Tips For Purchasing Used Cars


by Crystal Maloney


The way in which the transportation industry is currently operating, makes guidelines for purchasing used cars very useful for would-be buyers. Inherent in these guidelines are the advantages as well as the disadvantages purchasers should examine.

Benefits can be derived from purchasing a vehicle that had a previous owner. Three of these are the available price, the certification programs employed, and the opportunity to avoid depreciation expense.

The existing distance between the prices charged for vehicles that are new and those that are not, is three to one, as shown by research. It is usually necessary to obtain loans when buying new vehicles, and these loans have high monthly rates and need down payments. A loan for a unit previously owned could be more affordable.

Certification programs were at first only available through luxury car makers but, currently, almost every automaker is using them. The main feature of the program is units with low mileage and minor damages, and these units are extensively checked to detect mechanical as well as cosmetic ills. The program also features extended warranties which could incorporate a little roadside assistance. Thrown into the mix may be special financing reasonably priced.

Depreciation on new vehicles begin the moment the units drive away from their dealers. This cost which could be more than 30 percent of the purchase price, may possibly be incurred during the first two years of usage. Vehicles that are pre-owned could be released from that burden.

Two disadvantages of acquiring previously-owned vehicles are the high interest rates on loans for the purchase, and the possible loss of peace of mind due to unforeseen problems. Because of the risks involved, lenders charge a higher premium on their loans, and zero percent financing is generally not offered. Unless the unit is certified, its condition is not guaranteed at purchase. There may be underlying and soon-to-be-revealed problems which could rob the purchaser of peace of mind.

The foregoing tips for purchasing used cars could be useful to prospective buyers. Advantages and disadvantages need to be examined carefully before decisions are made.




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