7 Advantages of Buying a Low-Mileage Van
Updated on May 20, 2024 / 3 min read
There has been a reinvigorated interest in vans from buyers thanks to their versatility and hauling abilities. Due to the surge in demand and the shifting economic landscape, van prices have increased, leading many buyers to opt for used vans as a cost-effective solution. When buying a used car, buyers must carefully determine its value to ensure a fair price. One of the biggest factors that buyers rely on to do so is its mileage.
Low-mileage vans for sale
The “low mileage” tag on used vans is an indication that the vehicle has not been driven around extensively. Buyers generally interpret it as a sign of less wear and tear and the potential for a longer lifespan.
Whether one purchases a new or used van, certain components need to be changed periodically. Replace the brake pads and tires every 20,000 miles, the brake discs every 40,000 miles, and the timing belt and water pump every 70,000 miles. The clutch and flywheels can typically last up to the 100,000-mile mark, but this largely depends on the owner’s driving style and history.
Advantages of buying a low-mileage van
Buyers can enjoy a host of benefits when opting for a low-mileage van for sale rather than buying a new one.
1. Reduced depreciation
A new van’s value starts to decrease as soon as it leaves the lot. According to some valuers, the value of a vehicle drops by around 20% within the first year of ownership. This speed slows down to a stable 10% once the vehicle reaches the age of four.
Someone else has already borne the brunt of this depreciation with a low-mileage used van. Because the vehicle’s value has already fallen, buyers are less likely to lose money when they sell or trade it in the future.
2. Cost-effective
One of the biggest reasons people opt for used cars is the cost savings they offer. Pre-owned vehicles have already undergone a certain amount of depreciation, reducing their current market value and making them more affordable.
3. Better reliability
Low-mileage vans have likely experienced less wear and tear due to their reduced driving mileage. This means that the engine, transmission, and other components are in better condition, with a reduced risk of repairs. This makes them more reliable than vans with higher mileage.
That being said, one must always check the vehicle’s service history to get a clear picture of its past usage and set realistic expectations about its performance and reliability in the future.
4. Better financing rates
Since used vehicles are often cheaper than new ones, they present a smaller financial risk to lenders. This may prompt them to offer better financing options to complete the purchase.
5. Lower insurance costs
Newer, less-driven vehicles are believed to be more reliable than older ones, as they have likely undergone less wear and tear. Many think that this dependability makes them less accident-prone. As a result, insurance companies are likely to offer lower insurance premiums on low-mileage used vans as opposed to extensively driven variants.
6. Warranty coverage
The manufacturer’s warranty often continues to cover low-mileage vans. Some dealerships also run certified pre-owned (CPO) programs, testing and tuning used vehicles to improve reliability. These programs often come with exclusive warranty periods to help buyers feel more confident about their purchase.
7. Higher resale value
Should one decide to resell their van, it is important to remember that a low-mileage used vehicle is likely to be more attractive to potential buyers, which may improve its resale value in the long run.
Although low-mileage vans for sale are promising, buyers must always be prudent and proceed cautiously. Buyers should be aware that the driving location significantly influences the car’s components. For instance, highways are typically less taxing on the van’s engine and transmission, causing less wear and tear. On the other hand, vans with heavy city miles are more prone to having worn-out clutch, gearbox, and brakes because of constant usage.
That is why buyers must also consider other factors, such as the van’s age and condition. A “low mileage” classification alone does not necessarily mean that the van is in excellent condition. The physical condition of the vehicle largely depends on how well the previous owner maintained it. This includes following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and replacing components as needed. Inspecting all these aspects beforehand will help buyers make a more confident purchase decision. Additionally, they will get to use their low-mileage van for an extended period.
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