There's nothing quite like the smell of a brand new car or the thrill of being the first to drive your new ride. But that sense of novelty could be costing you big-time. New cars lose value the second you drive them off the dealer's lot. In essence, that new-car smell is costing you anywhere from $1000 to $2000. A car's value will depreciate another 30% after three years. Buying an almost new car is a great way to avoid these decreases in value. So save yourself big bucks by looking for the best buys in gently used automobiles. Though only a few years old, many gently-used cars will cost you much less than their new counterparts, and you'll probably never be able to tell the difference.
Key Considerations: Mileage and Wear and Tear
Of course, if you're going to buy a used car, you'll need to do your homework. Newer models may be improvements on older models, or they may just contain new problems. Make no mistake about it: There can definitely be problems with used cars or issues with how (or how much) the previous owner drove. Higher mileage isn't always bad. If the car has been well-maintained and isn't suffering from too much wear and tear, high mileage usually isn't a problem. However, if you notice other problems with the car, you may want to move on. Similarly, low mileage is no guarantee that the car is just like new.
Whether you're shopping at a dealership or buying from a private owner, when buying an almost-new car, use this used car checklist to discover for yourself how good a deal you're really getting.
Think about your needs. How much do you drive? Do you want the best gas mileage possible, or are you willing to sacrifice it for style or space? How much room do you need? How much can you afford to pay? These are the things you should consider before anything else, so that you know exactly what you're looking for in a vehicle.
Do your research. Narrow your search down to two or three models that fit your needs and your budget. Before you head into a dealership, know what you're looking for. Check consumer reports and websites and get recommendations from friends.
Check the car's history. Sure, that shiny red Corvette may look gorgeous now—but what if it's been in a bad accident? What if the transmission has always been a problem? These are things you need to know in order to make an informed decision.
Test drive. See for yourself what the car feels like. After all, you're going to be riding in it for years to come, so if you just can't deal with the placement of the gear shift, or if something seems to rattle, that could seriously get on your nerves.
Get the car checked out by a mechanic. The seller may be withholding certain details from you about the car, so make sure you take it to a mechanic you trust so you can get the real story. He or she will be able to fill you in on any problems with the car, so that you know exactly what you're getting into. Something that may sound like the best buy in a gently-used automobile may actually be a scam.
Buying an almost-new car is a great way to save money, but buyer beware! You'll have to do your homework and be willing to put in some legwork to make sure you end up with the best buy in a gently-used automobile instead of a lemon. Know what you're looking for, be aware of the car's mileage and wear and tear, and always have someone you trust take a look at it.
