buying used vs new which is right for you blog

couple speaking with salesperson in showroom discussing Used vs New car purchase

Buying Used vs. New: Which is Right for You?


Find Your New-to-You Vehicle in Leesburg, FL

Shopping for a vehicle is an exciting experience. The decision between buying used vs. new has several pros and cons, and your ultimate decision should be based on your budget, lifestyle, and driving needs. The team at Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM of Leesburg is here to help drivers around Fruitland Park, Leesburg, and The Villages find the perfect used or new vehicle.

Pros & Cons of Buying a New Car

The smell of a new car is definitely a benefit of buying a new car, but it isn’t the only one. New vehicles come with the latest features, factory warranties, and peace of mind. But they also come with high sticker prices.

When you choose a new car, you’ll get the latest safety, entertainment, and performance features. Many new cars have impressive fuel efficiency, especially when compared to older model years. Full warranty protection usually lasts for the first 36 months and 36,000 miles on new Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and RAM vehicles. Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and RAM offer financing and lease specials on their new car lineups. Best of all, new cars do not have any wear and tear from previous owners.

That new car sticker price will have depreciation, usually between 20% and 30% in the first year. New cars also have higher insurance premiums than used cars, especially if they come with advanced features that are expensive to repair and replace.

Pros & Cons of Buying Used

Used cars are great choices for drivers who want value and performance. They are more affordable than new cars since they’ve already experienced depreciation. Many drivers find they can afford a better model and trim level when they buy used. Insurance rates are usually lower, and shoppers get more variety when they shop for a used car.

On the flip side, used cars usually don’t have full manufacturer’s warranties, and adding extended warranty protection can be expensive. Used cars often have higher maintenance costs because they need more frequent repairs. Even with vehicle history reports, shoppers still experience uncertainty about how a car was driven and maintained by the previous owner. Tech features can also be dated in used cars.

Which is Right for You?

Before you choose to buy a used or new car, take a few moments to figure out your budget and priorities. If you are looking for a low monthly payment, a used car might be best. People who want to keep their car for more than five years often benefit from buying new.

If you prioritize safety features and technology, a new car will satisfy that need. Drivers who are okay with a little uncertainty might be able to save money with a used car, but only after hiring a mechanic for an independent inspection and doing a thorough vehicle history check.

Browse the New & Used Inventory at Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM of Leesburg in Fruitland Park, FL

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to buying used vs. new, as both have advantages and disadvantages. At Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM of Leesburg, we recommend visiting our dealership to take your favorite cars for a test-drive and meeting with our finance team before you make your choice.