Used Cars For Sale in Pretoria | Quality Pre-Owned Cars | Citton Cars (2024)

FAQs

How old of a used car is the best deal? ›

If your goal is to save on a pre-owned vehicle, it's advisable to seek one that has already undergone most of its depreciation. This entails finding a car that is at least two years old, but ideally between three and four years old.

Key takeaways. Buying a new car allows for customization and the latest technology, but it comes at a higher price and depreciates quickly. Used cars are less expensive and slower to depreciate, but may require compromises and can come with higher maintenance costs.

Potential Longevity:

A well-maintained 20-year-old car with low mileage may still have many miles left in its tank. If the vehicle has been stored properly and received regular maintenance, it could provide reliable transportation for several more years.

When buying a car that's 10 years old or older, your primary concerns are purchase price and reliability. Don't pay more than the fair market value for that decade-old car. Additionally, pick a vehicle with a solid reputation for dependability. No car is really too old if you follow those rules.

There's no rule to how many miles on a used car is too much, but by attempting to stick to the 12,000 miles per year rule is a great place to start. Find out how old the car is, multiple the number of years by 12,000, and if the number on the odometer is significantly higher than that, some concern might be warranted.

Beyond this point, even the most reliable cars may start showing indications of usage and deterioration. Consumer reports note that while the typical lifespan of a new vehicle is approximately 8 years or 150,000 miles, well-maintained vehicles can surpass 15 years and overcome 300,000 miles.

Check Market Price

Checking the market price from an outside source, such as Kelly Blue Book can help you know the fair market value of the car you're considering. Once you know the fair market price, you'll be able to tell if the car you're considering is reasonably priced or not.

Never go to a dealership acting rushed, even if you need a car immediately—they'll take advantage of it. Many salespeople say they won't pressure or rush you into buying, but they usually do it anyway. If you feel the sales process is moving too fast, tell the salesperson that you'll come back at another time.

What additional costs should you consider before purchasing a car? ›

If reliability and safety are paramount, a newer car with moderate mileage might be the ideal choice. This ensures access to the latest safety features and improved fuel efficiency while minimizing the risks associated with aging components.

Looking at the used car market, there's good news for patient buyers. Used car prices have been falling for months, and we expect prices to fall further in the second half of 2024. New car incentives will continue to pull buyers away from used car lots.

Sticker price and depreciation

Price is the most obvious difference between a new or used car. Used cars are generally cheaper than a brand-new car.

When shopping, is there a best age for purchasing a used car? Cars are usually reliable for up to five years if they've been looked after. But a well-maintained 10-year-old car could be a better investment than a newer model that hasn't been cared for as well. Budget is also a major factor.

Car shopping? Buying a used car can save you money, but you'll want to check the vehicle's age and the number on its odometer to get an even greater value. According to Autotrader, the best used vehicle should be between four and six years old, and have less than 50,000 miles.

The Best Time to Buy a Used Car

Purchasing a used vehicle that is 2-3 years old means that you are getting a relatively new car in good condition without being affected heavily by depreciation. However, you stand a chance to save even more if you purchase an older car.

Within the first year, many cars will lose up to 20% of their value. After that, they may lose about 15% more per year until the four-or five-year mark.