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Car shopping with Liz’s Mom

Avoiding the heartbreak of a bad decision

[November 1, 2010]

Elisabeth Hooker, STCU education outreach officer

A little over 41 years ago, in the spring, Mom went shopping for a car and came home with a husband.

Funny how things happen. One moment you’re on track, then the unpredictable happens, and you find yourself with something completely different.

After the initial "inspection," Dad called Mom and asked her if she was interested in the vehicle. Her reply? "I'm more interested in the guy selling the car." Six months later they were married.

My father may have been one heck of a salesman, but Mom bought the car from someone else.

Mom lost her heart, but she was a savvy car shopper. Six years ago, when I purchased my first post-college car she came shopping with me. Mom has a few simple rules that I made sure to follow:

• Never fall in love with a car, it will only break your heart. Research before you shop, but never set your heart on a brand, model, year or color. Know what you need from the car before you step on the lot and come up with several options that fit your safety and travel needs.
• Check Blue Book and Consumer Reports so you know a fair price for the vehicles that fit your needs. Also, call your insurance agent to learn how much your options will affect your monthly premiums.
• It's generally better to buy used. A shiny new car will wear out, but the monthly payments won't. Let the original owner deal with the bulk of the depreciation.
• Get pre-approved. Shopping with a pre-approved loan shows that you've done your research and will not be taken advantage of.
• Figure out how much you can afford monthly. Make a "payment" to yourself for about six months. If you are able to save the money, you'll have a tidy down payment and know exactly how much car you can afford. Once you know how much you hope to borrow, you can apply online or in person.
• It's OK to walk away. It can be hard to separate emotion from the buying process, but there will be another car.

While you are shopping, just remember, "What would Liz's Mom Do?" 

• Be up front and honest and truthful.
• Get all the facts and figures.
• Call your credit union.
• Think it over carefully and take your time.
• Make your decision when you have all the facts.
• Use common sense and don't give in to emotion.

I can't guarantee you'll come home with a husband, but I'm sure you'll find a great car.