What is the best time to buy a used car?
According to the latest Edmunds sales data, the best time of the year to buy a used car is in the months of November and December. The optimal time to purchase a used car is typically between 2 to 5 years old. Within this age range, the vehicle has already experienced the most significant depreciation, yet remains relatively new and in good condition.Our data indicates that October and November are still the months when car buyers can expect to get the best discounts. However, there are other notable factors that shoppers should also consider when purchasing a used car in today’s market.
What’s the best age to buy a used car?
The optimum age range for purchasing a used car is commonly recognized as falling between 2 to 5 years old. Within this timeframe, a car has traversed the steepest part of its depreciation curve while still maintaining relatively new and well-maintained conditions. One of the biggest risks of purchasing an older vehicle is the potential for high maintenance costs. Parts wear out over time, and older cars may require more frequent repairs. Even a car that’s just seven or eight years old can start to show signs of age in components like the suspension, brakes, and engine.
What is the oldest second-hand car you should buy?
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. The ideal age for a used car is generally between 3 to 4 years, having clocked 30,000 to 40,000 miles. This ‘sweet spot’ offers a perfect balance of modern features, significantly reduced depreciation, and lower maintenance costs, making it a smart choice for savvy buyers.A general rule of thumb for car mileage is that the average vehicle accrues about 10,000 to 12,000 miles per year. To determine if a used car has good mileage, divide the odometer reading by the car’s age. For example, if you’re looking at a 5-year-old car, a good mileage range would be between 50,000 and 60,000 miles.