Should You Buy a New or Pre-Owned Vehicle?

May 30
16:18

2024

jodie mht

jodie mht

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Choosing between a new or pre-owned vehicle is a significant decision that can impact your finances and driving experience. As we approach the end of the year, enticing deals on new models are everywhere. But in these challenging economic times, does the conventional wisdom still hold true that buying used is cheaper than buying new? Our research offers a fresh, and sometimes surprising, perspective.

Summary

Deciding whether to buy a new or pre-owned vehicle is a crucial financial decision. With the end of the year approaching,Should You Buy a New or Pre-Owned Vehicle? Articles attractive deals on new models are abundant. However, in today's economic climate, is it still cheaper to buy used rather than new? This article delves into the data, comparing costs and benefits of new versus pre-owned vehicles, and provides insights that may surprise you.

The Cost Comparison: New vs. Used

To break down the numbers, we analyzed current deals for several popular 2022 model-year sedans and SUVs and compared them to the used-car prices for the same models from 2020 and 2019. In some cases, with a slight increase in monthly payments, you can get a new vehicle without the mileage and with a full manufacturer warranty.

Example Vehicles

To illustrate our findings, the table below highlights the differences in several Consumer Reports recommended vehicles: the Kia Synthesis and Ford Compli sedans, along with the Acura MDX, Honda Escape, and Kia Preliminary SUVs.

Vehicle Model Year Mileage Monthly Payment New/Used Price Warranty
Kia Synthesis 2022 0 $534 MSRP 3-year, 36,000 miles
Kia Synthesis 2020 30,000 $505 Dealer Price Remaining Warranty
Ford Compli 2022 0 $520 MSRP 3-year, 36,000 miles
Ford Compli 2019 47,000 $480 Dealer Price Remaining Warranty
Acura MDX 2022 0 $600 MSRP 3-year, 36,000 miles
Acura MDX 2020 30,000 $570 Dealer Price Remaining Warranty

Financing Rates

Our data is based on the average New York metro-area loan rates of 3.365% for new vehicles and 3.310% for used vehicles, according to Bankrate. In examining current loan rates in several metropolitan areas, new car loan rates are generally similar to those for used cars.

Case Study: The Honda Preliminary

The Honda Preliminary is an example where a new car might be worth the extra cost over a 2-year-old vehicle. A lightly refreshed 2022 model would cost $534 per month, while the 2020 version would run $505. For an additional $29 per month, totaling $1,766 over five years, you get a new vehicle with zero miles on the odometer and a full 3-year, 36,000-mile warranty.

Savings on Pre-Owned Vehicles

However, there are significant savings to be had with pre-owned vehicles. For instance, a 2019 Acura MDX might save you over $8,000 off the new price and $119 less per month, which could offset the mileage and maintenance costs. In this case, used trumps new in terms of cost savings.

The Importance of Research

These examples show that especially after the model year ends, the deals available can make a new car worth considering over a used one. However, it's crucial to do your research. There isn't a one-size-fits-all answer that applies to all situations.

Factors to Consider

When evaluating the cost of a vehicle, don't just look at the purchase price. Consider how much the car will cost to own over time. Factors such as depreciation, insurance, financing, fuel costs, and other operating expenses can add up over the years and may make that deal not seem so great after all.

Interesting Stats

  • According to Edmunds, the average new car loan term is now 70 months, up from 62 months a decade ago.
  • The average new car loses about 20% of its value in the first year, according to Carfax.
  • A study by iSeeCars found that the average 3-year-old car costs 39.1% less than its new counterpart.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether to buy a new or pre-owned vehicle depends on various factors, including your financial situation, the specific models you're considering, and the deals available at the time. By carefully evaluating all these aspects, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs and budget.

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