What is buyer’s remorse?

I regret my car choice: what is buyer's remorse?

Buying a vehicle is an exciting experience – you browse a selection of motors, jump behind the wheel of your favourite model, and drive happily into the horizon.

However, in some scenarios, things don't necessarily go as planned, and the initial sense of excitement is gradually overshadowed by a feeling of regret.

Whether it's because you don't like how the car handles the road or are no longer sure about its aesthetics, you may begin to experience what is known as 'buyer's remorse'. But what is it exactly?

What is buyer's remorse?

Final decisions, in whatever situation, can stir up a wide range of different emotions. When you buy something and the money has been spent, the post-purchase phase can sometimes lead to regretful second thoughts – or 'buyer's remorse'.

When it comes to cars, there's no hiding that buying a vehicle is usually a costly, long-term commitment. This can favour a feeling of remorse in the short or long run – the bigger the investment, the more likely you are to regret your choice.

Buyer's remorse is usually accompanied by sentiments of anger, annoyance, or general disappointment. You may also find yourself going over the same thoughts repeatedly, such as whether you've spent too much on your car or if you've picked the vehicle you truly wanted.

Generally speaking, this is just a natural, temporary reaction to a big purchase that will fade as you slowly get used to your new motor. But there are circumstances where people are left with a vehicle that's just not right for them. So, what can you do to avoid this situation?

Tips to prevent buyer's remorse

Doing your research and browsing options that suit your budget are good ways to prevent buyer's remorse after your purchase.

However, there are many other handy tricks that can help you make the right choice and avoid feelings of regret in the long-term. For example:

1. Write a wish list 📝

Based on your budget and requirements, think about all the features and components that your ideal car needs to have. This could be anything from a spacious boot to a good range or infotainment system. Focusing on your priorities can help you identify a motor that best matches your needs, meaning you're less likely to have second thoughts about your vehicle once the deal is done.

2. Ask plenty of questions 💬

Don't be afraid to ask lots of questions, whether it's at the dealership or to your car finance provider. At First Response Finance, for instance, we are always open to questions and are happy to support you in any way we can, so don't hesitate to share doubts or double-check things you're unsure about with us. With all the answers you need, you can make a more confident choice and pick the perfect vehicle with peace of mind.

3. Go for a test drive 🚗

Before you commit to any car, it's always wise to take a test drive. This way, you can get a proper feel of what it's like to ride and make sure it suits your driving style. As you may know, each model has its own quirks, so finding out how your dream car functions can help you decide whether it really ticks all the right boxes.

Check out this blog to find out how to look after a used car, helping you to avoid a costly repair bill from your local garage! 👈