Before, buying a car at the right time meant the best time of year or day of the week to help you save money. With the coronavirus pandemic, however, people are questioning whether they can buy a car at all. Social distancing encourages individuals to try and avoid leaving the house as often as possible. However, some people need a car right now to do their jobs and earn the money they crucially need during this crisis. Due to the automobile industry going through a difficult time themselves, you’ll find that now’s a perfect time to buy a car because they’re much cheaper now. There are ways you can buy a new vehicle without risking too many lives.
Financial Security
Before determining whether you should go to a dealership, you have to make sure that you are in a position where you can’t wait until after the pandemic to purchase a new vehicle. One factor is financial security. If you can afford to buy a car in cash or pay it off over time, then you’re in the clear. Especially with the lower prices, a lot more people might find that they can get a new car right now. A loan of any kind might not be a good idea right now. You want to have enough money saved up or revenue coming in right now that will financially help you get a new car.
Desperate Situation
Some people can wait after the pandemic to get a new car because they don’t have any primary reasons to leave the house. Instead of driving to your favorite grocery store for supplies, you can take a walk to your local gas station. However, some are still working who need a car to drive to work. There is the option of ridesharing apps, as many drivers are taking measures to protect themselves and their passengers from this pandemic. You, understandably, might have second thoughts about being in an enclosed space with a stranger that’s been everywhere and encountered other people before you. If there’s absolutely no other way to transport to work, then you have a good reason to visit your dealership.
Local Shelter-In-Place Orders
You have good reasons to buy a car, but local stay-at-home guidelines restrict how your local dealerships can operate. The best thing you can do is look up what your domestic stay-at-home orders are. As of right now, dealerships are allowed to open in all 50 states. Some states, and local areas, have their restrictions. Multiple governors, like the one in Texas, have issued executive orders to open up the economy again gradually. Other states, like Minnesota, direct people to stay at home. You could also call your local dealership and see if you’re allowed to come and purchase a car from them.
New or Used Car?
Purchasing a new car or a specific make and model can be tricky. Auto manufacturers have temporarily stopped their production to ensure the health and safety of their employees. So far, a lot of dealerships are providing incentives for you to purchase a new car. Since used cars are usually cheaper, you might be better off buying a secondhand automobile. Most, if not all, vehicles are more affordable now. If you need a car for work or some other emergency, then it would be best to purchase a used vehicle.
Take Extra Precautions
Take what the health professionals say to heart. Practice social distancing, no matter where you go; stay about six feet apart from others who are out and about like you. Wash your hands often. Avoid touching your face. Don’t forget to wear a mask or a similar form of facial protection. Most importantly, stay updated on the ways you can protect yourself and others from getting infected.
The automobile industry has plummeted due to this crisis. Many can say that now is the right time to buy a vehicle due to the low prices. However, the right time isn’t just about affordability; it’s about risking your life. You do that every single time you leave your house. This activity can be detrimental to a lot of people and even deadly to others. You have to ask yourself if, in this particular situation, there’s no other way to survive unless you purchase a car.