A TikTok Spain user, @checkthecar, has captivated the attention of countless people on this social network after explaining on his official profile how to get a secondhand car that is completely reliable, economical, and, most importantly, easy to maintain to save a few euros on the purchase of a first car. The mechanic recommends a Renault Clio 1500 DCI for those on a tight budget, showing the cost of maintenance. The mechanic emphasizes that the cost of the secondhand car is not only the initial cost but also includes maintenance, parts, and repairs. The mechanic stresses the importance of considering not only the economic cost of the secondhand car but also the cost of maintenance and repairs.
What you need to know about getting a reliable secondhand car
The mechanic also gave an example: Assume I am 18 years old and work as an extra at a bar on weekends, making it harder for us to conduct some economic procedures. However, this Renault Clio 1500 DCI is extremely inexpensive. If we add up the cost of spare components and all of the filters, it comes to 82 euros. The oil and oil filter, which must be replaced every year, cost around 23 euros, according to the mechanic. He also admitted that the upkeep and usage of this model are ridiculous: It’s a little lighter, a 1500 diesel with 65 horsepower, and it consumes very little. It has a modest turbo but delivers a lot of power, and all of its components are relatively simple, and it has front-wheel drive.
Moreover, this car is very easy to deal with; there is plenty of space and room for any type of activity. However, the mechanic lists the Renault Clio’s benefits and guarantees that “it has all the comforts.” One of these models may be purchased for about 3,000 euros. It offers every convenience. The front and rear electric windows and air conditioning are operated manually, but nothing happens. The exterior of the car is fairly comfy, and the elevated driving position, which keeps you from being stuck to the ground, makes it even more comfortable. However, because of its relatively compact exterior, parking is made easier, and the interior is spacious enough for four passengers. It is compact, has a distinct personality, and costs either 1500 or 3000 euros on Wallapop, depending on how many kilometers it has.
Is now the right time to buy a secondhand car?
With both new and secondhand car prices holding steady in March, consider this the relative calm before the storm. What will happen when US tariffs on new cars and auto parts trickle down to consumers is anyone’s guess. Tariffs have the power to alter the plans of car buyers in a way that only major events like wars and the COVID-19 pandemic have. However, the White House is considering another pause that would change the direction of the auto industry. The auto market is in good shape right now, but it’s not wise to rush into expensive purchases that could leave you in debt for years. If you’re not sure what to buy this year, you may still want to consider buying, selling, or trading in a new or secondhand car. Understanding what to expect and why to act quickly is crucial to a successful transaction.
Furthermore, Trump’s tariffs could raise prices if you want to buy a secondhand car. Two sets of new tariffs implemented by President Trump have the potential to significantly alter auto prices in the US. A 25% tariff was applied to several imported autos starting on April 3. Furthermore, if the White House does not halt duties, parts will suffer the same fate on May 3. Since all North American-made cars use foreign-made parts, prices will go up. Before determining how much each automobile will cost, the auto sector must wait for new government regulations outlining how officials will implement the tariffs. The vehicles on dealer lots now were probably all imported at pre-tariff prices.
Dealers may attempt to convince buyers to pay more for those vehicles to raise the funds necessary to replace them at post-tariff rates. Additionally, interested people in buying their secondhand car should consider the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase price is a valuable tool for understanding local price changes, calculated using recent transactions for a specific vehicle in your area. It updates weekly, highlighting how tariffs and tariff anxiety are impacting the price of the vehicle you’re interested in, affecting each brand and dealer at different times.
