Buying your first car is an exciting milestone, but it can also be a daunting task, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Fortunately, buying a used cheap car can be a great option for those who want to save money while still enjoying the benefits of owning a car. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what used cheap car you should buy as your first car and how to take care of it so it doesn’t break down. We’ll also provide some New Zealand-specific data and statistics to support our ideas.
What Used Cheap Car Should You Buy as Your First Car?
When it comes to buying a used cheap car, reliability should be your top priority. After all, you don’t want to end up with a car that breaks down constantly and costs you more in repairs than you paid for it. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a used cheap car:
Brand and Model: Look for cars from reliable brands that are known for their durability and low maintenance costs. Popular models like the Toyota Corolla, Mazda Axela, and Suzuki Swift are all great options that have a proven track record of reliability.
Age and Mileage: While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest car you can find, keep in mind that older cars with high mileage are more likely to break down and require costly repairs. Look for cars that are less than 10 years old and have less than 150,000 kilometers on the odometer.
Safety Features: Safety should also be a priority when choosing a used cheap car. Look for cars with features like airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control, which can help prevent accidents and protect you in the event of a collision.
New Zealand-Specific Data and Statistics: According to Trade Me, the most popular used cars in New Zealand are the Toyota Corolla, Mazda Axela, and Suzuki Swift. The average age of cars on New Zealand roads is 14.1 years, highlighting the importance of choosing a reliable car. The New Zealand Transport Agency provides safety ratings for popular cars in New Zealand, based on crash tests and other factors.
How to Take Care of Your Used Cheap Car
Buying a reliable car is only the first step. To ensure that your car lasts as long as possible and doesn’t break down, you’ll need to take good care of it. Here are some tips to help you maintain your used cheap car:
Follow the Maintenance Schedule: Your car’s owner’s manual will provide a maintenance schedule that outlines when you should get your car serviced and what needs to be done. Follow this schedule to ensure that your car is running at its best.
Regularly Check Fluids and Tire Pressure: Keeping your car’s fluids (oil, coolant, brake fluid, etc.) topped up and ensuring that your tires are properly inflated can help prevent damage and extend the life of your car.
Drive Conservatively: Aggressive driving (accelerating quickly, hard braking, etc.) can put extra strain on your car’s engine and other components, leading to more wear and tear. Drive conservatively to reduce wear and extend the life of your car.
New Zealand-Specific Data and Statistics: According to a 2020 report by Consumer NZ, the average cost of car repairs in New Zealand is $1,200. The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) provides fuel efficiency ratings for popular cars in New Zealand, which can help car buyers choose a car that will save them money on fuel costs in the long run.
To Sum Up:
Buying a used cheap car can be a great way to save money while still enjoying the benefits of car ownership. When choosing a used cheap car, prioritise reliability, safety, and age/mileage. Once you’ve purchased your car, follow the maintenance schedule regularly.