If you’re in the market for a second car or are purchasing rather than leasing, a good used car can be a great deal.

Those who have a new baby often trade in their two seat sports car for a larger sedan which will accommodate baby and family comfortably, while an older couple may have seen their youngest child off to college and now the mini-van,  SUV or station wagon seems almost too roomy. Perhaps an owner feels he has too many vehicles and it’s time to sell or they simply get bored driving the same old model and want something different.  For the buyer who wants a used vehicle, these trade-ins can be treasure.

Has Hilary points out, the first owner has taken the biggest hit in the case of depreciation value, so you really can’t lose.  If you’re buying from a private owner, ask to take the car to a local mechanic or dealership to look under the hood, check for any recalls and to make certain it hasn’t been in an accident.

Also, it’s a good idea to choose an automobile that holds its value over time, such as a Honda, Lexus or Toyota and if possible, if you’re purchasing from a dealership, try to choose a car that has enough warranty from the factory left over; even if it’s just a year or two, it’s better than no warranty at all.  

Also keep in mind that oftentimes when we’re shopping for a brand new car as opposed to a used car, we find ourselves sacrificing our wants for the sake of  budget, so rather than settle for less, look for a good used automobile which is equipped with all the bells and whistles at the right price you can afford.  If buying from a dealer, be certain the vehicle is certified and don’t forget to check the tires for decent tread and ask to see the service records.

Don’t forget to check out 10 Questions To Ask When Buying A Used Car and How Do I Know a Car Was In An Accident? on this site for further information.

In the end, if you still decide to purchase a new vehicle, at least you’ll know the market a little better and you’ll have a good idea of what your money can buy.

Tags: Advice, General, Guides //