Ready to purchase that car or truck that you have had your eye on for months? What shall it be, new or used? That is the ten thousand dollar question.
A new car or truck is nice, but it will depreciate dramatically overnight.
Drive it home and start her up the next morning and you just lost thousands of dollars.
What is depreciation? Simply stated, it is the value of an asset that is lost over time.
Current data shows that you will lose 20% to 25% in depreciation, and that is just during the first year of ownership.
The price of a stripped down new car is thousands more than a fully loaded used (or pre-owned as they are now called) vehicle of the same model.
You can expect to save thousand dollars or more by very carefully selecting to buy a used car or truck.
When evaluated properly, a used car or truck can provide transportation that will last a long time.
Consider the Following When Buying a Used Car

1. The previous owner will absorb most of the depreciation.
   
2. Insurance premiums will be less expensive.
   
3. Used cars are more reliable vehicles than in the past.
   
4. Many are still covered by the original manufacturer's warranty.
   
5. Manufacturer or dealer certified used cars are available with extended warranties.
   
6. VIN number allows you trace the history of the vehicle.
   
7. Private sellers/owners can make the process easier and less stressful.
   

Where Should I Buy My Used Car?

• New Car Dealerships will have the newer model used cars available still under the original manufacturer's warranty and certified used or pre-owned vehicles with extended warranties available.
  
• Private owners will normally have cars that are slightly older in age but that, in most cases, have been well-maintained and have lower mileage than those available on commercial lots.
  
• Used Car Dealers will have the older, higher mileage vehicles that require extreme scrutinizing and the opinion of a mechanic you can trust.
  Be wary of "Buy Here, Pay Here" establishments.
  

The answer to the $10,000 question when buying a vehicle is simple.
Purchasing a carefully selected used car or truck can literally save you thousands of dollars as opposed to buying a new car.
When considering depreciation, insurance savings and the total of monthly payments, a used car or truck will keep money in your pocket.
Original manufactures' warranties, certified pre-owned vehicles with extended warranties and low mileage make buying a used car or truck more attractive than ever.