If you’re looking for a car for your retirement years, there are many advantages to going second-hand. It’s important to weigh up your options, however. Consider how often you’re going to be driving and how far. There are other transport options available. Having said that, in general, used cars are great value for money. You have plenty of nearly-new vehicles to choose from and you won’t have to worry about depreciation. The latest models are also more efficient and completely safe. Here are five reasons why you should consider a second-hand car for your retirement.
Avoid new car depreciation
The problem with new cars is that they not only cost more from the get-go, but they also decrease in value immediately. As soon as you drive your car out of the dealership it will already have gone down in value. Used cars don’t go through the same depreciation. They would have when they were first bought, so you can avoid this. This makes them a better investment and you’ll lose out less if you sell in the future. Here is a quick guide to car depreciation.
Get nearly-new quality
You can get second-hand vehicles that are as good as new. Whether you’re interested in finding a second hand Mercedes or even a caravan for road trips, you can rest assured you’ll get quality. It’s not necessary to splash out on a brand new vehicle. If you opt for one of the latest models you can enjoy smart features and energy efficiency for a much lower price.
Variety of choice
There’s a wide variety of choice out there. There has even been a drop in luxury used car prices so you can get more bang for your buck. You can look for a used car online, or at a used car dealership. It’s up to you whether to go with a private seller or not. If you do decide to buy a second-hand car from an individual ensure they can provide all the necessary paperwork.
Used cars are certified and checked
Used cars should be certified and checked. When buying one it’s important to find out about its latest MOT and to double-check all documentation. Another good thing about used cars is that they’ve already been tried and tested. You can read reviews and performance statistics online. Maintenance costs also tend to be lower. Manufacturers may offer a service plan too. In any case, if you keep your car in excellent condition, you could save money on repairs down the line.
An eco-friendly option
A second-hand vehicle is a better choice if you want to be an eco-friendly driver. There will be no environmental impact caused by production and transportation, especially if you buy as locally as possible. You could even consider opting for a used electric or hybrid vehicle. There are plenty on the market already. Do your research and find out which models have the lowest emissions overall. Look for the car that best suits your needs and lifestyle.