When it’s time to buy a new vehicle, the first question a lot of consumers ask themselves is whether to buy a new or used automobile. With auto makers churning out and selling hundreds of new model cars and used cars retaining their value better and lasting longer, there is a massive abundance of quality car selections just waiting for a new owner. The choice to buy used or new boils down to what the consumer can afford and what makes them feel the most comfortable.
Benefits of Buying Pre-Owned Vehicles
For buyers who don’t have a lot of cash, purchasing a used car affords them the most vehicle for their money. A wide range of fully loaded and well-maintained used cars can be readily available for under $10,000. The same value rules don’t apply for new cars. There are only a few new cars that cost less than $10,000, and those cars are often small, have a manual transmission or come scaled back with very few features.
If you make the choice to buy a used car, you’ll have no trouble finding a late model vehicle that is about three to four years old for less than half the price of an average new car simply because new cars depreciate in value almost the moment a new buyer drives off the lot. Used cars can be a safer investment in this way.
Drawbacks of Buying Used Rather Than New
Like buying any used item, buying used does pose some risks. Purchasing a used car means you’re buying a vehicle that someone else has driven. You have no idea if the previous owner maintained the car and took care of it properly. Oil changes, routine belt replacements and tune-ups are all an integral part of being a vehicle owner, but many people fall short of performing these tasks, potentially causing you headaches as you play catch up. A used car requires maintenance and possible servicing sooner than its new counterpart, and there’s a strong chance that a used car won’t have a warranty.
Protecting Yourself When You Want to Buy a Used Car
If you decide that purchasing a used car is the best option for you, it’s crucial to remember to have a certified mechanic that works independently from the dealership inspect the vehicle. They’ll be able to determine the condition of your car and alert you of any issues or problems.
Many people believe that buying a luxury or European brand car omits them from having to visit a service shop prior to purchasing their used car, but this is simply not true. If you buy a BMW, it’s important you find a reputable service shop for BMW vehicles to look at your vehicle. Make sure you select a reputable mechanic that knows a lot about the particular make of the car you want. For example, if you want a Porsche, find a repair shop that specializes on Porsches, don’t visit a VW mechanic.
