When buying a used car, it is essential to identify your exact needs and assess whether the vehicle can meet them over time. The head of the Union of Car Market Professionals emphasizes clarity about your practical requirements, noting that every car offers certain advantages and that buyers should honestly ask themselves if they can handle repairs as needed.
If a buyer focuses on saving money during a breakdown rather than planning ahead, that approach can lead to an unnecessary purchase. Spare parts for many premium models are currently expensive, so total ownership costs should be weighed carefully against upfront savings.
Note: practical guidance comes from reputable automotive professionals and industry bodies to help buyers make informed choices in today’s market.
The expert warns against selecting first-year Chinese vehicles, pointing to thinner metal and faster rust development, while also noting concerns with some early Japanese Toyotas and certain Russian Ladas equipped with automated or robotized gear systems.
Additionally, buying a car saturated with electronics can complicate maintenance. German cars, for example, frequently feature advanced electronic systems that may require frequent repairs. A simpler electrical setup often means easier and more affordable upkeep.
Historically, until around 2008, European and Japanese cars were built to endure, offering solid performance in both technical components and bodywork. Since then, some manufacturers have implemented cost-saving measures that can affect reliability. This history is important to consider when evaluating a used vehicle for purchase.
- “Drive” can be read in trade publications and industry updates