First time buying a car? There are a few things you should know before purchasing a vehicle, and it is important to know what expenses go into it. If you get a car financed, you will need to calculate the monthly payments into your budget. As we all know, insurance is a must, the amount of gas you use weekly, routine maintenance and of course some unexpected repairs that may pop up.

Monthly Car Payments

Before purchasing a car, it is important to make sure the amount financed and monthly payment is within your budget. Once you know what your maximum amount is, you can begin shopping! This is just the beginning of expenses that come along with purchasing a car.

Auto Insurance

This is one of the most important things that come with buying a car. You need to at least have liability coverage, by law in the state of Texas. Insurance protects your vehicle against unexpected damages. It’s smart to get several different quotes that include features that best meet your needs before making a decision.

Filling up Your Gas Tank

Fuel of course is a necessity when you have purchased a vehicle. You should keep in mind how often you travel on a daily basis, in order to estimate the expenses in filling up at the pump, before you decide on a certain vehicle.

Registration/Inspection

Every year you will need to pay registration and inspection expenses, as required by law. These fees vary, so it’s important to know how much this expense will be for you, so you can be prepared for this cost every year.

Repairs

If you purchase a used vehicle, you will need to decide on purchasing a warranty/maintenance agreement for your vehicle, to help with covering unexpected repairs. This expense will vary depending on the type of warranty you choose. If a car is brand new, it normally comes with a standard warranty to cover your vehicle. If you choose not go with a warranty, you may want to consider putting some money aside, just in case!

These are just a few of the things to consider when purchasing a car. Make sure you know what you are getting yourself into and are covered all around.