Second-hand cars have many advantages, but it would be foolish to assume that there cannot also be problems with a poorly chosen used car purchase. The problematic criterion with second-hand car’s purchase is their age. Let us take a look.
Too New
Buying a nearly new second-hand car sounds like a dream, but in fact they come with all the problems of a brand-new car, and you miss out on that lovely new car smell and the pride of being a first time owner! Nearly new cars tend to be priced very similar to new cars, and along with that comes higher insurance and road tax, more expensive spares and – if still under the manufacturer’s warranty – a limited choice of garages that are able to properly service and/ or repair your car. This applies to cars one year old and younger.
Too Old
Old cars are often already in a state of deterioration. This can occur when you have just bought your used car, finding it to be in reasonable condition at the time, only to begin a cascade of failures in the following months. Repairs and spares are expensive, and having just paid for a new-to-you car, you do not want to then invest in the car to the point that it becomes an unwise and overly expensive purchase. As a rule of thumb, cars older than five years old should probably be avoided unless you are absolutely certain that it is in great, well-maintained condition.
Just Right!
The perfect age for an environmentally conscious investment in an existing car that will not cost too much, and yet will run smoothly for several years, is somewhere between two and three years old. At this age, the car may not even have had its first MOT, and is all but certain to be in excellent condition, unless it has been driven very badly in its short life on the road. The price will be around 60% of the cost of a new car, representing a splendid saving – and one that will translate into cheaper insurance and road tax too.
By aiming for that ‘Goldilocks zone’ of a two- to three-year-old car when you are choosing a second-hand vehicle, you will enjoy years of trouble-free – and guilt-free – driving for a fraction of the cost that you might expect to pay. So, if you feel the inclination to treat yourself then we would recommend you to enjoy the amazing summer deals offered by KAP Motors; our preferred used car dealer, and get yourself a used car in Brighton with easy financing packages.