Most of us have at least one dream car and, for many, it`s a model from one of the most acclaimed and sought-after luxury brands in the history of cars. Despite the class-leading features, impressive designs, powerful engines and next-generation technologies present in almost every used Mercedes-Benz, you can pick one up for a reasonable price.
Your local used car market is bound to have a few Mercedes-Benz models from the late 2000s or earlier that can be bought for as little as an entry-level hatchback. In doing so, you`ll be letting someone else take the depreciation hit that comes with driving a new car off the lot, while still enjoying a fine piece of German engineering.
However, as with buying any used car, there are some things you should keep in mind when investing in your first Mercedes-Benz.
Benefits and Drawbacks
If you`re still on the fence about pulling the trigger, it`s worth noting the main benefits and drawbacks that come with buying a used Mercedes. The benefits are rather clear. You`ll be investing in a vehicle that, while not trouble-free, is known for its longevity, safety, performance and comfort. They also depreciate slower than an economy car.
On the other hand, buying any used car means that you`re taking a chance. You should also consider the repair and maintenance costs associated with owning a Mercedes-Benz. Being a luxury car, these can be high in the event that something goes wrong, so be sure to budget for routine maintenance and potential issues.
Service History
Once you`ve picked out a specific car, you should take a look at its history report. This can be done by performing a vehicle history search using the car`s VIN number. The report will help you uncover important information, such as the title, maintenance, accident, damage and mileage history. You can also find out if it was a manufacturer buyback.
Buying Spare Parts
Once you`ve gotten your hands on your used Mercedes, you might find a part or two that needs replacing. If not, it may happen in the future, whether it`s due to wear and tear or an accident. In either case, you`ll find that getting those parts replaced at an official dealership is far from cheap.
The simplest components can cost thousands of dollars and may require importing from another country. This is why it`s important to know where you can get them elsewhere for less. For instance, you can search for used parts Mercedes Benz online through a specialized website, thus helping you find them for a more reasonable price.
Insurance
The final cost implication to consider comes when you decide to insure your car. Being in the luxury segment, you may have to pay more to insure your Mercedes. If you`re prepared to pay one lump sum annually, you can significantly reduce the cost. Be sure to compare insurers before settling on a specific policy.
Few feelings can compare to that of owning your own Mercedes-Benz. Provided you do your due diligence during the buying process, you can easily purchase the right vehicle and enjoy it for years to come.
