New vs Used Car

Used Cars vs New Cars

Should you get a used or new car? Well, this is one of the biggest decisions you need to make when you're shopping for a car. Drivers nationwide will get great benefits with either option, but which would be right for you?

Check out Val-U-Line®'s guide to used vs. new cars to learn more about the benefits of each option and which is best for what you need.

Car Inventory

Used vs New Cars

Used Cars

New Cars

Usually costs less

Costs more upfront

Depreciation tends to be much less

Car loses 20% of value due to depreciation

Typically reliable for over 100,000 miles

Repair fees may be due with new car warranties

Lower car insurance rates

More features and customization available

Registration renewal is cheaper

More financing options

Step up to a luxury car

Comes with the latest technologies

Used vs New Cars: Costs and Depreciation

Used Car Cost

Cost plays a big role in deciding between a new or used car. If you're looking to save, you may want to stick to pre-owned vehicles. Used cars typically cost less based on their equipped features and technology, which translates into a smaller price tag and more savings for buyers.

Usually, a new vehicle's value depreciates over time. In some cases, its value drops the moment you drive it off the lot.

Depreciation is less of an issue for used cars, which makes them a great investment, especially for young drivers. If you bought a pre-owned vehicle today for around $15,000 and decide to sell it a few years from now, it could be worth $10,000 or maybe even more. Due to this, you'll be able to get a good return.

A used car's value will also come in handy when you need to upgrade. You'll most likely have a sizable down payment to put towards your next ride since its value may have only depreciated by a few thousand dollars depending on how well you took care of it.

Vehicle Options and Technologies

You can find many used and new cars across the country. One of the easiest ways to narrow down your options is to think about what you want. If you're the type of driver that wants the industry's latest technologies at your disposal, buying a new vehicle could be right for you.

There are plenty of pre-owned vehicles out there that are packed with great features that will help you enjoy every drive. There are many used cars under $10,000 equipped with amenities designed for convenience, entertainment, and safety.

You may get Bluetooth® with a pre-owned car. It'll help you sync up your favorite smartphone and make phone calls and send hands-free texts. It'll also let you listen to your favorite playlists. You'll also get to enjoy modern safety features, such as anti-lock brakes. Plus, a rearview camera could give you even more confidence in crowded parking lots.

Drivers also have more pre-owned options to choose from when they're shopping. Whether you're looking for an SUV or a sleek sedan, many dealerships offer used cars of all makes, models, and years. You're sure to find one that's right for you. If you're buying new, you may be limited to just a few models, so it may take more time to find one with the combination of features best suited for your specific needs.

Used vs New Cars: Reliability

Car Inspection

New cars have a reputation for reliability but used cars can provide a performance that's just as dependable and safe. All pre-owned vehicles come with standard safety features for a stable drive and peace of mind when you're behind the wheel. Some newer pre-owned models may even include driver-assist technologies to further ensure your safety.

On top of that, many pre-owned models at used car dealers have been inspected and restored with genuine OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts. They're made with high-quality materials, so they're sure to provide a dependable and long-lasting fix. You can get a vehicle that looks and performs like new without paying new car prices

Most used cars also come with a CARFAX® Vehicle History Report™. It'll let you see how reliable they really are. You'll get to explore service records and reported accidents, so you can make sure everything under the hood is performing at its best. It'll also show you how many previous owners the vehicle has had, so you can ensure you're getting an experienced vehicle.

Modern vehicles are built to last. If you keep up with the regularly scheduled maintenance, they'll serve you well for years to come. When buying a pre-owned car, think about how many more miles you can get out of it-not how many are on the odometer. A used car with 100,000 miles still has about 4- or 5-years' worth of driving left in it.

More Benefits of Buying a Used Car

Are you thinking about getting behind the wheel of your dream luxury car? You'll be able to save a lot more when it's pre-owned. Your local used car dealer could have vehicles from Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, and maybe even Land Rover. You could save as much as 30% on a luxury car.

You may also get to enjoy lower insurance rates. When a vehicle has a lower value, collision and comprehensive coverage will tend to cost less. You may also have the option of dropping that coverage to save even more.

In most cases, the cost of registry renewals will also go down when you choose to buy a used car.

There are some dealerships that may let you bring your pre-owned car back if you're not totally satisfied. For example, our used car dealer has a No Questions Asked Return Policy. Bring the car back for any reason within three days or 300 miles, and we'll help match you up with a vehicle that better suits your lifestyle.

Should You Buy a Used or New Car?

Both used and new cars have their individual benefits. For instance, new vehicles can be great for those that want the latest automotive features. If you're looking for a vehicle that can be just as dependable and well-equipped but also more affordable, it's best to buy a used car.

If you think buying a used car is the right move to make, contact our team at Val-U-Line® today.