A common challenge for car buyers is whether to buy a new or used vehicle. If you can afford it, buying a new car is certainly worth the excitement. You get a brand new car, just the way you want, and with the full warranty still intact. Plus, new cars feature the latest technology and safety features, as well as higher fuel efficiency and lower emissions.
But as wonderful as these features are, you’re going to pay dearly for them. According to Kelley Blue Book, the average price Americans paid for a new car topped $47,000 in December 2021. This is A LOT of money! Bankrate reports that the average monthly car payment for new cars is $609.
If you’re not in the market to spend this much on a new vehicle, there are plenty of things to love about a used car.
Cost Savings
Obviously, the biggest benefit to buying used is the cost savings. Used cars cost far less than new ones, not just in the overall price of the vehicle, but the taxes and fees as well. Also, insurance rates are often cheaper for used cars because the vehicle costs less to replace. Learn more about buying a used car for under 10k.
Depreciation
Considering that new cars depreciate about 20 percent in one year, it’s not a bad idea to consider something previously owned. Used cars depreciate, too, but not nearly as fast. And, there’s no hit as soon as you drive off the lot. Also, some say there’s less ‘mental depreciation’ because the first parking lot ding or rock chip has probably already been made.
Warranty
Most vehicles come with a manufacturer warranty of 3 years or 36,000 miles. But it’s not uncommon for new cars to have a bumper-to-bumper warranty of 5 years and a powertrain warranty of 10 years. If the new car you’re purchasing is only a few years old, this warranty gets transferred to you.
Safety and Quality
Today’s vehicles are meant to last much longer than they once did. Therefore, buying a vehicle that’s a few years old isn’t taking much life off. You’ll still be getting new technology and safety features. In fact, some buyers find that they’re able to get a package they wouldn’t have otherwise afforded in a new vehicle, allowing them to walk away with MORE, not less.
Shop for Used Cars at RepoFinder
New cars are certainly tempting, but don’t let this deter you from the many wonderful used vehicles on the market. RepoFinder consistently turns over a huge inventory of pre-owned vehicles. These vehicles are repossessions, and many are in great condition but could no longer be afforded by their previous owners. Browse our selection of repo cars today!