I'm often asked what I'd recommend? I don't think there is a certain car new or used that is just perfect for everyone. It really depends on what exactly you expecting from your next vehicle and how much money you want to spend. By purchasing a used car, you can save a lot of money. A new car depreciates quickly in the first few years and after 3 years, it is worth only about 60-70% of the original price. In fact, as soon as you leave the dealership, your new vehicle is suddenly worth 10% less, a new car requires less maintenance in first few years and most of the problems occurred within the original warranty coverage period will be covered by the car manufacturer.
Buying a new car does not always mean the buyer will get perfection. A new car may come with problems associated with poor design or manufacturing defects that may have been already repaired during the warranty coverage period if it's a used car. The same is true for all kinds of recalls and service campaigns.
Buying a used car is still a bit of a gamble - there is no guarantee that the car is accident-free, has real mileage, and was properly maintained. There may be some hidden problems like a worn out automatic transmission, or engine problems that may not have been obvious when you test-drove the car.
Here are some tips I want to share:
Safety
There is no perfectly safe car, but certain models can protect you better in case of a crash. Some vehicles offer features that may help you to avoid an accident in the first place. You can compare crash test ratings and find other car safety related information online.
Reliability
Reliability is one of the most important factors to consider. Not all cars are the same. Some models are proven to be very reliable, others are known for constant problems. There is a number of resources where you can check reliability ratings of car models.
Fuel economy
With unpredictable gas prices, choosing the more fuel-efficient vehicle will help you to save money at the pump. Fuel-efficient cars pollute less, which is good for the environment. By choosing a more economical vehicle you are helping to fight global warming.
Depreciation
Some cars hold value well, while others depreciate very quickly. If you want to keep your car only for a few years and then trade it in, consider a model that will not drop in value too quickly over your ownership period.
Automatic or manual transmission
It is much easier to drive a car with an automatic transmission. An automatic transmission offers more convenience, but it involves a more complicated device and breaks more often. The repair of an automatic transmission tends to be quite expensive. When you buy a used car, the automatic transmission is one of the important parts to check - How to check a transmission
Cars with manual transmission are less expensive. A manual transmission is often more reliable than an automatic. Experienced drivers of manual transmissions will tell you they like how it allows the driver to feel "closer" to the car. It's just more fun! However, it is more hassle to drive a car with manual transmission, especially in a stop-and-go traffic. It also could be challenging to handle for a beginner. But don't be scared, it's not as difficult as it seems - many learn it pretty quickly. You also can save on gas - cars with manual transmission are more economical. A manual transmission gives you more control over gear shifting, and therefore more possibilities for adopting fuel-efficient drive style.
Considering a car with Diesel engine
Cars with a diesel engine consume almost half as much fuel as the same car with a gasoline engine. However, there is a price to pay: Diesel engines are a bit noisier and there always will be that not very pleasant smell from the exhaust. Some Diesel engine vehicles require only synthetic oil which means higher maintenance cost.
Four-cylinder or six
Four-cylinder engines usually provide better fuel economy, but V6 and V8 engines generally have more power and little more durability. The V6 (or V8) engine will be a good choice if you want to use your car for towing a trailer. For normal city driving, a four-cylinder engine will do the job just fine.
Do I need the ABS?
The four-wheel ABS or Anti-lock Braking System is designed to help the driver maintain steering control during hard braking, especially in slippery conditions. Driving a car equipped with four-wheel ABS, it would be easier for you to steer your vehicle while braking. If slippery road conditions are common in your area, the ABS may be helpful if you use it correctly. The disadvantage is that the ABS is quite complicated device and might be costly to repair.
Hope this tips are helpful, contact me for more tagcars@live.com
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