The used car market has experienced steady growth in recent years, driven by strong demand, a diverse supply, and significant economic and ecological considerations. In a context where purchasing a new vehicle is becoming increasingly expensive, and where consumers are looking to make more sustainable choices, buying used emerges as a pragmatic, cost-effective, and relevant alternative. So, why turn to a second-hand car?
The primary argument in favor of the used car market is obviously the price. A used car costs on average 30 to 50% less than the same new model.
This rapid depreciation, which begins as soon as you leave the dealership, allows buyers to benefit from an excellent value for money. A vehicle that is two or three years old may indeed have low mileage, still be under manufacturer's warranty, and offer modern features for a much lower price.
The savings don't stop there. Additional costs such as registration fees, insurance, and even taxes (such as the ecological penalty) are often lower for a used vehicle. By reducing the initial budget, the buyer may also afford to aim for a higher-end model, better equipped, more spacious, or more powerful than what they could have obtained new with the same budget.
In a context of inflation and rising interest rates, buying a used car also helps to limit the need for auto loans or to borrow over a shorter period.
Are you looking for a premium used vehicle? The online dealer BYmyCAR and its experts specialized in second-hand cars offer numerous prestigious models at reduced prices. Discover, for example, the used Audi Q3 available on the BYmyCAR website, featuring sporty aesthetics, powerful performance, and unparalleled interior comfort.
Another advantage of the used car market is the diversity of options available. You can find all types of vehicles (compact cars, SUVs, station wagons, vans, sports cars, hybrids, electric cars, 4x4s, etc.) from all brands, with all kinds of engines and finishes.
Models that are no longer produced new can still be found used, sometimes in very well-maintained versions. Note that you also have immediate access to these vehicles, without having to wait for the sometimes very long delivery times of new vehicles (which can reach 3 to 6 months, or even more in case of a shortage of electronic components).
Thus, the used car market meets urgent mobility needs while offering a much wider range of choices, both in terms of model and technical specifications and price.
The popularization of online sales platforms and geolocated search tools even allows you to expand your criteria on a national or even international scale, increasing your chances of finding the ideal vehicle.
One of the major differences between new and used lies in the rate of depreciation. A new vehicle can lose up to 20% of its value in the first year, and up to 50% after three years, even if it is barely used. In contrast, a used car, having already undergone this initial depreciation, loses value much more slowly.
When it comes time to resell, the financial loss is much lower. Some models known for their reliability, durability, or rarity may even maintain a stable value for several years.
Buying a used vehicle is therefore a more reasoned choice in terms of investment, avoiding significant losses over the medium term. This better residual value is a considerable advantage for those who like to change vehicles regularly without losing too much money.
Choosing a used car is also an environmentally friendly act. The manufacturing of a new vehicle indeed involves significant energy and raw materials consumption (steel, aluminum, plastic, rare earths, etc.). The production cycle of a car also generates a large amount of CO2 even before it has driven a single kilometer.
By extending the lifespan of an already produced vehicle, you help reduce the demand for new productions and limit the overall carbon footprint of the automotive sector. This circular economy approach is all the more relevant as today, many used models already meet strict environmental standards (Euro 5, Euro 6) and are equipped with technologies that reduce emissions and fuel consumption.
Furthermore, environmentally conscious buyers can also opt for used hybrid or electric models, which are increasingly accessible due to falling prices and a diversifying market.
Contrary to popular belief, buying a used car is not necessarily risky. Many automotive professionals (dealerships, authorized garages, specialized platforms) offer revised, inspected, and warranted vehicles from 3 to 24 months. Some brands even go as far as offering warranty extensions, trade-in services, or the possibility of a refund under certain conditions.
Moreover, you benefit from the legal warranty of conformity when purchasing from a professional, and you have a right to recourse in case of hidden defects, including between individuals (even if the procedure is more complex). The proliferation of vehicle history reports (e.g., Histovec in France), detailed technical inspections, and digital diagnostic tools now allow you to verify the history and actual condition of the vehicle.
Buying a used car has thus become a regulated and secure act, provided that you do your homework and follow the right steps (verification, test drive, expertise, diagnostics, etc.).
The used cars available on the market today often date back less than 5 or 6 years, which means they already come with a majority of modern technological innovations (touch screens, GPS, Bluetooth, backup cameras, automatic braking, adaptive cruise control, fatigue sensors, smartphone connectivity, etc.).
Even on older models, comfort features are often present, including automatic climate control, cruise control, heated seats, as well as rain and light sensors. In short, it is entirely possible to acquire a well-equipped and comfortable car for a reasonable budget. This accessibility to premium features is one of the great advantages of buying used over new, where each option adds significantly to the cost.
The second-hand market is particularly well-suited for young drivers. These individuals, often on a tight budget, would do well to choose an affordable, reliable vehicle that is inexpensive to insure. Insurance premiums for novice drivers are especially high, and it's advisable to opt for a used model with low power and a good reliability reputation. Many parents decide to give their children a well-maintained used car, both for economic reasons and to alleviate worries about the inevitable minor mishaps in the first few years of driving. The market thus provides a gentle introduction to the world of automobiles, with less pressure and more freedom.
Today, it is finally possible to finance the purchase of a used car through an auto loan, lease-purchase agreement (LOA), or leasing, depending on your needs. These options, once reserved for new vehicles, are now offered by many dealerships and credit institutions for used purchases. This allows you to spread the cost over time without tying up all your savings.
Keep in mind that many professional sellers accept trade-ins of your old vehicle, thus reducing the necessary down payment. This flexibility greatly facilitates the purchase of a new used vehicle, especially if you want to quickly change models without worrying about resale.
The used car market today represents much more than just an economic compromise. It is a rational, ecological, and strategic choice, which allows access to high-performance vehicles that are well-equipped, immediately available, and often better suited to your actual needs. Whether you are looking for a reliable vehicle for commuting, a spacious family car, or a used hybrid model, you will find what you are looking for in this rapidly changing market.
Author Audrey on 02 January 2024
Trade and Society : Services
Author Audrey on 22 March 2023
Trade and Society : Industry