One of the most complicated things about buying a car is registering it. That is why it is one of our services, you can feel free to leave it all to us. We know that the process can be stressful. Therefore, today we provide you with things to know before buying a car. These, about the registration process and in different scenarios.
Things to know before buying a car – New Cars
Buying a new car is an important decision. There are a lot of things to consider before buying it. Besides houses, it is the biggest investment in some people’s life. That’s why it is important to get your choice of a new vehicle right. Additionally, make smart decisions during the entire selection and purchase process.
Before you buy it
- Establish your budget. You need to know how much money you can spend on your new car and decide your method of payment, some people pay in cash, some people finance it and there is also people who lease it. When paying in cash, knowing your budget is easy. Just don’t forget to factor in the sales tax on the purchase. When financing or leasing, you’ll need to know how much you can spend on it a month, consider gasoline, insurance, etc.
- Determine what you need. Every person has different needs. What you need from a car depends on your lifestyle, occupation, age, etc. For example, if you are a student, you do not need something like a minivan. Studies show that the best car for a student is a medium-sized sedan. On the other hand if you are a parent, you need a bigger car. Or if you are a landscaper you’ll need a pick-up truck. Consider reliability, fuel economy, safety, technology, conveniences and capacity before you consider factors like comfort, styling, image or color. This is an easy decision because in most cases, people know what they need and want.
- Get estimated insurance quotes.You might also want to consider the insurance rates for your vehicle before you buy it so that you can consider it on your monthly vehicle expenses.
After you bought it
Most agencies take care of the registration process but not all of them do. Car registration in California is a necessary task for vehicle owners to complete before they get out on the road with their new car. Gathering specific vehicle registration information such as the car’s production year and make and model are necessary prior to completing the process.Motor vehicle registration is necessary for all drivers who want to operate their cars without consequence.
When a car has come into new ownership, that motorist must ensure the proper registration application. The registration of vehicle information required is the vehicle make, model, and year, as well as the type of vehicle it is. To get car registration, owners also need to provide the vehicle identification number (VIN) and their driver’s license number. Getting auto registration in California for a new car only requires the owner to provide proof of the appropriate insurance required by the state. Base DMV registration fees include a $46 charge for initial registration and a $24 fee for the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
Things to know before buying a car – Used Cars
With the high price tag of new cars and the quick depreciation rate of new vehicles, many people look for used cars for sale instead. And while investing in a used car may seem like a sensible option, buyers still need to be smart in their choices.
Before you buy it
Used cars that are sold with hidden damage may become costly problems for the unsuspecting buyer. To avoid purchasing a defective vehicle, here’s a checklist of ways to help check the condition and value before buying a used car.
- Look carefully at the vehicle’s exterior and interior. The conditions play an important role in the value. If there is existing or previous damage that you know of, make sure it was repaired professionally. Always take a good look at the engine and parts, dirty and rusted parts can be an indication that there might be trouble.
- Go for a test drive. Make sure you can get a good feel of the way the car performs and responds. Check if there are any unusual engine or brakes noises and if the electronics work.
- Perform a Leak Test. Any car that is leaking fluids is generally a red flag for a needed repair. While you’re on a test drive, take a moment to park in a clean area on the road, and let the car run for at least 30 seconds. Then, move the car and do a visible inspection for any leaking substances.
- Figure Out a Fair Purchase Price. To help ensure that you are being charged a fair price, make sure to compare prices for the same make, model and year with several sources. If it has pending registration fees, get to an agreement with the seller on who is going to pay for those, you could discount it from the purchase price.
- Review the Vehicle History Report. A vehicle history report can help you see title problems, ownership history, service points and previous accidents, large or small. Make sure the information matches. These reports are available through us.
After you bought it
Now it’s time to put your car under your name, to determine how much the DMV is going to charge to do the name transfer you can come to one of our offices or call us and provide us with the plate number, the last 5 digits of the VIN number, price and date of purchase and your zip code.
- The previous owner should do a notice of transfer and release of liability but that is up to them.
- You’ll need proof of ownership signed by the previous owner (your title or pink slip).
- You will need to perform a Smog Check.
- Odometer disclosure for vehicles less than 10 years old.
- You will also need to fill out some forms that we can provide for you.
Things to know before buying a car – Cars Registered Out-Of-State
If you are a California resident and acquire a vehicle from another state, it must be certified to meet California smog laws to be registered in California. This includes certain diesel-powered vehicles. DMV cannot accept an application to register a vehicle in California that does not qualify for registration (California Health and Safety Code §§43150 – 43156).
Before you buy it
You should do what we mentioned before for buying a used car, the same applies but you will want to know if it is California Certified, check the emission label under the hood because not all new vehicles are manufactured to be sold in California. Many manufacturers make vehicles to be sold only in the other 49 states. These vehicles (49-state) are made with smog equipment that meets federal emission standards, but not California standards. California-certified (50-state) vehicles are made to be sold in California but there are exemptions.
After you bought it
Now it is time to transfer the car to you. The registration process it’s different from regular registration, you will also need to fill out forms which we can provide. You will need:
- Out-of-State title or proof of ownership and/or the out-of-state registration card.
- DMV fees, we can give you an estimate if you provide us with the date first operated in CA, purchase date and price, model year, acquisition source, acquired market value, use/sales tax paid to another state and your zip code.
- Smog certification.
- Weight certificate.
Remember that all cars in California must have insurance, this does not apply to other vehicles but it is always worth it to protect your investment by getting insurance. We can offer you a lot of different insurance options. We’ll choose what best fits your necessities and budget. If you need further assistance and/or if you have any questions about vehicle registration, feel free to contact us.