New car or used?

[teerossi]

I get my license in 2 months,

i need to get a car, but i dont know

if i want to get a brand new car off the lot

or buy a used one.

any suggestions on it?

I'm 16 years old, and not sure whether to buy

a new car on credit or make monthly payments on

a used car that costs about $6,000 - $7,000.

['97ventureowner]

I'd say at your age and driving experience that a used car would be your best option. There is plenty supply of good used cars out there and the depreciation has already been taken by the former owner. Plus it is a good credit building option to help you keep a good credit score to help you later in life when you have more money and may decide to buy a new car, or even a house. (Good credit is also a plus to get a good job or even a good rate on car insurance.) Also the car insurance will tend to be lower on used cars, especially with someone who is 16, and depending on the model year, you might be able to get away without certain coverages that are required for new cars.

[teerossi]

Thanks, i was leaning towards getting a used car,

but it just takes a long time to look and find a car

that fits your specific standards. plus, alot of the

used cars have problems with them. thats the only

downfall.

[Hungrycat7]

Don't go new! Once you drive the new one off the lot your asset has depreciated so much it would make you sick. Find a nice used car, no matter how long it takes. Most dealers are willing to find you a car if they don't have it too. IMO buying a new car is a waste of money since it will never be worth that price again!

['97ventureowner]

Originally Posted by teerossi

Thanks, i was leaning towards getting a used car,

but it just takes a long time to look and find a car

that fits your specific standards. plus, alot of the

used cars have problems with them. thats the only

downfall.

While that could have been a valid argument years ago, the use of the Internet has greatly made looking for a used car to fit your needs/tastes easier. You have access to info that many people did not have in the past, and it's pretty much "all in one place" making it easier to compare without having to go out of the way. You can even access dealer's inventories and contact them with questions without ever stepping foot into their brick -and-mortar store.
Many used car dealers also have programs in place to "certify" used cars or only to sell used cars that meet certain standards to weed out those with problems, so buying a used that has problems can be a thing of the past. Just stick with more reputable used car dealers, sure you may pay a little bit more but it might be worth the extra piece of mind knowing your "new" used car will be trouble-free. Also the quality of cars has greatly improved over the years increasing your chances of getting a good quality used car. Many used cars were former fleet vehicles, and they tend to have a consistent record of upkeep and repair, making them a good bet.Also services such as the "certified program" and Carfax have also increased buyer's chances of getting a better car than they could 've in years past.

[gasMeup]

I suggest you go for used cars. It's more practical for you. Used cars are more affordable, and in case you get into some road mishaps, you won't feel too bad about some dents and scrapes, not unlike how you would if it's a brand new car.
There are many car listing sites that can help you find the best used car fit for you. I suggest you check out Hendrickcars.com.

Good luck in your car-hunting.

[craig34]

Get a used car.