When
you’re searching for a new vehicle, it can be intimidating to scour the lots
filled with factory-fresh cars, trucks and SUVs. Yet, many people are under the
mistaken impression that buying a brand-new vehicle is the only way to go. If
you’re feeling pressured to buy new and are struggling to find your ideal ride
on the lot, know that buying used is just as beneficial as buying new, if not
more so.
It
seems American car buyers are finally catching on to the used car revolution
sweeping the globe. According to Forbes, America experienced a 6 percent growth
rate in pre-owned vehicle sales in 2016, while UK used car buying was up 51
percent.1 Americans may be slower on the uptake, but it’s becoming
clearer why used cars are the way to go.
Why Are New Cars So Desirable?
We get
it. The new car smell. The new leather feel. The unbeatable
fresh-off-the-assembly-line shine. New cars look and feel amazing. Often, the
appearance is the only thing driving a car buyer to look exclusively at new
vehicles. While it’s true that new cars look great, the appearance only lasts
so long. Eventually the shine wears off, the smell fades and the leather seats
become a little more worn in, leaving you with a vehicle that looks just like
an older model.
New
cars also carry the promise of optimal function for years to come. When you
purchase your new vehicle, you often expect to only have minor maintenance
costs for the first year or two, rather than major repairs right out the gate.
Additionally, the long list of high-tech features can entice a car buyer to
purchase new. After all, who doesn’t want a smartphone built into their car?
How Does a Used Car Measure Up?
When
you think about it, new vehicles are desirable because of their appearance and
assumedly better function, but used cars can be of equal quality when cared for
properly. When people think of a pre-owned vehicle, they often think of
something that’s been on the road for ten or more years, but this isn’t
necessarily the case. Many dealers also offer “lightly used” models that are
only one or two years older than the brand-new vehicles they have on the lot.
This means many of these cars have an attractive, modern appearance and many of
the same features and technologies you may want in a car. From backup cameras
to built-in navigation assistance, used models can be every bit as advanced as
the latest model year.
As far
as repairs go, if you know where to buy, you needn’t worry about accidentally
purchasing a glorified trash heap. Used cars still come in “like new” condition
with updated or recently repaired parts. You just have to know where to look.
If you aren’t as versed in car lingo as you’d like, you can trust a used car
certification program to help you choose a car that’ll last. When going to a
dealership, ask about the extended warranties or certified pre-owned programs
they have available. These programs guarantee the quality of the vehicle you
purchase and will cover repairs and maintenance for as long as the warranty
states. If they don’t offer a certification or warranty, you know to look
elsewhere.
Let’s
get down to brass tacks. Price is a major factor to consider when purchasing a
car, and, luckily, pre-owned vehicles can save you thousands. New cars cost a
lot of money, but did you know that as soon as you drive them off the lot,
their value depreciates rapidly? This leaves you with more debt than your
vehicle is actually worth. Used cars, on the other hand, are cheaper and their
value doesn’t depreciate at the same rate as a new vehicle. You get more bang for
your buck.
In
addition to saving money at the sale, you’ll also save on registration.
Registration fees are usually based on vehicle value and model year, so a used
car at a lower value from five years ago, for instance, will have a
significantly lower fee to register than a brand-new sports car.
Find Your Ride at Silsbee Motor
Company
The
appeal of a new vehicle may be powerful, but you’ll only end up walking away
with more debt and a slightly newer ride. Forget the extra fees and higher
price. A used car from a reliable maker can last just as long as a new car with
attentive care and preventative maintenance.
If
you’re ready to make the commitment to finding a new-to-you used car, truck or
SUV in Silsbee, make sure your dealer knows their pre-owned vehicles. At
Silsbee Motor Company, we specialize in used vehicles and offer only the finest quality
maintenance and service. You’ll never experience high-pressure sales tactics or
receive vague vehicle histories with our friendly sales team. We build
relationships based on transparency, honesty and respect with each and every
customer and ensure every client drives off in a car they can feel good about. Contact us online or
call 409-385-0409 to schedule your test drive today!
1 https://www.forbes.com/sites/gurufocus/2016/07/06/the-used-car-market-whats-driving-growth/#502ecae840f0
