What is the minimum salary to qualify for a car?
Generally, you will need a monthly income of at least R6,000 – R10,000 to be considered for vehicle finance. This range ensures that you can cover the monthly instalments without compromising your ability to meet other essential expenses. According to Karen Bennett, senior consumer banking reporter at Bankrate, your monthly vehicle payment should not exceed 10 to 15 percent of your salary. To find this range for your salary, divide your annual pre-tax take-home salary by 12.
What’s the oldest used car you should buy?
How Age Affects Depreciation and Value. The sweet spot for used car buying is typically between 2-5 years old. During this period, cars have already undergone the sharpest depreciation (about 20-30% in the first year alone), making them significantly more affordable than a brand-new model. Evaluating the Depreciation Impact To maximize savings on a used car, it is advisable to seek a vehicle that has already weathered its most significant depreciation hit, which generally translates to a car that is at least 2 years old, preferably falling within the 3 to 4-year-old range.
What is the cheapest way to get a new car?
Generally, buying a car outright is the cheapest way of owning a new car, as you’ll only be paying the cost of the vehicle, without interest. But if you do not have the money upfront, or you do not want to pay a lump sum straight away, leasing is an alternative. The right choice depends on your budget, driving habits, and long-term plans. If you want to eventually own your vehicle and drive as much as you like, financing might be a better fit. If you prefer lower monthly payments and a new vehicle every few years, leasing could be the way to go.
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. A well-maintained 7-8-year-old car with a solid service history can still be a reliable choice, but anything older may begin to show wear, both mechanically and aesthetically.If reliability is your top priority, you probably don’t want to buy a vehicle that’s too old. After all, the older a car is, the less reliable it’s likely to be, even if it’s a well-maintained, low-mileage vehicle with a good reputation, such as a Toyota or Honda.