Car Buying: New Vs. Used

By Holly:

So you need a new vehicle. Before you begin dreaming about what you want to drive, a basic but major question needs to be answered. Will you buy new or used? The decision is purely individual, and most often is surrounded by debate and controversy. There are undoubtedly pros and cons to buying a new verses used vehicle. Let’s consider them so that when the time comes for you to buy another vehicle, you’ll be better equipped to make the best decision for yourself.

Pros of Buying New Who doesn’t love the way a new car smells? Of course this is not a valid reason for buying a new vehicle; however it does bring up a fact. Our senses sell us. The shiny paint, the clean interior, the beautiful new details, and yes the new car smell! There is exclusivity to knowing that nobody else has tainted your new beauty. Not only is it beautiful, but it is decked out in all of the newest technology, safety features, tires and entertainment features.

If looks alone don’t sell you, then the peace of mind that comes with a brand new built mechanical vehicle can provide safety on the road can go a long way when deciding to purchase new. Most vehicles have little to no mechanical issues fewer than 100K miles, so a new car buyer can drive with little worry of breakdowns along the road for several years. If the looks and dependability haven’t already sold you, then the perks are sure to win you over. Most new car buyers have great warranty packages, roadside assistance, entertainment subscriptions and other little “seal the deal” perks to make you feel like you are getting even more value for your money.

Cons of Buying New The largest con when it buying a new vehicle is the automatic depreciation of the vehicle. Once a buyer drives that new car off the lot, it depreciates by several thousands of dollars. The retail price is now the wholesale price. It’s just the name of the game, and if you are willing to take the hit for the previous reasons, then it may be an okay option for you!

Pros of Buying Used When it comes to used vehicles, it can be a little overwhelming. The options are endless; everyone is looking for a good deal! And there are many to be found!! A major pro is that for a used or “pre-owned vehicle” you may find one that still has very low mileage, and a much better sale price! You can get much more car for your money. This lends itself to a more practical financial purchase. With today’s access to technology, information about nearly anything is out there. Websites like kbb.com and other offer in depth information on vehicles. With this ability for consumers to do their own research, they are also savvier. They have a better idea of what a vehicle is worth before coming into the dealership and are better equipped to see through a high pressure sales pitch.

Cons of Buying Used As with anything, there is risk involved in the purchase of any vehicle. Even with all of the information available, and the look of the vehicle, sometimes there are lemons out there and you are the first one to find out. Mechanical errors happen and if were sold a bill of goods, sometimes it can come back to bite you. You don’t know how the previous owners treated your car and they may have been less than honest when selling or trading it in.

If the decision still makes your head spin, then don’t fret. Some questions to further verify your decision could be the following: 1) Am I trying to project an image of prestige by buying new? 2) Can I afford to take a loss on the value of buying new? 3) Is my spouse/significant other in agreement with my decision? 4) Am I willing to take the risk of buying a used “lemon”? 5) What is the greatest purpose this vehicle is serving? 6) Long term, will this vehicle serve your needs?

These are just some extra questions to consider. In the end it is an individual decision (or an agreement decision if married) and you have to be happy with it. No matter what you are looking for Woody’s Automotive Group is here to help guide you in the right direction. We are NO FEES dealership. We offer ONE PRICE and never will hassle you. It’s car buying made easy! With over 1000 vehicle in stock, both new and used, we are sure to help you find exactly what you are looking for!