When you go to a dealership, the aim is to leave with the best car at the best price. Don't get taken for a ride. Buyers should be aware of their rights and the possible pitfalls of entering into a car sale agreement.

The fine line between smart marketing and misleading messages is becoming distinctly blurred. Clever worded ads offer ‘unbelievable’ deals ‘from as little as R635 per month’. It sounds like a bargain, doesn’t it? But, (and yes, there is always the dreaded ‘but’) they’ve conveniently excluded VAT charges and hidden payments like a high deposit and residual fees, which are shrewdly masked behind four annoying words: terms and conditions apply. In the end, instead of getting a new car for R635 per month, it actually costs much more.

Be patient

Buying a car shouldn’t be a speedy process – it takes time and comparative research. Don’t waste big bucks on an impulse purchase; instead wait for incentives like rebates, sales events and end-of-year bargains. Also, drop by your local dealership occasionally and chat to your possible salesperson to stay on his radar, showing that you are serious about a new car, but not desperate. Just don’t wait until your old engine breathes its last and you need a new car pronto.

Be sensible

• Test drive various cars and compare prices. Avoid the impulsive decision to buy a car on your first day.
• Take an astute friend to help you from making rash decisions and to keep a pushy, commission-hungry salesperson at bay. 
• Carefully examine a pre-owned car or have the car checked by a professional to ensure that everything is to your satisfaction. Insist that all missing equipment is replaced, and all faults corrected – or at least get the salesperson’s commitment in writing – before you get behind the wheel.
• Always read the small print before you sign on the dotted line.

Questions you should ask:

• What is the financing cost/options? Compare the invoice and sticker price; ask about rebates, deposits, etc.
• How does its overall performance compare to other cars in the same price range?
• What does the motor plan include?
• What are the available extras?
• What are the available colors?
• What is the delivery cost?
• What is the warranty?

Don't be shy about asking questions. After all, you're going to have a long-term relationship with your baby, so you might as well be thorough and certain of your choice.