When you think about getting a car – whether it’s your first car or not – there is often a toss-up between spending a little more to buy a new car, or saving some money and venturing down the second-hand car buyer’s road.
There can be positives and negatives on each side of the coin, so let’s take a look at some pros and cons before you make up your mind.
A Used Car Will Be Cheaper
When I say cheaper, I mean compared to the same or similar model new. A second hand Rolls Royce is still likely going to cost a lot more than a brand new Golf.
Let’s face it, as soon as you buy that new car and drive it out of the dealership, you lose at a bare minimum 10% or more off the price after taking that few meter journey.
Buying a used car that’s in really good condition can be almost like having a new car, just minus the higher price tag.
If you buy used and decide to sell down the track, there’s a chance you could even sell it for around the same price you paid for it. No way you can do that with a new car.
New Cars Come With a Warranty
You can get warranties on used cars too, but not like the warranty that comes with a new car. Generally, you’re looking at something like a 3-year guarantee when you buy brand new cars, as compared to maybe only a few months on a used one.
And if you buy your second-hand car privately, there won’t be any warranty at all. You definitely take a lot more chances of purchasing a used car (especially privately). According to Honda.co.nz, these are issues you don’t even really have to consider when buying new cars.
You Get That New Car Feeling
There are many fantastic second-hand cars out there, but there’s nothing quite like being the very first owner. Everything smells brand new, protective plastic still covers the door trim, everything is clean, pristine and in perfect working order.
Even under the bonnet, the engine bay looks like it’s been prepared for display at a car show. No grease and grime of any kind.
It is a special feeling, a sensation that just can’t be emulated when you buy a used car, no matter how good it looks or how great it runs.
Used Cars Come With Someone Else’s History
It can be a bit of a gamble buying a used car, even from a dealership. If the car you’re looking at has been around for years, chances are it’s already seen a number of different owners.
You have no idea how well it’s been looked after, whether the engine has received regular oil changes. You can have an expert look it over, but there’s still no way of knowing for sure what the car’s history is.
Something could be about to break down and you won’t be covered if it does.
A New Car Will Give You Peace of Mind
There’s not a lot to think about when buying a new car, other than getting it for the right price.
You know it’s mechanically sound, and if something does go wrong, you know you’re covered under the warranty.
Generally, new cars are more fuel efficient too. Partly this is because they have brand new engines and other parts, plus the fact that manufacturers are always striving to improve fuel economy and efficiency.
You won’t be thinking about having to replace anything on the car any time soon. The tires are brand new with years worth of wear still in them. All the electricals work as they should. Your new car will likely come with very effective security features as well, something that’s sadly lacking on many older model cars.
Whichever way you look at this, there are definitely some advantages to both new and used, with the biggest advantage of buying second hand being the price. Plus, you won’t worry about your used car as much.
However, for complete peace of mind and complete confidence in your purchase, new cars definitely look to be ahead on advantages.
