Consider The Mileage

This might go without saying – of course the mileage will affect the car’s value. But in some cases, the mileage can be just a number. For instance, you’ll want to consider how often you intend to drive this car. Lower mileage is always better, but 100K might be more feasible than you’d think if you don’t have a long daily commute.

Next, look into the make and model of the vehicle. Some cars tend to last longer than others, with multiple variables ranging from its engine, to computer systems and many other factors. You’ll never be able to fully anticipate all potential risks, but researching the most common issues for said make and model might narrow down some of your risks.

Review Its Fuel Economy

As with the mileage, the fuel economy will be vastly more important, depending on how often you intend to drive your car. While it might sound extreme at first, the price you’re paying for fuel on a monthly basis can really add up, especially if the car lasts you for 3-5 years. Just think about an extra $20 per month in expenses for 3 years – that’s a whopping $720! Consider whether you’ll be driving more on highways or residential areas, too as this is significant for certain types of cars.

Compare The Engine Type With Your Lifestyle

Naturally, the stronger your engine, the more your car will be able to handle. But as expected, you’ll be paying a premium for better, stronger engines. So just as with the other factors, you’ll have to weigh the cost of the investment vs what you’ll really need. We’re sure you know this, but just in case… if you’re planning on towing anything, don’t skimp on the engine.

Amenities

If you think this is entirely trivial because you just want something that gets you from point a to point b, you can skip this. But having even just a few bells and whistles can really change the experience you have with your car, especially if you drive often.Think to yourself “is this something I will enjoy (or at least appreciate) for up to a few years”?

Review The Car’s History

Even the best looking cars aren’t what they appear to be. Especially if the price seems ‘too good to be true’. So before potentially making a huge money-burning mistake, take a few days and spend $39.99 on a single Carfax report.

Carfax will outline major points in the vehicle’s history, like:

• past accidents
• major mechanical work, like engine and transmission replacements
• amount of past owners
• maintenance dates and records

Consider The Style

Again, if you’re just a “point a to point b” kind of person, this shouldn’t concern you much. But for the rest of us, the kind of car we drive kind of defines us. It’s not that we won’t drive a car that’s not to our liking, but more than we’d rather not if we can spare the extra few dollars. So really think to yourself – is this a car I’ll be somewhat happy and proud to drive for the next 3-5 years?

Weigh Its Safety Features

Safety is important and while some of the highest levels of safety features found on vehicles like Volvo, you might be surprised what more economically-priced cars have to offer beyond seat belts and airbags.

Check The Car’s Insides

Did the past owner(s) upkeep the car’s interior? This is really important, especially if you’re going to be driving this car for a while. Factors like:

• maintaining leather seats
• maintaining leather seats
• maintaining leather seats
• the reception on the radio
• are all things that, at the very least impact the value and potential joy you can get out of your used car

Finally: Weigh The Total Pros and Cons

With all of these factors considered, simply weigh the potential risks and rewards. Keep in mind there’s never a guarantee when buying a used car. It keeps some people up at night, while others find it to be part of the fun!

The post 9 Things to Consider When Buying a Used Car appeared first on Koshka.

Honda

Favorite Model: Honda CRV
Safety: 8
Power: 7
Efficiency: 7
Style: 8
Luxury: 6
Overall Ranking:7.2

We’re pretty big fans of Honda. They have a great lineup of practical vehicles with many great features standard. They might be a little pricier than other brands, but you’re getting more value, so give them a shot.

Hyundai

Favorite Model: Hyundai Sonata
Safety: 7
Power: 7
Efficiency: 7
Style: 7
Luxury: 6
Overall Ranking:6.8

Hyundai is another brand that provides solid value. The creator of the 10-year, 100,000 warranty builds their name for a reason and it’s because they make quality and affordable products. The one potential issue? Many of the features are no longer standard, so the price doesn’t always fit the end-line.

Kia

Favorite Model: Kia Optima
Safety: 7
Power: 6
Efficiency: 7
Style: 7
Luxury: 5
Overall Ranking:6.4

From the same makers of Hyundai, Kia offers a similar product. There are ups and downs, relative to their manufacturing counterpart and overall we agree that they’re worth looking into. They’re starting to get more into electric cars, so check that out for an affordable alternative to other brands.

Nissan

Favorite Model: Nissan Maxima
Safety: 6
Power: 6
Efficiency: 7
Style: 6
Luxury: 7
Overall Ranking:6.4

For a solid balance of nice features and good mileage, Nissan might be the best choice for you. We see Nissan as hit or miss, depending on which sales are going on, for whatever reason, it seems like they have some of the best promotions that go on.

Toyota

Favorite Model: Toyota Rav4
Safety: 7
Power: 7
Efficiency: 6
Style: 5
Luxury: 6
Overall Ranking:6.2

We believe the strength of Toyota is in their crossovers and SUVs. While their sedans are solid, we don’t think they match up to the others, so if you find a good deal, great, but otherwise suggest going with the larger models. Maybe stay away from the trucks.

Mazda

Favorite Model: Mazda6
Safety: 6
Power: 7
Efficiency: 6
Style: 8
Luxury: 7
Overall Ranking:6.8

For a few more bucks, you can size up to a more sporty look in a Mazda. They’re not as strong in varying conditions but can be great for warmer climates and have some fun features that might pique your interest. Interiors might take the cake on this list, if not, top 3.

Subaru

Favorite Model: Subaru Impreza
Safety: 8
Power: 7
Efficiency: 7
Style: 8
Luxury: 8
Overall Ranking:7.6

Subaru is a little pricier, but worth it in our opinion. You get great packages with award-winning safety features, plus the cars are known to last a long time, relative to its competition. Some of their crossovers can do pretty well offroading, just don’t get too ahead of yourself.

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