Automobile prices in recent years have continued to climb. The factors behind rising car prices can be rather complex, but fortunately, there are some steps you can take to increase your chances of securing a great deal. Given how much of an investment a vehicle is, any savings secured can go a long way.
Many are wondering why car prices have risen in recent years. Part of this was due to the COVID-19 pandemic and supply chain disruptions. Yet even setting that aside, prices have generally been trending up as vehicles have become more technology-rich. The good news is that even entry-level automobiles these days often offer exceptional safety, high-quality, and cutting-edge tech. Unfortunately, that often means shelling out more of your hard-earned cash.
Want to save cash when picking up a new ride? Follow the suggestions below.
Be Realistic About What You Need
That beautiful pickup truck with a V-8 engine may draw your eyes in the car dealer lot. Certainly, the modern pickup truck can be one heck of a vehicle. Before buying one, however, it’s smart to ask if that’s what you need. If you’re using the vehicle primarily to get to work and back, a smaller crossover SUV or a compact sedan can save you a lot of cash.
It’s not just about the sticker price at the dealership, either. More expensive vehicles often command higher insurance premiums. Interest rates also add up, so keep that in mind if you’re financing the vehicle. The former may be much more affordable if you can pay off a small SUV in 3 years versus a large truck in 5 years.
Many large vehicles today enjoy competitive gas mileage with a family sedan that rolled out of the factory twenty years ago. Still, smaller modern cars can save you a lot at the pump.
Consider Buying a Used Vehicle
It’s hard to beat that new car smell. However, those scents often come at a hefty premium. You can typically save quite a bit by buying a used vehicle. It’s commonly said that a vehicle loses several thousand dollars in value as soon as it rolls out of the lot. That often proves true. Car buyers can use a gently used ride to their advantage.
“Used” doesn’t necessarily mean a ten-year-old or even a five-year-old vehicle. Often, you can find a used car that’s just a year or two old and still packed with modern amenities. However, the price tag for a gently used car can be much lower than for a brand-new car.
How can you find a used car easily? Online search engines can be a great way to find used car dealerships in Jackson MI, or nearest you.