The smell of a new car can be enticing, but sticker shock is very real, and that’s why so many customers are discovering the benefits of shopping off the used lot. Used cars, trucks, and SUVs are not only more affordable, but the volume of used cars in the current market gives you more options to choose from since you aren’t limited to the automaker’s current lineup. For example, the used inventory at our DePaula Auto Group dealerships includes every model imaginable. You’ll find decade-old, budget-friendly sedans like the Chevrolet Malibu alongside newer road warriors like the Ford Explorer that offers the latest tech at a fraction of the price.
So, what will you drive home? DePaula Auto Group is here to help you answer that question with an inventory designed to meet every driving need. It’s part of our pre-owned promise to create a shopper’s paradise that engineers confidence in your purchase and every mile ahead.
Do you know what it means when something depreciates? It’s the process of losing value or worth which affects every new vehicle. For example, a new model loses up to 11% of its value as soon as you leave the lot, which means you’ve already overpaid for the car, truck, or SUV before getting it home. Over the next five years, your new vehicle will lose up to 60% in value, which puts you in a risky financial situation if you’ve signed a long-term loan. This could leave you owing more on the loan than what the vehicle is worth.
Buying a used vehicle is an excellent way to let your money work harder for you. Used cars have typically experienced the highest rate of depreciation once they arrive in our inventory. Because of this, you’re paying closer to the actual price of the vehicle rather than the inflated new car sticker price. In addition, you’ll also find that your money goes a lot further on the used lot and can get you behind the wheel of a top-tier trim with every feature and luxury without going over budget.
Shopping for a used car, truck, or SUV gives you plenty of options, especially when it’s time to make your purchase. These options include buying from a private seller or a dealership. So, what’s the better choice that will save you valuable time and money?
Working with a dealership like DePaula Mazda, DePaula Chevrolet, or DePaula Ford is the best and safest option because it gives you access to our vast experience and expertise. Unlike private sellers, we sell vehicles every day and know the ins and outs of the process. We’ve put in the extra hours to price our inventory fairly and competitively so that you’re getting the best deal, whereas a private seller is usually only concerned with how much they can make from the sale.
Shopping with a dealership also minimizes risk. For years, buying a used vehicle was inherently risky because you didn’t know what you were getting. For example, you didn’t know if the car was properly maintained or if it had a history of accident involvement. Today, dealerships like ours are mitigating that risk by providing comprehensive vehicle history reports on every vehicle. These reports give you insight into the vehicle’s ownership and maintenance history, title issues, and accident involvement.
Shopping for a used model can be overwhelming, especially since you have so many options. However, taking inventory of your must-haves in your next vehicle and determining your budget are simple ways to narrow your search. For example, are you looking for a used Mazda like the MX-5 Miata with low mileage and the latest safety features, or are you thrilled to find an older SUV like the Ford Explorer or a sedan like the Chevy Malibu that’s better suited to your budget?
As you narrow your search, ask for the vehicle history report and take a few test drives to get a feel for the vehicle and how it handles. Then, get the VIN or vehicle identification number to use on sites like Kelley Blue Book or Consumer Reports to determine its value and read reviews. Once you have this information, you know what to look for in the model and can work with the dealer to finalize the sale.
DePaula Auto Group is a family of dealerships renowned for our extensive inventory of used vehicles and our unique approach to the car-buying and owning process. Every one of our dealerships––DePaula Mazda, DePaula Ford, and DePaula Chevrolet––operate on transparency, integrity, and respect. These values lay the foundation of who we are and ensure you get the same treatment at every dealership, whether you’re working with our sales and finance teams or relying on the expertise of our service department.
Beyond our unique approach, our extensive used inventory guarantees your next vehicle is within reach. Our friendly and knowledgeable sales team will help you narrow your options and guide you through each step of the process, ensuring you know what you’re paying and what you’re getting before the sale is final. Why? Because shopping with us means joining the DePaula family and investing in a team that’s committed to your future on the road.