Shawneels Automotive

Buying a new car is expensive, and it’s depressing to think about how much value a car loses the second it leaves the lot. For many people, second hand cars are becoming an attractive option. When you’re buying used, you have more room in your budget for added extras, and you might even be able to stretch to a nicer model than you’d have been able to afford if you were buying new.
New vs Used
Some people buy new cars because of the flexible finance deals that are on offer. However, if you look at the total price, rather than the monthly payment, you might get a whole new perspective on how expensive owning a new car can be.
When you buy a used car, there is the risk of it breaking down, but if you buy from a dealership, you should be covered by a warranty similar to that of a new car, and if you check out the ownership history, and take care of your new pride and joy, it should last you a long time. With very old cars, you can save a lot of money on servicing fees too. Compared to the fees at a Land Rover service centre, you could enjoy a fifty per-cent discount by getting your older car serviced at a general garage.
Depreciation and Insurance
Cars lose a lot of their value in the first twelve months, so that’s the sweet spot for buying a car that’s still “almost new”, but at a far lower price. However, if you’re on a really tight budget, you can buy a car that’s far older, but known for its reliability. Once you start looking at cars that are several years old, you’re looking at low prices, and the option to sell on in the future without losing a lot of value to depreciation.
Insurance on very old cars can be very low too, especially if you’re selecting a car that’s practical, rather than one that’s sporty or glamorous.
How to Choose a used Car
The best, most hassle-free buying experience would be to buy from a dealer that offers an approved-used scheme. Don’t be afraid to haggle when you’re buying, and make sure you get at least a 12 month warranty. If you plan on holding on to the car for a few years, consider taking out some additional cover with an independent provider.
If you manage to get a very inexpensive second hand car, it might be easy to think of it as an almost disposable asset. You don’t have to worry about where you park it, as it’s easy enough to just re-spray, and an older car is less likely to get stolen than a shiny new one. With that said, it’s still important to take care of your vehicle. A Volvo service doesn’t cost a fortune, and if you take care of your car, it could serve you well for several years, and then be re-sold for almost as much as you paid for it.