7845 NORTH LOOP DR EL PASO, TX 79915 915-201-4000

The Pros and Cons of Used Cars

Buying a car is not only a need these days, it is also a statement. Yes, we need the vehicle to get around, but many people also like the look of it.  This is why so much care goes into the design, and color of any car. It is also why people spend do much time trying to find a car that fits ‘them’. For many people this can mean getting a brand new car. It’s a statement of class and wealth, but not everybody can afford one. There is no shame in this, as there are still many options available to you. If you are in the market for a car, then consider getting an older model. Sport Auto Center has fine quality used cars for sell. Before you make a purchase, consider the pros and cons of buying a car that is older.


Pros of Used Cars

There are many pros to buying and owning a used car. The first pro is that the price will be cheaper than a new one. For a person on a budget, this is the best option. Not only will you save money, but many of these cars are still under warranty. This means that you may still have coverage for certain damages or issues. The second pro is that you already know the quality of the car. If a car has performed well for the past five years. Then it is reasonable to assume it will continue to perform for the next five. Most cars that are ten years and younger still perform at the same level as a new car. This of course will depend on the car itself. The final pro is that you can get something vintage. If you like a certain style of car, then you can buy it.

Cons of Used Cars

There are also many cons to buying and owning a used car. The first con is that the life of the vehicle may almost be over. If you purchase a car that is fifteen years or older, then it may be dying. All cars have an expiration date. Even if the car performed well during those years, it can still break down. The second con is that the car may need repairs. This can be an issue depending on the age of the car. Replacing parts is not so bad, so long as they are not expensive parts. But if the car needs a new engine, then it is not worth it. The last con is that if the car is not good quality, you may end up spending more money.


Buying a car can be difficult. You must fit your budget and get something you like too. Getting an older car does not have to be a last resort. It can be the best option. Not all cars are created equal of course, but there will be some that suit your needs. Sport Auto Center has dozens of different used cars to choose from. They will have something that will suit your specific needs.

Decision Making Tips from a Used Car Dealership

If you aren’t a great decision maker, your first time at a used car dealership might be a little overwhelming. Used car lots offer many fantastic options for prospective buyers to choose from, and it can be easy to get caught in a tough decision between two beautiful, functional vehicles. Luckily, the professionals at Sport Auto Center in El Paso are experts at helping buyers choose the car that works best for them. From lifestyle to personal flair, there are several factors that go into this decision. Here are a few guidelines for choosing the perfect car at a used car dealership.

Guidelines for Finding the Perfect Car


  1. Create a Budget: This is a great place to start because it gives you a general idea of what kind of car you can afford to buy right now. While your budget can be somewhat flexible (think of ranges rather than set numbers), you shouldn’t sway too much from your budget. When it comes to your monthly car payment, a good recommendation is not allocating any more than 20 percent of your monthly take home wages.

  2. Determine Your Lifestyle Needs: Do you have a long commute to and from work? If so, you need a functional vehicle that you can rely on in all kinds of weather. Do you have a large family or small children? Look for a safe, mid-sized vehicle with plenty of room for car seats and minimal opportunity for stains (just say no to light colored interior!). Are you a weekend road trip warrior? You probably want a car that has great gas mileage and a stellar stereo system. Every car buyer is unique, and individual lifestyles play a hug role in determining need.

  3. Consider Your Wants: Now, you get to think about your “dream car”. Is there a particular model you have always wanted? A certain car color that always catches your eye? Make a list of your highest priorities in the “want” category. While these wants might not be realistic with your budget, used car dealers are often able to help car buyers find cars that are comparable to their dream cars - for a significantly lower price.  

  4. Work With a Car Dealer: Used car dealers know a thing or two about cars, and they are a great resource for people who are in the market for a new vehicle. They can help buyers synthesize their budget, needs, and wants, ultimately coming to a conclusion about the best options for the car shopper. Ultimately, of course, the decision is up to you! But a car dealer can provide wisdom and guidance in the midst of the decision process.

 

A Dependable Used Car Dealership


At Sport Auto Center, we don’t just go through the motions of selling cars. We believe that every customer matters, and we are committed to helping car buyers make the best decision based on their budget and preferences. Car buyers shouldn’t have to feel overwhelmed or stressed when choosing between multiple vehicle options. When you work with a dependable used car dealership like Sport Auto Center in El Paso, you can rest assured that you are working with professionals that care.


How Much Should You Spend on a Used Car

Reliable transportation is growing more and more essential to daily life. However, the price of a new car is sometimes just too high. Getting a used car is great option, but can also be expensive. Sport Auto Center has many used cars at different prices to fit your budget. There are a two things to keep in mind when shopping for a used car. First, you must know your budget, and then what kind of car you can get with your budget.

What is the Budget?


When it comes time to buy a used car, budget is always important. But what budget allows for what kind of car? There are a few tips to make sure you buy a used car that will not end up bankrupting you. The way you discover your budget is to first find your income. This starts by taking your monthly income. Then you subtract your monthly expenses. This should include all outgoing bills, like rent or mortgage, utilities, and any credit cards or debt you are paying back. After this, subtract the needs. This would be groceries, insurance and food money. After you have done this, you will have a dollar amount left over. This is where the car payment will come from.


Out of that money amount you must ask yourself how much you willing to spend from that. Now, that leftover money should be thought of as extra, and it is not advisable to say the whole amount can be used for a payment. The reason for this is because that leaves you little to no cushion in case of an emergency. Cars are great machines, but they will have extra costs. You want to make sure you have enough money left over for payments and emergencies.


What is Available on Your Budget?


Now that you know what your budget is, it is time to figure out what kind of used car you can get. Depending on how much you can afford each month, the available car may be a compact, a four door, or maybe an SUV, truck or van. Once you know your price range, finding cars in that range is much easier. This is also helpful for when you do to a used car dealer, as you can tell them what kind of car you are looking for and for what price. All this will make you trip to the dealership less stressful and hopefully faster as well.


Buying a used car is a great way to stay within your budget and provide you with daily transport. Sport Auto Center has cars at different prices to help you get the right price for you. Before you head to the dealer though, remember to have your budget written out, and what cars fall into your budget range. Doing this will help you find the right car, at the right price.


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