Buying a used German car
Buying a used German car is certainly more affordable than buying a brand new one. However, there are some things to consider.
- Leasing your German car can significantly lower your monthly payment, because of the lower interest rate. For example, I saved over $300 by leasing for 36 months instead of purchasing. I still have the option to purchase the car at the end of the lease, but in the mean time I am saving a good amount of money.
- The lease amount may be close to the amount that you would be spending on a used car purchase, depending on how old the car is you purchase. So, in some cases, it is cheaper and smarter to lease a car instead of buying a “good deal” off of someone on the street or from a used car dealer.
- Leased cars come with a warranty, most used cars don’t. Even if you get a warranty, it may not cover much. You need to ask questions to make sure that major issues will be fixed.
- Always ask for a pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic that knows about German cars. You never know when you will be buying a lemon!
- Make sure you can afford the repairs and maintenance. German car repair isn’t cheap. Parts for BMW, MBZ, Audi, Mini Cooper, Porsche and VW are quite expensive. Labor cost more too, because repairing a German car takes a lot more time, effort and skill than domestic or Asian car repairs.
We get a lot of customers who buy a BMW, Mercedes, or Audi and didn’t do an inspection before buying the car. Often people sell their cars because they don’t have the money to repair the issues. Find out why the seller is selling the car and have the car inspected. Be prepared to walk away if the car has issues that are too expensive to fix, unless you are fully aware and are willing to pay the repairs.
Research maintenance costs before you buy. Maintenance services are much more expensive than domestic or Asian cars. You must keep up on the maintenance, otherwise you will face even more expensive repairs later.
Do your research. Look up reviews for the car you are planning on buying. Listen to the facts not to your hear. Yes, German cars are good looking, but make sure you make a smart purchase, so you can enjoy your ride!
