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How to Buy a Hybrid Car

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With scientists warning of the hazardous effects of old cars and poor gas mileage, hybrids are becoming the new wave of fuel-efficient vehicles, almost acting as a bridge between gasoline and electric cars. However, before you begin your search for the next hybrid vehicle, there are a few important details and considerations than must be understood. After all, these cars are new to the American fleet and consumers should fully understand the potential short-term and long-term consequences, positive or negative, of a hybrid vehicle. Below, I will list the steps for purchasing a hybrid car.

Steps

Verify that you are looking to purchase a hybrid vehicle and not a traditional one. Be aware that while hybrid cars do save money at the pump, there is also a greater upfront cost. If you only keep a car for a few years, then a hybrid car will not save you money in the long term. If you keep vehicles for over ten years, then a hybrid vehicle is a much more cost-effective.
Determine what type of hybrid car you are looking for. Are you looking for a small hybrid car with excellent gas mileage, or are you looking for a hybrid SUV or family car capable of transporting multiple family members in a comfortable fashion. All of this must be taken under consideration before even beginning to look for a hybrid vehicle.
Determine what price fits your financial situation.Find out from the dealer what your initial down payment will be along with future monthly payments. Evaluate your annual budget and be sure the hybrid car you are interested in is a wise financial decision.
Research the estimated battery life for the hybrid car. Make sure that you are aware of how long the battery lasts. Unlike traditional cars, these batteries require less maintenance but can cost over $3,000 dollars to replace. Some batteries may last only a few years while others may last up to ten. Check with a reputable company such as Consumer Reports to verify that the information your dealer is telling you is accurate.
Research all warranties on the hybrid vehicles. Warranties are often an indicator of the quality of a car. Hybrid cars with longer warranties generally mean the car will be more reliable in the long-term.
Look for possible tax rebates or credits on select vehicles.With the Obama Administration pushing a greener America and higher standards, keep your ear open for any potential tax benefits that might arrive soon before purchasing a car that is not eligible.
Finally, make sure you are comfortable in the hybrid car. Does it meet your safety standards? Do you feel cramped in the front seat and find yourself stiff after every ride? The bottom line is that no one likes to ride in an uncomfortable car. Many hybrids are smaller to improve fuel-efficiency, but make sure you find the right fit for you. Better gas mileage is not always the best option if you hate every minute of the drive.

Tips

Don’t rush your purchase.
Do your research.
Be absolutely sure that you can afford a hybrid car before buying it.
Look at multiple dealers for the best overall package.
Look for average maintenance costs of the vehicle.
Determine whether purchasing a hybrid is better than waiting for a new electric vehicle.
Keep an eye on possible tax benefits.

Warnings

Some hybrid batteries do not last very long and are very expensive to replace.
Costs tend to run higher than most vehicles.
Less information is known about long-term durability of hybrid vehicles.
New electric vehicles may become available within the next few years.
Hybrid is a relatively loose term.
Don’t expect superb gas mileage just because it is labeled as a hybrid.
Hybrid cars may sacrifice some visually appealing elements to make the car more aerodynamic.

Things You’ll Need

Reputable dealer
Financial ability to purchase a hybrid vehicle
Outside source of information and research
Information about short and long-term maintenance
Understanding of hybrid battery
Strong background of others‚
Reviews of the hybrid vehicle
Quality Warranties
Willingness to keep the hybrid car for approximately ten years or more

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Sources and Citations

“Green Car Buying Guide.” CNET. <http://reviews.cnet.com/hybrid-car-buying-guide/>.
“Car Buying Advice.” Consumer Reports. April 2009. <http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/cars/car-buying-advice/guide-to-new-car-buying/-narrow-your-choices/how-much-can-you-spend/0701_how-much-can-you-afford-to-spend.htm>.
“Buying a Hybrid.” <http://buyingahybrid.com/>.
Powell, Philip. “What You Should Know About Hybrid Cars.” About. <http://cars.about.com/cs/familysedans/a/hybrid_explain.htm>.
Naughton, Keith. “Assaulted Batteries.” 27 May 2009. Newsweek. <http://www.newsweek.com/id/138808>.
“Hybrid vs. Gasoline Vehicle Comparison – Are Hybrid Vehicles Worth it?” Million Dollar Journey. <http://www.milliondollarjourney.com/hybrid-vs-gasoline-vehicle-comparison-are-hybrids-worth-it.htm>

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