Everyone wants a new car. People don’t grow up dreaming of owning a used Ferrari or Lamborghini and showing it off to their friends. They grow up dreaming of owning the newest and shiniest car on the market. However, there are quite a few perks when it comes to buying used over new. Used cars have become, and are continuing to become, incredibly popular with buyers. However, you need to be careful because there are as many cons as there are pros.
So, do the positives outweigh the negatives?
Cost Effective
Used cars are the indisputable champions when it comes to price. On average, they are about five thousand pounds less expensive than their newer counterparts, and some are even cheaper. If money is an issue, and it is for most people, there isn’t a cheaper alternative. Still, you have to be careful with regards to the quality to price ratio. Regardless of the cost, if the car breaks down within a couple of weeks of purchase, it isn’t a bargain. In fact, you should stay away from these cars at all cost.
Quality
Used cars get a bad name because there are people who have ruined them for everyone. You will know the people, and might have even come across some in your time. They are what’s known in the trade as cowboys trying to take advantage of good-natured people. In reality, there are plenty of cars that are affordable and will run for a few more years. Sellers don’t just get rid of cars because they are no good. They get rid of them because they don’t fit their needs any longer. However, that doesn’t mean they won’t fit your needs.
Choice
There are millions of used cars sold every year. What does this tell you about the used car industry? It tells you that there are a lot of choices where used cars are concerned. Even if you have a certain budget, and you are looking for a specific quality, there should be plenty of makes and models to choose from.
Warranty
The main problem with buying second-hand cars is the risk. When you buy a car from a private seller, you have almost no rights after you finalise the sale. As a result, if you make a poor choice, it could cost you a lot of money. However, because manufacturers are adding longer warranties to their vehicles, this is often negated. If a used car is three to five years old, there is a chance that the warranty still applies. So, if you do have any problems, you can always go to the manufacturer instead of dealing with the seller.
Manufacturers’ Schemes
Used cars are so popular that even manufacturers are getting in on the act. Now, you can buy a used car directly from the manufacturer. They cost a little extra, but they are still cheaper than a new one. Plus, it gives you more peace of mind because it comes direct from the source, not a shady private seller.
Summary
The odds are in your favour as long as you take the decision seriously. The negatives, of which there are a few, can all be tackled quite easily. And, the positives are almost impossible to find elsewhere. The verdict is in: used cars have won.
