Used Cars For Sale in Calgary, AB (2024)

FAQs

How old of a used car is the best deal? ›

The “sweet spot” for purchasing a used car is between 2 to 5 years old. This is the age range where the car has already gone through the steepest part of its depreciation curve, but it's still relatively new and in good condition.

Cars over 10 years old can still be reliable. Most vehicles can last well over a decade with proper care and maintenance. In fact, the average car on U.S. roads is now 12.5 years old, according to a study from S&P Global Mobility. Furthermore, a car doesn't really stop depreciating until it hits that 10-year mark.

There's no rule to how many miles on a used car is too much, but by attempting to stick to the 12,000 miles per year rule is a great place to start. Find out how old the car is, multiple the number of years by 12,000, and if the number on the odometer is significantly higher than that, some concern might be warranted.

As we dissect the list, certain brands emerge as heavyweights in the American used car market. Ford, Chevrolet, and Toyota consistently dominate the rankings, highlighting their enduring popularity and trust among American drivers.

Cars.com is our top pick for selling a used car online. The company sets itself apart from other sites by offering a private sale option. Edmunds leads the way for buying a used car online since it makes it easy for consumers to research, buy, sell and appraise used cars.

What are the disadvantages of buying a used car from the dealer? ›

Start saving ASAP and consider using cash for the purchase

That's because the more you can pay up front in cash for that first car, the smaller your monthly payments will be. Don't use all your savings, though — remember you need a cushion for some emergencies or unexpected expenses that may come up!

If your goal is to save on a pre-owned vehicle, it's advisable to seek one that has already undergone most of its depreciation. This entails finding a car that is at least two years old, but ideally between three and four years old.

In reality, there is no concrete answer for this – it all depends on the car. A well-maintained 10-year-old car could possibly be a better investment than a newer model which hasn't been looked after. As a very general rule of thumb, a car is usually reliable up to 5 years providing it has been maintained.

Additionally, maintenance costs can quickly add up as cars age. Parts are harder to find, and labor is more time-intensive. If these concerns make you uneasy, avoid cars over 20 years old. This rule of thumb may help ensure your vehicle choice is still safe, reliable, and affordable.

We suggest you consider a 4- to 6-year-old vehicle with less than 50,000 miles. But it's essential to consider how an owner drove the car, whether city, highway, or a mix of miles, and how well the driver cared for the car. It is also important to be wary of used cars with unusually low mileage.