The Great Debate: Used Car vs. New Car – Which Should You Choose?

Buying a car is a significant decision that involves careful consideration of various factors. One of the most crucial decisions you’ll face is whether to buy a used car or a brand-new one. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, so in this blog post, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed choice. Once you’ve made your decision, check out our inventory of new and used cars and trucks in Augusta, GA at http://clickaroo.com

Cost Considerations

When it comes to affordability, used cars typically have the upper hand. They are generally priced lower than new cars, allowing you to get a higher-end model or a more feature-rich vehicle for the same budget. Moreover, used cars have already undergone their initial depreciation, meaning you won’t experience the same level of value loss when you drive them off the lot. On the other hand, new cars offer the benefit of manufacturer warranties, reduced maintenance costs, and potential fuel efficiency savings, which can help offset the higher initial purchase price.

Reliability and Condition

One of the concerns often associated with used cars is their reliability. While it’s true that some used cars may have a higher risk of mechanical issues, thorough inspections and vehicle history reports can mitigate this risk significantly. Opting for certified pre-owned cars (CPO) can provide additional peace of mind, as they undergo rigorous inspections and often come with extended warranties. New cars, however, offer the advantage of being untouched and come with the latest technology, safety features, and modern designs.

Customization and Technology

If you desire the latest cutting-edge technology, a new car is the way to go. Newer models often boast advanced safety features, connectivity options, infotainment systems, and improved fuel efficiency. Moreover, you’ll have the opportunity to customize the vehicle to your preferences, choosing colors, trims, and additional options. Used cars, while they may not offer the same level of customization, can still provide a range of features and technology, especially if you focus on relatively recent model years.

Depreciation and Resale Value

New cars experience their most significant depreciation during the first few years of ownership. It is estimated that a new vehicle loses around 20-30% of its value within the first year alone. On the other hand, used cars have already undergone their initial depreciation, which means they typically retain their value better over time. If you plan to keep the car for a longer duration, this may not be a significant concern. However, if you anticipate selling or trading in your vehicle within a few years, the higher resale value of a used car might be an appealing factor. At Gerald Jones Auto Group, we offer in-house financing so you can buy here, pay here.

Financing and Insurance Costs

Financing terms for used cars often have higher interest rates compared to new cars, as lenders consider them to be higher risk. However, the overall loan amount will likely be lower, reducing your monthly payments. Insurance costs can also be lower for used cars due to their lower value. New cars, while potentially offering lower interest rates and attractive financing deals, may have higher insurance premiums due to their higher value.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision between buying a used car or a new car depends on your specific needs, preferences, and financial situation. Used cars offer affordability, lower depreciation, and potentially reduced insurance costs, while new cars provide the latest features, customization options, and the assurance of being the first owner. Carefully weigh these factors, consider your budget, and prioritize your requirements to make the right choice. Remember, whether you go for a used car or a new car, maintenance, proper care, and regular servicing will ensure that your vehicle provides a reliable and enjoyable driving experience for years to come.

Visit Gerald Jones Auto Group online at clickaroo.com to view our current inventory of new, used, and Certified Pre-Owned cars in Augusta, GA. We serve Georgia, South Carolina and the Southeast! Buy here, pay here!

CUSTOMER SHOUT-OUT FOR NESS THOMAS | GERALD JONES FORD

October 2022

“Ness Thomas, our rescuer that day…left dinner on her table to return to the Ford Dealership. I told her I knew the parts I required and she said she had the parts in stock and was bringing them to me.”

Our Gerald Jones Ford team received a customer letter detailing the events of a vacation gone south. After hearing a loud bang, the customer “limped” their truck to the nearest exit off I-20 and called our Ford store. The gentleman knew the parts he needed and, though the Parts Department was closed for the evening, Ness Thomas began making calls to ensure the family could get home safely. She left her home to return to the store, gathered the parts, and delivered the items to the customer. She also reached a mechanic over the phone to confirm one of the parts installation. “She went out of her way to assist us in our time of need and we want to commend her for the amazing customer service she provided. We cannot thank you enough for rescuing us…she is THE BEST!!”

Gerald Jones Honda | Honda Council of Sales Leadership

March 2022

Gerald Jones Honda | Honda Council of Sales Leadership

We have SEVEN winners of the Honda Council of Sales Leadership! What’s this? This is a program that recognizes our top Honda team sales associates for their sales, delivery, and customer service. We are featuring a brief video on each of these team members on the Gerald Jones Auto Group Facebook page for the next 3-4 weeks. Please visit, comment, congratulate them – these team members work hard to provide excellent customer service. It’s no wonder they are our winners!

Mitchell Anderson, Master Gold

Donald Ivey, Master Gold

Lou Williams, Gold

Kendall Scruggs, Silver

Richard Byrd, Silver

Brandon Roach, Silver

Allen Baer, Silver

 

 

Heart & Sole 5k Run/Walk 2022

March 2022

Gerald Jones Auto Group | Heart & Sole 5k Run/Walk

Congratulations to Stacey Haskins Garner and the entire Heart & Sole team on an excellent run/walk this past Saturday! We are proud to sponsor this annual event, benefitting the Children’s Hospital of Georgia Heart Program.

The Children’s Hospital of Georgia is one of Gerald Jones Auto Group’s areas of focus for community support and is special to the Jones Family, so much so that Andy Jones donated an ECMO Machine to their NICU unit last month. So, we are very excited to continue our support of the Heart and Sole event, benefitting the Augusta area’s youngest patients.

Gerald Jones Subaru Teams Up With Project Linus

February 2022

Gerald Jones Subaru | Share The Love

Want to hear something that warms you? 🙂

Ieshia Bell, our Subaru Love Coordinator, organized a blanket drop-off from Project Linus to our home charity, the Augusta Dream Center. Project Linus’s Augusta Chapter is a group of volunteers (or Blanketeers) lead by Christine Newby, here in Augusta GA. This group creates gorgeous blankets; some interactive, like a castle blanket kids can play with, and donates them to places like the Augusta Dream Center to provide comfort to those in need. It’s only February and this organization has donated over 1,000 blankets this year! If you or a friend enjoy crocheting, quilting, or knitting, you need to check out Project Linus – the Augusta GA Chapter on Facebook. This is a really fun group with a really big heart.

Andy and Connie Jones Donate $350,000 to the Children’s Hospital of Georgia

January 2022

Anthony Jones and Connie Kelly Jones support the Children’s Hospital of Georgia by giving $350,000 to purchase a pediatric ECMO machine.

“I know intuitively that the care and quality of the people we have at Children’s Hospital is second to none. If one of my children was sick, that’s where I’d take them. No question,” said Jones, owner of the Gerald Jones Auto Group and past chairman of the Children’s Hospital of Georgia Philanthropy Board.

https://news.augustahealth.org/…/andy-and-connie-jones…/

Update | Radiothon Raises over $294,000 for the Children’s Hospital of Georgia

December 2021

Children’s Hospital of Georgia | December 2nd – 4th

Thanks to everyone who joined us for this year’s radiothon supporting the Children’s Hospital of Georgia. People called in and became Miracle Makers, pledging donations to fund programs like Child Life and camps, and purchasing equipment such as baby beds for the NICU. We raised over $294,000!!! It’s been their best year yet; they think that our summer promotion of the Hospital really helped.

Ringing the Bells for The Salvation Army of Augusta

November 2021

The Salvation Army of Augusta | December 1st – 6th

We are getting ready to ring the Red Kettle Bells for The Salvation Army of Augusta at the Kroger on Columbia Road. This is an annual tradition for Gerald Jones Auto Group where team members go on company time to ring the bells and raise money for our local Salvation Army.

We’ll be out there beginning December 1st – December 6th. Please stop by to visit our team and make a donation!

Subaru Loves Pets

October 2021

Gerald Jones Subaru

Our Subaru Love Promise Coordinator, Ieshia Bell, has something really special in store for October. Come into our Subaru showroom with your fur baby and take a picture to receive a FREE Chewbaru (we also have “Outbarks”)! Use the hashtag #geraldjonessubarulovespets, #gjslovespets and tag us on social media and we will be sure to feature your on our page!

ALSO

Gerald Jones Subaru is donating $100 to the Columbia County Animal Shelter for every pet that is adopted in the month of October; plus, $10 for every pet purchase made through our parts department. 

Coming in November…

Buy or lease a new Subaru between November 18 – January 3 and Subaru of America will donate $250 to charity. Our hometown charities are SUCESSTEAM, a local charity that provides mentorship and guidance to aspiring youth, and The Augusta Dream Center, an organization that provides immediate relief to areas of poverty in the CSRA. Our local Subaru store also matches each donation with a local $50 donation from our store. Additionally, for every routine Subaru vehicle service, Subaru will donate $5 to our hometown charities.