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New or used?

When buying a car, the first step is always a decision: Is it better to buy a new or a used car?

For some people, it is important to be able to choose every feature of their vehicle. Given the over-abundance of used, recent-model vehicles, the increasing reliability and durability of automobiles and the warranties available, buying a used car is less risky than it was in the past.

Below is a table that will help you compare certain aspects of new and used cars. To make an enlightened decision, consider how important each of these elements is in relation to your needs and your budget.

	New car	Used car
Price	Few choices under $10,000	For less than half the price of a new car, you can buy a used car with more options than a smaller new car with no options or accessories
Depreciation	Rapidly over the first 2 or 3 years	After 2 or 3 years, the original owner has absorbed much of the depreciation
Maintenance and repairs	No maintenance before several thousand kilometres of driving Some manufacturers cover the cost of oil changes and tune-ups The tires, battery, exhaust system and brakes will not need to be replaced for the first few years	Hard to know for sure how the car has been driven or maintained May require maintenance or costly repairs Not always covered by a warranty
Warranty	Basic warranty of at least 3 years or 60,000 km Does not cover normal-usage maintenance such as brake pads or clutch Some manufacturers offer extended or supplemental warranties	The original manufacturer's warranty can be transferred to the car's second owner, usually with no fee It is possible to go to an authorized dealer to buy a certified used vehicle that is still covered by the original warranty, and then extend the warranty
Roadside assistance	Free access in most cases as long as the vehicle is still under warranty Some manufacturers will reimburse the charges incurred during a breakdown or make a replacement vehicle available	Generally not available