Family cars are helpful machines. They can carry many people, lots of luggage, and ensure the entire family can go from one place to another. If your family is expanding or your car is getting older, it’s natural to want a second family vehicle.
Before purchasing a second family car, there are a couple of additional costs. I’ve listed the most critical to prevent surprises if you buy a new vehicle for your family.
1. Depreciation Over Time
Cars depreciate over time. A car can lose up to 20% of its value in the first year and even more in the periods after that. Depreciation means you may not be able to sell your current car or that the vehicle you buy now won’t be worth it in a few years. Used cars are different from new cars in their depreciation levels.
If you don’t want to deal with depreciation and loss of value over the years, do your research. There are a rare few cars on the market that increase in value as time goes on. Although it’s trickier to find family cars with this value, it’s possible.
2. Maintenance
Every car needs maintenance. If you invest in a family car, it’s critical to be ready for the possibility of repairs and fixes as the years continue. Purchasing a larger car also means there’s an increased risk of critical components falling apart with time and enough miles on the engine.
Car maintenance, on average, costs close to $800. The bigger and rarer the vehicle, the more you will need to pay for fixes on your second family car. If you can afford the vehicle but aren’t sure about maintenance costs, it’s better to invest too high rather than too low. Repairs will cost a decent sum of your bank account.
3. Gas and Mileage
Gas and mileage are other items to consider before purchasing a second family car. Does the vehicle have good mileage? What type of fuel does it take? The worse the gas mileage, the more you will spend on fuel to go from one place to another. The best cars with gas mileage can take you wherever you need to go.
Consider mileage before buying. Is it worth it to save that much on a vehicle that requires stops at gas stations more often than pricier vehicles? Determine how often you drive, where you go, and the ideal mileage and price point for gas in your car.
4. Car Insurance Costs – Even in Cheaper States Like Ohio
Car insurance is necessary for most states except for Virginia and New Hampshire. Although car insurance in Ohio tends to be cheaper, as with several states, it will still take a chunk from your savings.
It’s critical to examine the car insurance costs in your state before committing to a new family car. The higher the rates, the less likely the investment will be worth it for you and your loved ones.
5. Financing Needs
Finally, consider financing needs. How much do you require to purchase that vehicle? It’s critical to determine the necessary loans and the requirements if you want a car.
If you can’t get a loan, it’s time to build your credit score. Practice self-discipline if you want to save enough money to purchase a second family car. If you randomly buy things you don’t need, that family car will drift further and further away.
Financing needs are one of the most critical parts of the puzzle when considering a second family car. Without a stable income of money, there is no way you should purchase one for your loved one.