Should You Buy Used or New?

The car buying process has several important checkpoints. What vehicle do you want to purchase? Is one. Another major question you need to ask is, “How much do I want to spend?” That question inevitably leads to the next: “Should I buy new or used?”

What are the benefits of buying new vs. used? Why should you buy one over the other? These are questions we’ll explore below, to help you get a better idea of whether new or used is the right choice for you.

If you’d like additional help in deciding which way to go, stop by BMW of Columbia to meet with our knowledgeable sales team and find out more about the pros and cons of buying a used car vs new. We’ll show you what you can expect going down both paths so you can make a more informed decision.

The Pros of Buying New

First, let’s dive into the pros (and cons) of buying a new vehicle. The first and most obvious pro is that you’re buying the latest model. Not only is the vehicle completely new, but you’re getting the latest tech, performance, and safety features available.
Whether you’re interested in that heads-up display, specific driver-assist safety and convenience features, or a more powerful engine, you’re assured to get the best by purchasing the newest model.

Plus, another big benefit is that you get to take advantage of new vehicle warranties. Typically, the warranty on a new car lasts for 6-12 months and covers virtually any maintenance you might need. That not only guarantees that if you run into an issue with your vehicle you’ll be covered, but also helps save money on any general maintenance needed during that time. Of course, you can get the same thing by buying a Certified Pre-Owned BMW, but we’ll talk more about that later.

The Pros of Buying Used

As opposed to buying new, the pros of buying used cars are a little less clear. Most know that you save money buying used, but don’t know just how much. Vehicles depreciate in value quickly, so even buying the previous year’s model can often save you thousands of dollars.

“But then I’m missing out on the newest tech and other features,” you might say. The way carmakers work, however, is that a single model typically has a “run” of several years. What that means is a particular model will be virtually the same, with only minor improvements, for as many as three to fours years in a row. After that, the model will receive a full upgrade, often with a re-envisioned exterior and significant updates. Because of this, buying the previous year’s model means you’re not missing out on much if anything.

Arguably the biggest con of purchasing used was once the fact that the vehicle isn’t in perfect condition. However, even that can be circumvented now with programs like BMW’s Certified Pre-Owned.

The Added Pros of Buying a Certified Pre-Owned BMW

By purchasing a Certified Pre-Owned BMW, you’re getting a like-new BMW at a reduced price, effectively getting the best of both worlds.

Certified Pre-Owned BMWs undergo a comprehensive selection and verification process, including multiple tests that verify the vehicle is up to like-new BMW standards. The vehicle can have no more than 60,000 miles on the odometer, and you’re backed by both a 6-year or 100,000-mile warranty and BMW Roadside Assistance 365-days a year.

New vs. Certified Pre-Owned: Which Is Better?

Nowadays, buying used isn’t the same. Whether you choose to purchase a new or Certified Pre-Owned BMW, you can rest assured that you’re getting the best BMW has to offer, along with a powerful warranty and BMW Roadside Assistance.

To find out more about the BMW Certified Pre-Owned program, visit BMW of Columbia. Our knowledgeable sales and finance teams will help you every step of the way in finding your perfect BMW and a financing option that fits your budget. Drop-in for a test drive today.