Compare The Three Ways Buying A Used Car Changes Your Consumer Perspective

The Devil's In The Details: Three Ways Buying A Used Car Changes Your Consumer Perspective

When you buy a used car, there's less transparency for you as a consumer than when you buy new. Here are three ways your perspective differs, and how to give yourself an advantage with each one.

The Safety Rating Of The Vehicle

Factors that influence safety ratings may be different when you buy a car than when it was produced; also, it may be difficult to find the rating for your specific make, model and year of manufacture. The National Highway Transportation and Safety Administration (NHTSA) has a website where you should be able to find the safety rating for your car of interest, but if not, the following features are essential for protection:

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Traction control: Improves the stability of the car during rapid acceleration.

Electronic stability control: Aids in steering under frantic or extreme conditions, such as sliding in snow or on ice.

Vehicle weight: A heavier car means less force is absorbed by occupants in a crash, making it safer than a lighter model.

Air bags: Front and side air bags protect against occupants making impact with the windshield, steering wheel, dash and side door or oncoming vehicle. Previously deployed bags can't be reused, thus, it's imperative that you check your used car is equipped.

Depreciation Of Your New Used Car

If you don't plan on driving your used vehicle until its completely worn out and ready for the automotive graveyard, you should consider the various factors affecting depreciation. Although depreciation eventually slows down as a car ages, it will change how much you're able to sell for later, and be influenced by these numbers:

Availability of the model: Supply and demand increases or decreases value.

Features: A car loaded with features may retain value