Investing in a car can be an expensive endeavor, and one of the most crucial decisions is whether to purchase new or used.
Shopping for a used car can offer several benefits, but you must also weigh the potential drawbacks to make an informed decision.
1. Reliability
Reliability is a crucial factor when searching for your next vehicle. To measure its dependability, look into the manufacturer’s warranty.
Your car’s warranty should cover maintenance expenses and prevent you from being out of pocket for unexpected repairs.
Additionally, some new vehicles come with complimentary roadside assistance – especially handy if you find yourself stuck out in the sticks.
New cars typically boast the latest technology, such as a navigation system or advanced infotainment display. However, if you’re looking to save money on maintenance expenses, buying used may be your better bet.
2. Ease of Shopping
One major benefit of purchasing a used car is that you can get one at an incredible discount compared to buying new. This can be particularly advantageous for those on tight budgets.
Another advantage is that used vehicles don’t depreciate as quickly as new ones, meaning you won’t have to worry about losing money in the initial years.
Additionally, dealerships rarely upsell you on additional features or add hidden fees to the sticker price – this can add hundreds of dollars onto the cost of a new vehicle, making it more advantageous to purchase used instead.
3. Flexibility
One of the advantages to purchasing a pre-owned car is that it’s usually much more budget friendly than purchasing new. Your down payment and monthly payments will be lower, which can make a major difference in your budget.
Shopping for a used car can be done through various channels, such as visiting dealerships or online sites. But it’s essential that you get the perfect vehicle at an attractive price. Here are some essential steps to take before making your purchase:
4. Insurance
By buying a used car, you can save money on auto insurance. But be sure to do your due diligence before making a purchase.
Your car’s make, model, trim level, year and body type can affect your premium. Be sure to double-check with your insurer about which factors are taken into account when they calculate it.
In general, newer vehicles tend to cost more to insure due to their greater repair cost. But other factors like your vehicle’s safety record and features may affect the cost of insurance for your particular policy.
Another factor that affects your premium is the cost of replacement parts. Having parts that are easier to obtain or less expensive to replace can help lower costs associated with certain coverage types.
5. Value
Although it’s understandable why some people would opt for a brand-new car, buying used one can actually be an excellent way to save money on transportation. Not only is the purchase price less, but with most used cars you are usually able to get a nicer model than with new.
One of the largest expenses when owning a car is depreciation. From the moment you drive a new vehicle off the lot, its value starts to decrease – this is known as “immediate loss.” In some cases, this loss can amount to up to 20% of its original value.