New car sales figures are reflecting the global economic situation, not surprisingly, figures from the automotive industry indicate that used cars sales are more common, with three times as many people buying used cars rather than new. For many people, in need of a vehicle for work purposes, new cars are just too expensive and financially risky these days when job security is a thing of the past, also, many people have had to downgrade their vehicles for the same reasons, so the used car market has some great deals on high quality, pre-loved cars available.
We all would like to have a brand new car, however if you buy a used car now, and can wait a couple of years, with the money you will have saved, you could then look at new cars and possibly be upgrading on the type of car you originally desired. The depreciation in new vehicles is at it's greatest during the first two years, and you could purchase a two year old BMW for the price of a new Camry.
You can find well looked after two year old used cars, having done less than 30,000 km that look brand new, and have way more features than you could afford in a brand new car. You definitely want to have the basics like dual airbags and anti-lock brakes not only because of safety but also due to the fact that it will save you on your car insurance. Some vehicles even have side and rear airbags.
When buying a used car have a good look at the wear and tear of the interior. It is unfortunately all too common, that people who do not look after the interior of their car, including keeping the exterior protected, also give little thought to looking after the vehicle mechanically. If you are looking at a vehicle with torn seats, stained carpets and the like, give it a miss, keep on looking.
Also important, the tire tread wear. Be on the look-out for worn tires, including uneven tread wear indicating an wheel alignment problem. When you road test the vehicle take your hands off the wheel for a second and see if the vehicle drifts. Check and make sure that there is a spare and that it is in good condition.
Damaged paint work is easy to spot with a close inspection. If body panels appear a bit out of alignment, there is a good chance it has had parts replaced, most probably due to some accident. If any doors are difficult to close, the vehicle may have been in some major accident. Have a mechanic look the vehicle over, checking the fluids, lights, belts, charging system, and air conditioning system, also get them put it on a lift and check the underneath of the vehicle for any frame damage, or damage repair.
Also always keep in mind, it the price is too good to be true, there is probably a catch in there somewhere. Best to walk away and continue your search elsewhere before buying a used car.
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