Whether or not a used car is the right fit over a new car is a major topic of discussion for most car buyers. A key piece of this discussion revolves around the notion that many new cars immediately drop in value (by as much as half) as soon as they roll off of the lot. Juxtaposing this point is the idea that used cars are not as reliable as newer models. The reality of the situation though is that modern cars, trucks, and SUVs have never been more reliable or affordable when compared to brand new vehicles, which means these offerings deserve even more of your trust and attention as you look to upgrade your automotive future.
MINIMIZING THE IMPACT OF DEPRECIATION
As soon as you get behind the wheel, a new vehicle can drop in value by as much as 20 percent. After a year goes by, another 10 percent of depreciation is not uncommon. By the third year of ownership, many new vehicles have lost almost half of their value when compared to the original sticker price. Opting to purchase a used car that is already a couple of years old avoids this drop in value entirely, all while protecting your investment. In short, the best way to maximize your budget and preserve value is to buy and own a car, truck, or SUV that is lightly used and has already gone through the initial drop in value caused by depreciation – and then to drive it for as long as you can!
GETTING THE MOST BANG FOR YOUR BUCK
Want to enjoy a better trim package or more exclusive options on your vehicle? Then buying a used car from Truck Ranch (online or in person) is the way to go as you stretch out your budget and get more bang for your buck. As an example, $35,000 might only get you the base trim on a brand new vehicle. If you take that same money and put it into a car, truck, or SUV that is three years old, though, you can often opt for a higher trim level full of exclusive features and options that would otherwise be out of your budget.
RELIABILITY FOR YEARS TO COME
Reliability is complex topic to tackle when it comes to new and used vehicles. For instance, a new car that has been recently redesigned doesn't have a documented history of reliability. This explains why so many recalls often occur in the first year after a vehicle's release to the public. By opting to buy a used car, all of these issues are already documented and sorted out. This gives you the power to pinpoint problems, identify models with few (or no) issues, and make a more informed decision, which, in turn, ensures that you drive home in a reliable vehicle.
STAY FLEXIBILE WHEN POSSIBLE
Being flexible as you shop for a used car is an attribute that plays a very important role when compared to shopping for a new car. Specifically, shopping for a new car often allows for great customization in the process leading up to the order of the vehicle. However, when you buy used, there can be times when opting for a different exterior color, vehicle trim level, or other attribute is the best way to hit your mileage goals or to select a vehicle with a clean history. In some cases, being flexible also means considering other models entirely when your top choice (and its desired features) is simply too hard to find at your budget or price point.
CHANGING SAFETY TECH AND FEATURES
Safety features and tech in the automotive world is constantly evolving, so not every feature is available on preceding model years for certain vehicles. This means that buying used can sometimes require opting for a vehicle that still utilizes outstanding safety technology; just not the most recent variations of these features.
UNDERSTANDING FUEL ECONOMY
Much like safety technology, cars tend to becoming more