From Cheerleader to Happy Customer

Paula’s new ride!

It’s financial planning month! I decided to take this opportunity to talk about my most recent experience buying a car. Financial literacy is a key part of financial planning. It may bring to mind budgeting and credit cards, but it’s also necessary for things like buying a home or getting a car loan. From the various award applications and media pitching I continually work on for Capital One, I was familiar with the AutoNavigator program, which allows car buyers to prequalify for an automotive loan, browse, and then buy a car all before setting foot inside a dealership.  

I knew I was part of their target audience and was excited to put it to the test because I almost never have a chance to experience my clients as a customer, only as a cheerleader. I work from home, so I don’t need a car often. But when I do it’s usually for an event when an Uber can easily get lost in the traffic, during rush hours (the most expensive time to use a car service), and always when I could use a little extra time instead of being at the mercy of a driver who may arrive anywhere between 2-15 minutes from when I order it. So, I decided to give AutoNavigator a try.  

Once I’d selected the car I wanted from a list provided by Capital One, I took advantage of the company’s online chat feature. A representative stayed in communication with me through the final approval. The down payment, the monthly payments, and final approval were all done ahead of speaking to a dealer. My first conversation with the dealer was simply to ask when I was coming to get the car – no final price haggling necessary! At the dealership, I test drove the car, signed the paperwork and then drove away! Capital One’s AutoNavigator experience not only met my expectations, but it surpassed them. The next time I need a car, I’m going to hit the cruise control and buy it the same way. 

• Paula Paggi, Dala team and AutoNavigator enthusiast