When you decide it’s time for a new car, the first thought might be to look at the latest models. They come shiny, new, and full of fresh tech, but they also come with a big price tag. Many people are realizing that buying used can be a smarter and much more rewarding move. It often saves money, gives better value, and even opens the door to more interesting options.
Choosing used doesn’t mean settling for less. In fact, the right used car can offer style, performance, and reliability, without making your wallet hurt for years.
Among all the vehicles I’ve owned, only Noah the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon was brand new from the dealership. God forbid a young 21-year-old makes some financial mistakes. Though I was able to sell it for a decent price during the pandemic shortage.
On the flip side, Hitomi the BMW Z4 was a Certified Pre-Owned vehicle from BMW. I avoided the harsh German car depreciation in the first few years. All the LandCruisers I’ve owned were imported to Canada, which means they were over 15 years old by the time they landed.
Now I’ve told you my stand on buying new vs. buying used. Here’s why picking a used car could be one of the best choices you’ll make.
Save big on the initial cost
One of the clearest benefits of buying used is avoiding that immediate hit of depreciation. A new car can lose value fast, sometimes thousands of dollars within the first year alone. Especially European vehicles.
Choosing something like a pre-owned BMW lets a buyer enjoy luxury and performance at a fraction of the original price. It feels just as good to drive, but comes with a much smarter price tag. My BMW Z4 was a great example. Plus, some dealership offers extended warranties for their certified pre-owned vehicles. So you don’t have to worry about the maintenance surprises on an older vehicle.
Hitomi was blue from the factory. But because it was purchased at a discount as a pre-owned vehicle, I had the leftover budget to make it uniquely mine through modifications.
This is not to say that everyone should “pimp up” their car. But the fact that I was able to experience this shows the future potential after reducing the initial cost.
If modification is not for you, you can relocate that leftover budget to something more productive for your life.
Get better features for less money
New cars often tempt buyers with upgraded packages, but those extras cost a lot when buying brand new. On the used market, those same features are much more affordable because the car’s value has already dropped due to depreciation.
This makes finding a reliable car loaded with extras way easier, even on a tighter budget. You can enjoy leather seats, better sound systems, or advanced safety features without spending top dollar. A few of my LandCruisers have a Cold Weather Package from Japan. This makes them more suitable for the Canadian winter.
A wider range of models to explore
Shopping for used cars means there’s a bigger range of models, years, and styles available to choose from. You’re not stuck with only what’s new at the dealership that month.
Some people (did I say that’s me?) even go looking for special models like discontinued JDM cars, which offer a unique mix of style, history, and driving experience. It’s a way to get a car that really stands out without having to spend a fortune on something rare.
Lower insurance costs
Insurance companies usually charge less for used cars because the replacement cost is lower. This means monthly expenses are lighter and easier to manage compared to insuring a brand-new vehicle.
Saving money on insurance helps stretch the budget further, giving room for more upgrades or fun road trips without stressing about extra bills every month.
Less stress over small scratches and dents
Driving a brand-new car often brings a certain fear about every little scratch or door ding. With a used car, there’s less pressure to keep everything looking absolutely perfect.
This makes it easier to really enjoy the car instead of worrying constantly about keeping it showroom new. After all, a car is meant to be driven and loved, not hidden away. I’m looking at all the “BC Pinstrips” on my car when saying this.
Buying used can offer real advantages, from saving money to opening up more choices. It’s about making smart decisions that fit your lifestyle, without feeling like you’re giving anything up. In the end, the right used car can bring just as much excitement and pride as any brand-new one.