Tips on Making the Right Choice for Your Next Automobile
Is it time to replace your car, or are you looking for something reliable for a new driver? Then you’ve probably gone back and forth between buying a new or used car.
There are many benefits to buying a used car, especially if you’re on a budget. So, new or used cars: which is right for you?
Used Cars Aren’t What They Used to Be
The days of greasy and untrustworthy used car salespeople are long gone. Sure, you can still find some lots that still want to take customers for a ride, but most used car lots are in the business to sell cars and help people. When you hit the search button for “used cars near me,” look for a dealership that sells certified pre-owned vehicles. That way, you know you’re getting a quality vehicle.
Certified pre-owned vehicles go through meticulous inspections and a reconditioning process, and usually come with a vehicle history report. Even better, most certified pre-owned cars are backed with a warranty from the manufacturer.
You Can Get a Lot of Drive Time in With a Used Car
Recent advancements in car technology not only make your drive a lot more comfortable, they make cars last longer, too. Experts used to warn buyers to stay away from cars that are near 100,000 miles, but now you can find many models that can easily reach 200,000 miles.
The quality of your used car depends on how well it’s been taken care of by the previous owners. That’s why it’s critical that you request a vehicle history report when you purchase a used car. If there isn’t one available, here are some quick tips for inspecting used cars for sale in Houston before you hit the gas pedal:
- Press on the front bumper to test the suspension
- Walk around the car to look for damage in the body
- Ask for details about parts like the timing belt, brakes, and transmission
- There is Less Depreciation With a Used Car
New cars lose a lot of value during your first year of ownership, but with used cars, the worst part of depreciation is already over. You might not get the latest features, but you get a lot of value for your dollar.
Find a used car that’s less than a few years old, and you can still have the new car feel, without breaking the bank. The key is finding a used car dealership that has a reputation for selling high-quality cars and emphasizes incredible customer service.
New Cars Come With All the Features You Want
The one drawback about buying a used car is that you don’t get all the latest features available. For instance, many new models come with upgraded audio systems, smart locks, and remote starts as standard features.
In fact, most new cars are very customizable, which means you can choose trims that have extra safety features for new drivers. With a used car, you can really only get what the vehicle is already equipped with, unless you want to fork over lots of money for aftermarket upgrades.
You Don’t Have to Worry About Previous Damage When You Buy a New Car
Even though there isn’t a lot of room to negotiate with a new car, you can always be sure you don’t have to worry about poor maintenance or previous damage from the past owners. There won’t be any dings or dents, and all the parts and accessories were put there by the manufacturer.
You might find buying a new car a little less stressful than buying a used one, because you won’t need to go over as many details. For instance, you don’t need to assess the vehicle history report, inspect the body and interior for flaws, or to negotiate as much on price. The base price for new car models is widely available, and you don’t need to worry about being overcharged. If a dealership is asking for more than MSRP for a new car, walk away.
Should You Buy New or Used? Ask a Professional for Advice!
Before you consider buying a new or used car, take stock of your lifestyle. Are you going to be putting a lot of miles on your car for your commute? Then you might buy a newer car with a lot of features. However, if you want a car for a teenager just learning how to drive, it may be better to look for a used automobile that already has a few imperfections.
Remember that the cost of a car is never just the sticker price in the window. You need to factor in the cost of insurance, registration, gas, and maintenance. The best thing to do is visit a respected car dealership for advice on choosing new or used cars for sale in Houston. That way you can drive away confidently.