For many people who live in rural areas, having a reliable mode of transportation is a must. If you’re in the market for a vehicle, you have several options. You can purchase a new one or a previously owned certified used vehicle. Of course, it’s not a decision to take lightly and you should always weigh the pros and cons of each situation. 

Type of Vehicle 

There are a variety of different makes and models of vehicles to choose from. Before venturing out, it’s always in your best interest to figure out what you can afford and narrow the search ahead of time. Decide on the type of vehicle you’re looking to purchase. For example, do you want a small car, truck or an SUV? Is there a particular manufacturer that appeals to you? If you’re unsure, companies such as CoPilot car search can help you narrow the search to include only the types that work for you. 

First Owner 

When you buy a brand new car you are its first owner. This means everything is pristine. There are no marks inside and no dings on the exterior. When you buy a car that’s a couple of years old, such as one fresh off a 2-year lease, it will be in good condition, however, it will show signs of prior use. 

Pricing 

While a new vehicle is wonderful, it comes with a hefty price tag. Unfortunately, the cost of the vehicle isn’t limited to the sticker price. You’ll also pay more in states that charge excise tax. On the other hand, if you opt to purchase a vehicle with low mileage off a 2-year lease from a dealership, you can save money across the board.

Your monthly payment, as well as the excise tax, will be lower.  Additionally, if you’re in the market for a luxury vehicle such as a Mercedes, you can expect to pay more for your insurance. In this instance, deciding to go with a previously owned vehicle can make it more affordable. 

Older Parts 

One of the main reasons you’re looking for a new car is to improve reliability and performance. Over time, vehicles begin to show the tell-tale signs of aging. They become sluggish, have lower gas mileage and begin to make strange sounds.

If you want to keep your money in your pocket and not worry about laying out for costly repairs, a new vehicle will provide a few years of that comfort. However, don’t dismiss purchasing a previously used vehicle from a reputable dealership as they generally perform a full check of the parts and provide an extended warranty. 

Limited Selection 

One of the advantages to buying a new car is the ability to select the color and add-on features. You can literally customize the vehicle to suit your needs. For instance, if you like to fish or camp, you can add a tow or if you want over the open road, you can add a luggage rack.

Adding these things later on will not only cost more, but they can also cause damage to your vehicle’s exterior. When you decide to go with a used car, you only have available the colors and models on the dealership’s lot. And, unfortunately, you won’t have the option of adding on any features. 

Higher Interest Rate 

A new vehicle is less worrisome for a lender versus one that’s previously owned. This often results in paying a much higher interest rate for a used vehicle. So while you’re getting a reduced price by purchasing a used vehicle, your savings are reduced due to the extra money on your monthly interest. 

Most people will replace a vehicle every four years. Just make sure that you research pricing to receive the best rates and that you weigh the pros and cons when it comes to making the decision to buy used or brand new.