Buying your first car is a significant milestone, and proactive planning ensures you get the Nissan you love at a price that works for you. While being a first-time car buyer may leave you feeling a little overwhelmed, at Palm Springs Nissan, we’re here to make your first car-buying experience smooth and stress-free. Here’s where you should start:
1. Figure Out Your Budget (And Stick to It)
Before you fall in love with a new sleek Nissan Sentra or the rugged Frontier, know what you can realistically afford. We’ll cover three key areas to focus on below (but don’t forget to factor in registration, taxes, and insurance in addition to those).
Monthly Payments
How much are you comfortable paying each month? Financial experts recommend keeping car expenses (e.g., loan, insurance, gas, maintenance, etc.) between 10% and 15% of your monthly income.
Down Payment
Bigger is better here. “The larger your down payment, the less you’ll need to borrow,” explains financial analyst Greg McBride, “leading to a shorter loan term, a lower interest rate, and fewer finance charges.”
Loan Pre-Approval
Walk in with buying power and an idea of what you can afford: Our finance team at Palm Springs Nissan can help you get fast pre-approval for a new or used Nissan.
From financing solutions like online credit approval to valuing your trade-in and more, we offer a wide range of financing options to ensure you’ll be behind the wheel of a Nissan car in no time.
2. Decide What You Need (Not Just What Looks Cool)
Sure, a high-performance Nissan GT-R or Nissan Z might turn heads on Palm Canyon Drive, but will it fit your daily lifestyle? The best cars for new drivers prioritize practicality over style.
Ask yourself:
- “How much do I drive?” Commuters may want a fuel-efficient vehicle, such as the Nissan Versa or Kicks.
- “Do I have passengers or gear to haul?” Consider a roomy SUV like the Nissan Rogue or Pathfinder.
- “Where am I going?” If weekend trips to Big Bear or Joshua Tree are your thing, AWD or 4WD is worth considering.
3. New vs. Used: What’s Right for You?
Both have their pros and cons.
Used cars usually cost less upfront and may lower your insurance rate.
New cars come with warranties, the latest tech, and that unbeatable new-car smell.
At Palm Springs Nissan, we offer a wide selection of pre-owned Nissans and new Nissan vehicles, all featuring the quality you can trust. And if you’re not sure what’s best? We’re happy to walk you through it.
4. Take a Test Drive (And Ask Questions)
It’s always a good idea to try before you buy. A test drive isn’t just about how the car handles. It’s your chance to see how the vehicle fits your everyday life, whether you’re commuting in Palm Springs, working in Cathedral City, or road-tripping across the Coachella Valley. You can schedule a test drive at Palm Springs Nissan online and see which car feels right when you get behind the wheel.
5. Understand the Fine Print
Here at Palm Springs Nissan, we believe in giving our buyers straightforward, honest, and transparent information. Our goal is to help you understand the fine print before signing the dotted line. Here are a few examples of what to ask when you get to the paperwork part of your car buying journey:
- Ask about dealership perks, like free maintenance or service discounts
- Know the total cost of the car (not just the monthly payment)
- Review the warranty and what it covers
- Understand the terms of your loan or lease, including how much you’re total interest payments will be at the end of the term
Buy Your First Car in Palm Springs Today
Buying your first car is a major milestone, and we hope this first-time car buyer’s guide has been helpful. At Palm Springs Nissan, our friendly and knowledgeable staff is ready to answer any questions you have about how to buy a car. Visit our showroom in Cathedral City to meet our qualified team, explore vehicles within your price range, and begin the process with confidence. Whether you’re shopping new or used, financing or leasing, call us at 760-328-2800 or contact us online today!
