Used Cars & College
The temperature may be saying otherwise, but summer is quickly drawing to a close. Beach trips and adventures will soon be squeezed into weekends and afternoons. With school back in session in just a few weeks, getting the right car at the best price is at the top of your list! Whether campus is up the street or across the state, arriving in style is important. Here’s how to find your ride and stay on your budget.
What’s your budget?
School is expensive, particularly if you have more than one scholar heading to college. The first thing to consider when looking for a back-to-school vehicle is what a reasonable budget might be. How much you can afford for a down payment and monthly loan installments will determine your options.
Buying a used car for your child’s back-to-school travels is a smart choice. Many new cars will lose over half their value in the first five years. This can be quite a pill to swallow if you’re planning to upgrade anytime soon. Buying used means that someone else takes the hit for you!
How far are you driving?
Is school just down the road or a few hours across the state? Depending on your travel distance, a newer vehicle or one with an impressive miles-to-the-gallon may be the best choice. If school is nearby and only a short drive, an older car could be just right!
Have you done your research?
Practice what you preach: always do your homework! Once you establish your budget and the appropriate vehicle, it’s time to narrow down your selection to a list of ideal cars.
When creating this list, be sure to focus on practical options and vehicles that will suit yours and your child’s needs for the next few years without breaking the bank. Avoid big, luxury, or sporty cars, as costs are notably higher when it comes to maintenance, major repairs, insurance, and fueling.
Be sure to compare your picks with Consumer Reports. This publication collects data from over a million cars per year and presents reliability information that covers the past decade. You should also look into online reviews of the vehicles you’re considering, weighing the pros and cons of each. Ensuring that you’ve picked a reliable vehicle could save your loved one down the road.
Do you know what you’re buying?
Once you’ve narrowed your options, it’s time to check it out in person. When buying a used car, it’s important to inspect for flaws or damages. Look over the vehicle inside and out during the day when flaws and potential repairs are more easily seen. Getting it checked out thoroughly by a mechanic of your choosing is always a good idea too. A professional inspection won’t cost too much, and it’ll buy you both peace of mind.
For price details click on these smart back-to-school options from TM Auto’s inventory
Need help deciding or just want to take a closer look? Call (757)560-4552 and ask for Mike Love!
