How to Buy Bluetooth Telematics for Your Car

"Smart cars" can navigate, monitor video and offer hands-free communication through wireless technology. Bluetooth Telematics provides in-car communications and computing. If you want to buy Bluetooth Telematics for your car, just follow these steps.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Figure out how a Bluetooth device will enhance your driving experience. Do you want easy navigation, endless entertainment and communication or an all-in-one package with everything? Once you have defined your needs, it's easier to select features.

2. Ask friends who already have Bluetooth Telematics in their cars. You also can test-drive a friend's car and use the Bluetooth devices to learn what it's like to drive while talking on a hands-free phone or listening to a song through a built-in MP3 player.

3. Decide on a budget, because it can be expensive to install Bluetooth Telematics in your car. Aside from the actual product price, you also must pay installation fees.

4. Ask your car dealership what kind of Bluetooth features your car can accommodate. Most cars that can accommodate Bluetooth have built-in wireless devices. Make sure that the Bluetooth devices, such as the hands-free phone or monitor, are compatible with your car.

5. Negotiate with your dealer about the price, and ask for a special package or discount. If you don't want to purchase all the items from your dealer, you can buy individual items through online stores.

6. Check sites that offer reviews of the items and price comparisons. Purchase the product and ask about the warranty policy.

Tips & Warnings

• Instead of buying separate items from different stores, choose a factory-installed Telematics system. This is cheaper and much more convenient since it's all in one package.