Should I Buy New or Used?
Need a newer, better, more reliable mode of transportation but not sure if you should be considering a new car or a used vehicle? Maybe the Folsom Auto Mall can help! Read on to find out all the pros and cons of getting a new vs. used vehicle.
 
Should I Buy a Used Car?
Well, used cars are typically the cheaper option. You’ll be saving on depreciation. Depreciation is the reduction of a vehicle’s value over time - mostly due to wear and tear. But when it comes to new cars, they can lose as much as 10% of their value the moment they’re driven off the lot. A vehicle loses somewhere between 20-30% of its value by the end of its first year - and by year five, it’s lost over 60% of its initial value. So, buying late model used vehicles can save you thousands when compared to the new vehicle price. Some late model used vehicles may also come with the balance of their manufacturer warranties.
 
Usually, it’s easier to get credit approval for a used vehicle because there are lending companies who specialize in bad credit on cheaper used vehicles. There are “buy here, pay here” dealerships that act as the direct lender as opposed to offering financing through another bank or auto lender. However, if you have bad credit, it’s likely your finance rates will be sky high and it will take you much longer and cost way more to finance. However, because used cars can be so much less expensive, it’s possible to buy a used vehicle outright without the worry or added expense of a monthly payment at all.
 
Should I Get a New Car?
New cars typically cost more, but you might be able to keep your payment low by leasing. When you lease, the payments are much lower and you can usually afford a nicer, more upgraded vehicle and sometimes it’s easier to be approved for a lease. But you won’t own it, you’ll acquire no equity and you’ll have to return it at the end of your term. Low interest and sometimes even NO interest financing is available on new vehicles.
 
When you buy a new car, at the end of your loan term, you own the vehicle free and clear. That means you have equity in your vehicle. You can sell it for cash or trade it when you’re ready for a new vehicle, using its value as your substantial down payment. It will always have intrinsic value. Furthermore, new cars come with a full manufacturer’s warranty and sometimes free maintenance, which means peace of mind and less money out of pocket for service and repairs. Not to mention, that new car smell. 
 
So which is right for you? Obviously it varies, depending on your circumstance. How much money do you have? Do you want a car payment at all? Do you have money to put down? How’s your credit? Are you worried about service, repairs or maintenance? How long do you plan on keeping your vehicle? How important IS that new car smell? Come by the Folsom Auto Mall to check out your options and feel free to speak with a salesperson or finance team member to explore the pros and cons of getting a new or used vehicle. Or simple browse our new car inventory and used car inventory to see what’s currently available.

 
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