Why should I buy a used car?

Buying a car is a big decision, and for many drivers, deciding between a new and used vehicle is one of the most important factors. Brand-new vehicles offer an appeal that used cars cannot match. The latest features, shiny-new paint, and the new car smell are just some of the reasons behind this, used cars are often more practical and are more easily affordable for many.

One of the biggest factors of buying used is cost as a typically comes with a significantly lower price tag than one fresh off the factory floor. This means you can often afford a higher trim level or can now get a model that's better-equipped with newer features. You get more car for your money, whether that's a vehicle with upgraded features, more space, or a more recognized brand than you'd otherwise consider.

Another major advantage of buying used is depreciation, with new cars losing a large portion of their value the second they're driven off the lot. With a used vehicle, that sharp depreciation curve has already occurred. You’re buying a car that holds its value more steadily, which means less financial loss if you decide to sell or trade it in at a later date.

Buying used also opens up a wider variety of options. The new car market is limited to the latest model year offerings, but the used market gives you access to multiple years, body styles, and configurations. Whether you’re looking for a car with great mileage for daily commutes, an SUV to carry around the family, or a pickup for weekend projects, the used market offers flexibility to find exactly what fits your lifestyle needs and budget.

With advancements in automotive engineering and materials, today's used vehicles are more reliable than ever, often lasting well beyond 100,000 miles. You can find a well-maintained, late-model vehicle with plenty of life left—without paying the premium that comes with buying new. Many dealerships like Bommarito Volkswagen thoroughly inspect and recondition their used inventory, giving buyers more peace of mind.

Another overlooked benefit of buying used is lower ownership costs beyond the purchase price. Insurance premiums are often lower for used vehicles, and registration fees in many states are based on vehicle age and value—meaning you could pay less each year to keep your car on the road.

In short, buying a used car allows you to make a smart financial decision without compromising on quality or capability. It’s a practical route to vehicle ownership and offers flexibility, value, and long-term savings.

If you're in the market for a vehicle, it’s worth taking a closer look at used options. With so many reliable models available and plenty of features to choose from, you might just find that a used car checks all the right boxes—and leaves a little extra in your budget for the road ahead.