If you’re planning to purchase your first car, you have probably racked your brain about which option is better for you – a new or used car. And although most people base their arguments or preference on financial reasons alone, buying a used car is not always the cheaper option long-term. So many other essential factors such as reliability, specs, features, durability come to play. But of course, you cannot ignore the cost. So, are you preparing to buy a car? Are you tired of considering whether you need to buy a new or used car? You can use these tips to help you decide.
Vehicle features and cost
It is easier to find a car with all the features you want if you’re focusing on a new car (click here to keep up to date with car news, the latest specs, and features). Most automobile manufacturers give buyers the chance to add or subtract the features they want (which adds or subtracts from the price). And this means you’re more likely to drive off with all the specs you want your vehicle to have. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for a used car, as specs’ options are more limited in any particular model. It is almost impossible to purchase a used car and look for loaded features. Of course, you can always opt for modifying a used car with customized options, but those also come with added cost. So, if you’re looking for new and improved features, your best option is a new car.
New or Used Car Reliability
Most car owners will agree that if you’re looking for a more reliable car, then you should seriously consider getting a new one. Don’t get it wrong; no one says that a new car wouldn’t give you some issues. But you’re more likely to have recurring problems with a used vehicle than with a new one. However, reliability also depends on how old the used car is or even the car brand. You might be surprised to find out that some 10-year-old car models are running more reliably on the road than newer models.
Also, some lightly-used cars may have better reliability than some new ones. That means several factors may determine a car’s reliability beyond just years of usage. But one difference here is that when you purchase a new vehicle, you’re most likely to have a warranty to cover you for several months or years, especially with unexpected problems, and that isn’t something you’ll typically get with a used car.
Cost
One of the biggest arguments people make for buying a used car is the comparatively cheaper purchasing cost. And this makes a lot of sense. Once you drive a new car out of the showroom, the price begins to depreciate. And when the vehicle becomes available on the used-car market, the depreciation factor has already taken effect – and paid for by the previous user or owner. That means buying a used car will help you save more money. However, when you consider cost, there is more to it beyond the market value.
You will also need to consider maintenance costs and upkeep. If you purchase a used car that gives you numerous issues, you might end up spending loads on maintenance and repair that would’ve made more sense buying a new one. A simple solution will be to opt for a more reliable car brand. Some brands have more excellent reliability than others when it comes to used cars. So, take your time to do enough research on the right used car to buy. Another solution will be to purchase from a trusted dealer. No matter what brand you want, you’ll probably find a certified dealer with reliable options for you. For example, if you wish to own a Hyundai car, you can trust Allen Hyundai for the best models, whether used or new.
Warranties and consumer protections
In most cases, how much consumer protection you will receive after purchasing a used car will depend on the vehicle’s age. For example, if you live in the US, the Lemon law can protect you if you purchase a defective vehicle. But this law often applies to cars that fall within a particular age limit and have several miles on them. New vehicles usually have more comprehensive warranties and consumer protection, which can help when there is a fault. Even some of the most expensive car brands also offer warranties to cover specific costly components. Additionally, new car warranties tend to have more extended coverage than used cars. However, if you purchase a previously owned vehicle from a trusted dealer, you may get an offer that exceeds the manufacturer’s original warranty.
Are you buying a new or used car?
You can, therefore, make a case of either new or used car. But the ultimate decision should boil down to your happiness and the need you have for the vehicle. If you consider buying a new car to be too much strain on your budget, you can opt for a fairly used one. You can also consider convenient payment or loan options. On the other hand, if you can afford a new car or manage payment options on a new car better than you will on an old one (and the extra maintenance costs it comes with), buying a new car is an excellent option.
Buying a new car offers a more straightforward process in many ways. Since in most cases, all you need to do is walk into a dealership and examine your options. The challenge may come in when you have to negotiate. Most buyers prefer financing options since new cars are comparatively expensive. Buying a used car requires a lot of research, not only about the vehicle type but also about the history of the vehicle you want. You also need to ensure that you’re not purchasing a stolen vehicle. You will also need to do more research to determine the actual worth of the car.