Why Buy Used?
Automotive Buyer’s Guide
Why Buying a Used Vehicle Is One of the Smartest Money Moves You Can Make
An expert look from the team at Stivers of Troy at the financial, practical, and even environmental advantages of choosing pre-owned over new.
Value lost the moment a new car drives off the lot
Depreciation absorbed by the original owner in 5 years
Average monthly insurance & payment savings vs. new
Miles modern vehicles routinely deliver with care
The Case for Pre-Owned
At Stivers of Troy, our team has spent years evaluating vehicles on dealer lots, in service bays, and at auctions. We can tell you the conventional wisdom — “always buy new for peace of mind” — is outdated. Today’s used-car market offers vehicles that are mechanically sound, technologically modern, and dramatically more affordable than their showroom counterparts. For the vast majority of buyers, a well-chosen used vehicle is the better decision.
Here’s why — and how the pre-owned experts at Stivers of Troy can help you find the right one.
Seven Reasons Used Wins
You Skip the Depreciation Cliff
A new vehicle loses roughly 20% of its value in the first year and around 60% in five years. Buying a 2- to 4-year-old vehicle lets the original owner absorb that loss for you.
Lower Monthly Payments
A smaller loan principal means smaller payments — and shorter loan terms. You build equity faster and avoid being “underwater” on financing.
Cheaper Insurance
Insurance premiums are tied to vehicle value. A used car with the same safety features can cost hundreds less per year to insure than its brand-new equivalent.
Lower Registration & Taxes
Many states calculate sales tax and annual registration fees based on a vehicle’s value. Used = less tax, less fee, more money in your pocket.
More Car for Your Money
The budget that buys a base-model new sedan can buy a gently used luxury vehicle with leather, premium audio, and advanced driver-assistance features.
Proven Reliability
A used model has a track record. You can research recalls, common issues, and long-term ownership reviews — information no first-year buyer has access to.
It’s Greener
Manufacturing a new vehicle generates significant carbon emissions. Extending the life of an existing car is one of the most overlooked sustainable choices a driver can make.
Used vs. New: Side by Side
| Factor | New Vehicle | Used Vehicle |
|---|---|---|
| First-Year Depreciation | ~20% loss | Already absorbed |
| Average Loan Amount | Higher | Lower |
| Insurance Premiums | Higher | Significantly lower |
| Reliability Data Available | Limited | Years of real-world data |
| Manufacturer Warranty | Full | Often partial or CPO-extended |
| Negotiation Flexibility | Limited (MSRP-driven) | High |
| Total 5-Year Cost of Ownership | Highest | Substantially lower |
Consider a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Vehicle
If the idea of buying used still makes you uneasy, a Certified Pre-Owned vehicle bridges the gap. CPO programs typically include a multi-point inspection, reconditioning, an extended warranty, and roadside assistance — all on a vehicle that has already taken its biggest depreciation hit.
The Stivers of Troy Pre-Owned Advantage
Every pre-owned vehicle on the Stivers of Troy lot is hand-selected, reconditioned by factory-trained technicians, and backed by a thorough multi-point inspection. From economy commuters to certified luxury models, our pre-owned inventory is built to give you new-car peace of mind at a used-car price.
Some Items We Check Before You Buy
- Pull the vehicle history report (Carfax, AutoCheck) — verify ownership, accidents, and title status.
- Have an expert mechanic perform a pre-purchase, multi-point inspection and perform repairs.
- Check for open recalls using the VIN on the NHTSA website.
- Test drive on highway and city streets, with the radio off, listening for unusual noises.
- Inspect tires for even wear — uneven wear can indicate alignment or suspension issues.
- Confirm all electronics, infotainment, and climate controls function properly.
- Review service records — a well-maintained higher-mileage car often beats a neglected low-mileage one.
The Bottom Line
Buying used isn’t a compromise — it’s a strategy. Modern vehicles are built to last well past 200,000 miles when properly maintained. By letting someone else pay for the showroom shine, you redirect thousands of dollars toward what really matters: a reliable car, lower bills, and financial flexibility. Whether it’s your first vehicle or your fifth, buying smart almost always means buying used — and the team at Stivers of Troy is ready to help you do exactly that.
Ready to Find Your Next Vehicle?
Visit Stivers of Troy and browse our hand-picked pre-owned inventory. Our no-pressure team will help you compare options, run the numbers, and drive home in a vehicle you’ll love — for a price that makes sense.