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More and more people are realizing that the cost of new transportation can really throw a budget into reverse.
Since dependable transportation is a necessity--do not despair; a two to four-year old used vehicle can be purchased at a savings of 25 to 50 percent as compared to its cost when new. Additionally, the number of well-built, dependable vehicles has increased during the past decade.
When well maintained these vehicles can be driven for many miles, and they are now available at substantial savings.
The purchase of a dependable, reasonably priced used vehicle is not a matter of chance or luck, but rather, it is a matter of knowledge and understanding.
Gathering Information:
Literally hundreds of different vehicles are available, but which one is the best for you? To better determine the vehicle that satisfies your transportation needs, first take the time to carefully identify your current and future driving needs, then become aware of the many available vehicles, and finally, zero in on the vehicles that best meet your needs.
Some questions to consider about transportation needs include:
After determining the type of automobile, sport-utility vehicle, or minivan that satisfies your needs, it is worthwhile to consult "Consumer Reports'" frequency-of-repair information to identify specific vehicles that will likely have fewer future repairs.
Web discussion groups are also a good source of "from the street" information for identifying the strengths and weaknesses of specific vehicles.
In addition to becoming informed about particular vehicles, it is worthwhile to learn the approximate prices for vehicles of interest. To obtain a general idea of vehicle prices, consult the current monthly edition of the "N.A.D.A. Official Used Car Guide" at a public library, bank, or automobile dealership.
Vehicle price information can also be obtained by consulting the vehicle classified sections of major newspapers at a public library. This is a convenient way to get a read on future prices, because vehicle price trends usually begin in major cities and then progress to other areas of the country.
About The Author: Kyle Busch is the author of "Drive the Best for the Price: How to Buy a Used Automobile, Sport-Utility Vehicle, or Minivan and Save Money." The book can be ordered from Barnes and Noble or Borders. To learn more about the author and the book visit: www.drivethebestbook.com. The web site accepts your transportation questions.
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