New vs Used Car Buying Tips

Naturally tanned leather, crafted varnished wood, hints of Armor All, and new rubber smells are permeating the air as car manufacturers are unloading the brand new 2017 models and pushing 2016 models off into the discount lot. If you’re in the market for a new car, it’s time to get your game face on and make a pro’s vs con’s list before you head to the dealer. The end of August kicks off the 4th quarter for sales and we’re going to see some of the best incentives and price drops on new and used cars. We have some tips to protect you as a buyer and protect your wallet.

 

Benefits of Buying a New Car:

• New cars come with the best warranty without paying extra because the warranty is from the manufacturer.

• New cars have all the latest technology and safety standards, like tire pressure monitoring, blind spot monitoring systems and braking assistance.

• New cars are not used. Sounds obvious right? With a new car, you are the first owner and there is no wear or tear. The car’s history is a blank slate and it’s your responsibility to make sure all the proper maintenance is performed correctly, and on time.

• While your new car does come with a warranty, maintenance is a separate expense and you have the right to choose your car care center. Read our previous post about your right to choose your mechanic without voiding your warranty, and the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act.

 

If you’re set on buying a brand new car, visit the dealership at the end of the month when they’re trying to hit their sales goals. Find out which dealers are offering the best rebates and trade-in incentives. Skip any pre-paid maintenance add-on packages because rarely are they in your best interest. You don’t want to get locked into an exclusive dealer maintenance clause, and wear and tear items are not covered but will cost significantly more at the dealer than your local car care center.

 

Benefits of Buying a Used Car:

• Used cars save you money. From the purchase price of the sales tax and registration, the savings can be seen all around and you’ll experience less depreciation. Some new car models can lose up to 40% of their value within the first year, that hurts we know. In our quick search, we saw deals like a 2015 Audi equipped with all the bells and whistles with 30,000 miles selling for $12,000 less than its 2016 counterpart, and this car was also cheaper than a fully loaded brand new Toyota Camry.

• Used Cars can be found with the latest technology standards and the extras you want from a new car; but, dealers can’t add on to the price for added features like they did when the car was new; think pinstripe detail, DVD packages, floor mats.

• Used Cars already have time on the road and consumer reviews to help guide you in your buying decision.

If you’re buying a used car, remember to always have the used car inspected by an independent mechanic, even if the State inspection sticker is brand new. You don’t know how the car was treated by the last owner or what the dealership was able to “patch” to pass inspection.  Ask for the vehicle history report, was it in a flood area or an accident?  There may be extra leg work in buying used, but the benefits can certainly add up to.
Whichever direction you decide to go in, remember to do your homework. Check out a price comparison site like TrueCar.com for average pricing and to find the best deals. If you want to get an honest opinion before you buy a car, bring your car to a trusted car care center, like Osceola Garage for a thorough assessment. Once you’ve purchased your new(or new to you) car remember you have the right to choose your car maintenance provider, why not choose one that offers a lifetime protection plan that extends the life of your car and gives you $26,000 in coverage with free roadside assistance.