| Since new cars suffer high rates of depreciation in the | | | | to original cost. |
| first year, it is generally better to buy a relatively new | | | | - Safety equipment is up to date, and comparable to |
| car (at least one year old) that has already | | | | new cars. |
| experienced its greatest loss in value. | | | | - Less risk of hidden problems than with an older car. |
| Almost-new used cars represent the best values for | | | | - Many almost-new used cars are lease returns that |
| automotive consumers and offer most of the benefits | | | | have been well maintained and cared for. |
| of new-car ownership at lower cost. Here are some | | | | - Many used car dealers certify almost-new used cars |
| of those benefits: | | | | with comprehensive inspections and guarantees. |
| - Manufacturer's warranty is still in effect. Most new | | | | - Leases are readily available for almost-new used |
| cars have 36 month general warranties, many have | | | | cars, but not for older models. |
| 48 months, and a few have 60 months -- all | | | | Careful selection of vehicle make and model can save |
| transferable to new owners. | | | | you money in the long term. Those brands that have |
| - Manufacturer's new-car rebates and low-interest | | | | traditionally maintained high resale values, such as |
| loans, which are very common, drive the price of used | | | | Honda, BMW, and Lexus, will be your best choice. A |
| cars down. Almost-new used cars are currently | | | | relatively low initial purchase price combined with a |
| undervalued for this reason. | | | | relatively high sale or trade price a few years later will |
| - Optional equipment and packages on almost-new | | | | help to minimize your overall ownership cost. |
| used cars are generally greatly undervalued, compared | | | | |