I disagree on the not buying new cars. The last several times I’ve bought vehicles I’ve found that used ones were priced almost as high as I could negotiate for a new one. People seem to think a car increases in value if it’s been driven by them for three years. I’d much rather have a new car with zero miles and a full warranty than a three year old one with 50k miles for $3000 less. The small savings isn’t worth the decreased lifespan.
I agree. I buy a new car if I can. I keep it for a long long time, though.
That’s true recently. In the past the new vehicle depreciated so rapidly that a 2-3 year old used car was a great deal.
IF you didn’t buy someone else’s disaster. Things like ‘certified’ used vehicles, CarFax, and other services exist because in our new low-trust society people will, because they can, sell anything that rolls including cars that were underwater during floods or otherwise should-be-junked.
It’s very dynamic; and the real rule ought to be “whatever you buy, keep it as long as you can.” The people who need to have the latest thing or style buy themselves into trouble same as phones or clothes.
I’m of the same mind re: new cars and warranties. Especially since I got enough miles on me to preclude crawling under vehicles any more. There are some expensive elements on cars these days that can render what was a mode of transportation yesterday into a flowerpot tomorrow.
Mrs. M and I got where we are by eschewing new stuff for 35 years. But those days are gone.
I agree. I mostly buy new and pay cash. I do my shopping for quality as I keep cars 10 years or more.
I prefer to buy new vehicles. Since I keep them 6-7 years, the depreciation loss that happens after driving it off the lot is irrelevant.