With everything going on in the world related to the pandemic, used cars seem to be more popular than ever. New vehicles are being delayed off of the production line due to a computer chip shortage, dealerships are focusing on grabbing pre-owned cars, and automotive prices seem to be climbing across the board.
For many, it might seem hopeless to find a quality used car that fits the budget. The good news is that there are still plenty of used cars out there that will fill your every need.
New Cars Are Coming Back
Car buyers everywhere are finding joy in the fact that the computer chip shortage is causing less havoc than it once did. While manufacturing hasn’t completely caught up to the need, auto manufacturers are pushing out new cars.
With more fresh models coming off of the assembly line, not all drivers have to look at used cars for their transportation needs. Pre-owned options are still in high demand, but things are starting to balance out.
Trusted Brands Never Fail
With newer used cars and certified pre-owned vehicles being in high demand, shoppers are often forced to look at older models. Not everyone is comfortable buying a used car that’s been around the block a bunch of times.
The good news is that brands like Toyota, Hyundai, and Ford build vehicles that can stand the test of time. These brands are known for building durable and reliable automobiles that are still worth their salt. That means you can explore an entire slew of used car options with confidence.
Consider an Extended Warranty
You may already be aware of the standard warranties that come with your favorite vehicles. Your local dealer may offer additional service contracts or warranties beyond the standard options. There are also extended warranties to consider that can give you peace of mind with an older model.
Ford, for example, offers four different extended plans. Each warranty comes with different perks and covers different kinds of issues. The warranty is backed by Ford, and repairs are completed by Ford-certified technicians. Hyundai also offers a potent extended warranty that comes with towing, rental car reimbursement, trip interruption coverage, and more.
Of course, there are also third-party extended warranty programs that may be worth a look. These kinds of plans may not be necessary when you find a quality used car from a trusted brand, but they help ensure you feel comfortable with your purchase.
Don’t Lose Hope: There are Options
When you’re looking to upgrade your ride, it’s critical that you don’t lose hope. Dealerships are aggressively buying pre-owned vehicles to repair and resell, so there are new options popping up every day. Even if a newer model isn’t readily available, you can still look at a quality older model from a trusted brand.
Used cars may seem like they’re hard to come by, but there are still plenty of options out there if you’re willing to look.
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