After spending decades working in various jobs, your retirement years are a time to slow down and spend time doing things that make you happy. If you’re looking for a vehicle to transport you during your retirement years, it’s important to consider a few key tips. Buying a vehicle for your retirement years might not seem like a big decision, but you need to choose a vehicle that will match your lifestyle and is a financially responsible choice for you.

1. Find a Vehicle that Fulfills Your Lifelong Dreams

Is there a sports car that you have always dreamed of owning? Have you always wanted to repurchase the type of car that you first drove as a teenager? If there is a car that you have dreamed of driving, now is the time to find that vehicle. If you don’t see yourself driving your dream car for years to come but still want to experience it, you can consider your long-term rental or lease options instead.

2. Consider All of Your Financing Options

You know your exact monthly budget when you are retired. Figure out how much of the money set aside to cover your month of expenses can be used on a vehicle and insurance without causing you financial stress in the future. Before getting in debt on a vehicle, think about how long you expect to be driving that vehicle and how quickly you would like to get a loan paid off. Consider saving money by purchasing a used vehicle rather than buying one that is brand new.

3. Do Plenty of Research

Finding a car should be fun, but it can also be a lot of work. Research the types of vehicles that fit your budget and see which appeals the most to you. Look into the safety ratings of all vehicles you are considering purchasing. Find a vehicle that will be both fun to drive and a practical purchase.

4. Ask Friends and Family for Recommendations

You can learn a lot about different vehicles by talking with your friends and family. It can be especially helpful to reach out to those who are retired, like you, to see what they have been using to get around since retiring.

5. Look for the Vehicle That Matches Your Lifestyle

While considering a vehicle for your retirement years, think about the traveling you will do in that vehicle. Do you need a vehicle with extra cargo space? Think about the number of people who will be riding in the vehicle. Will you be hauling your grandchildren around in your vehicle or will you be the only one riding in it? Will the vehicle that you are considering require frequent maintenance work that will be expensive to pay for? You need to find a vehicle that matches your retirement lifestyle so you will be able to enjoy your retirement without worrying about your vehicle.

6. Don’t Be Afraid to Shop Around

When searching for a new vehicle, consider many dealerships. You will find different options, available at different prices when you shop through multiple dealers. Consider those who sell both used and new vehicles, and don’t be afraid to go out of your local area to find a good deal on a vehicle.

7. Think About the Long Term

You are growing older each day, and you should purchase a vehicle that will be easy to get into and out of as you age. Think about the resale value of the vehicle that you are considering to see if you will be able to get a good price on it when you decide that you no longer want to drive. Consider whether you will be able to keep up with a vehicle’s particular maintenance needs as time goes on.

You need a car to get you around in your retirement years so that you can keep going to activities and spending time with family and friends. Spend time thinking about what you desire most in a vehicle for your retirement years and research all of your options so you can make the best decision for you.