Buying your first car is an exciting milestone—but it can also be overwhelming if you’re unsure where to start. From evaluating your driving needs to managing budgets and shortlisting models, there’s a lot to consider. To help you navigate the process with ease, we’ve compiled 11 essential tips that every first-time car buyer should know.

Understand your usage first

Before you start browsing models, think about your day-to-day needs. Are you buying the car primarily for city commutes, weekend getaways, or family trips? This will help determine the size, fuel type, and even the features you truly need.

Pro Tip:

If you drive less than 20 km daily, go for a petrol car—it’s more affordable than diesel and will keep your upfront costs lower. For longer daily commutes (50 km+), diesel might make sense due to better mileage.

Choose the right body type

Your lifestyle will guide the best car body type for you:

  • Hatchbacks: Compact and easy to drive in cities, ideal for first-timers.
  • Sedans: More boot space and comfort, good for longer journeys.
  • SUVs/MPVs: Great for larger families, frequent road trips, and rough road conditions.

Budget smartly—Consider all costs

The ex-showroom price isn’t the full story. Factor in RTO charges, insurance, extended warranties, and annual maintenance.

Rule of Thumb:

Your car expenses (EMI + insurance + fuel + maintenance) should ideally be within 25% of your monthly income. If you earn ₹75,000/month, target a car with total monthly expenses under ₹18,750.

New vs. Used: Weigh the pros and cons

New cars offer peace of mind, updated tech, and manufacturer warranties.

Used cars are more affordable and depreciate slower but require careful inspection.

Tip:

If buying used, get a trusted mechanic to inspect the car and always check the service history.

Prioritize safety and practical features

Don’t get carried away with luxury add-ons. While features like a sunroof or large infotainment screen are nice, safety should come first.

Must-Have Features:

  • Dual airbags
  • ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
  • Rear parking sensors
  • Good crash-test ratings
  • Optional: Traction control, ADAS (if you find value in it)

Choose the right fuel type

Each fuel option has trade-offs:

  • Petrol: Cheaper to buy, ideal for short daily drives
  • Diesel: Higher initial cost, better mileage for long-distance users
  • CNG: Cost-effective but limited pump availability
  • Electric (EVs): Environment-friendly and low running cost, but charging infrastructure is still limited

Pro Tip:

City driver? An automatic transmission might be more convenient, though it’s slightly pricier and offers less mileage than manual.

Think about resale value

If you plan to upgrade in a few years, resale value matters. Factors like brand reputation, service history, and even fuel type (diesel may depreciate faster due to stricter emission norms) impact future pricing.

Research after-sales service

A car is a long-term commitment. Opt for a brand with a widespread service network and a reputation for hassle-free servicing.

Look For:

  • Proximity of service centers
  • Transparent pricing
  • Customer reviews

Account for maintenance costs

Beyond regular servicing, you’ll spend on tyres, brake pads, batteries, filters, and unexpected repairs.

Tip:

Buy cars known for reliability and consider extended warranty plans to avoid high future repair costs.

Read reviews and compare models

Before committing, compare specs, features, and ownership experiences. Use trusted platforms like Evfy for expert reviews and model comparisons.

Stay Updated:

Follow auto brands on Instagram or YouTube for new launches, tech updates, and owner feedback.

Test drive and negotiate smartly

Always take a test drive—feel how the car handles, brakes, and accelerates. Check comfort, visibility, and overall feel.

Negotiation Tips:

  • Visit multiple dealerships
  • Watch for unnecessary add-ons
  • Look out for year-end discounts or festive offers

Buying your first car doesn’t need to be overwhelming. With these 11 tips in your checklist, you’ll be able to make a confident, informed decision that suits your lifestyle and budget.