Going used car shopping? Here's the buying ‘sweet spot' for age and value
- Used car shoppers in Chula Vista and across San Diego County are weighing price, age and mileage as they search for a reliable vehicle.
- Kelley Blue Book managing editor Sean Tucker says cars now last longer, so buyers on tighter budgets can safely consider vehicles older than the old six- or seven-year rule of thumb.
- He places the sweet spot for an affordable, reliable used car between 7 and 13 years old, though a pandemic-era gap in factory production has made 3- to 4-year-old used cars scarcer and pricier.
- Buyers should also check mileage, maintenance history and get an independent inspection before purchase.
Reported by
NBC 7 San Diego
nbcsandiego.com
San Diego County, CA