurate, but we do not warrant or guarantee such accuracy. The prices shown above, may vary from region to region, as will incentives, and are subject to change. Vehicle information is based off standard equipment and may vary from vehicle to vehicle. Inventory is subject to prior sale. All prices are plus tax, title, and registration. New(not previously titled) are also plus Georgia Lemon Law fee. Any discounted prices may include factory dealer retained rebates. Must print ad to receive internet price. Call dealer for complete pricing details. *MSRP may include factory discount packages and any dealer installed accessory or add-on. We do not sell to consumers in the states of California and New York

Max payload/towing estimate ratings shown. Additional options, equipment, passengers, and cargo weight may affect payload/towing weights. See dealer for details.