The Many Benefits of Buying a Pre-Owned Vehicle in Canada
If your Uncle Frank still insists that only brand-new cars are worth it, it might be time for a little update. Today’s used vehicles aren’t what they were 30 years ago. In fact, they’ve come a long way, lasting longer, driving better, and offering more peace of mind than ever. Whether you’re shopping for your first car or looking to upgrade on a budget, there are plenty of good reasons to go pre-owned. At Bennett Dunlop Ford in Regina, SK, we’re here to walk you through them.
1. Today’s Cars Last a Whole Lot Longer
Cars today are built to last. With better engineering and longer-lasting parts, many vehicles on the road now can reach, or even exceed 200,000 kilometres without blinking. That means a used vehicle with 80,000 or even 120,000 km on the odometer still has plenty of life left in it. So no, you’re not signing up for a mechanical money pit, you’re likely getting a solid, road-ready ride.
2. You Save Big Upfront
Let’s talk dollars and sense. The moment a new car rolls off the lot, it loses about 10% of its value. Within a year, it could drop by 20% or more. But when you buy a car that’s already a few years old, someone else has taken that depreciation hit. You get the same vehicle: same features, same performance, for way less money.
3. Stretch Your Budget Further
A used car lets your money go a lot further. For example, if you have a budget around $13,500, your options in the new market might be limited to compact hatchbacks. But in the pre-owned world? You’ll find SUVs, trucks, sedans, hybrids, you name it. That variety gives you the power to choose a vehicle that actually suits your lifestyle, not just your wallet.
4. The Used Market Is Thriving
The used car scene in Canada is booming, and it’s not just about private sales on Facebook Marketplace anymore. Dealerships like ours offer quality pre-owned vehicles with inspection reports, warranties, and often added perks. Plus, with online tools like Canada Drives, you can get pre-approved in minutes and shop confidently from home.
5. You Can See a Car’s Whole History
Gone are the days of buying a used car blind. Thanks to services like CARFAX Canada, you can check accident reports, service records, and ownership history before you even test drive. At Bennett Dunlop Ford, we offer CARFAX reports for full transparency, because peace of mind matters.
6. Certified Pre-Owned = Confidence
If you want a like-new experience without the new price, Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles are the way to go. CPO vehicles are handpicked, thoroughly reconditioned, and backed by manufacturer warranties. They’ve passed multi-point inspections and come with added perks like roadside assistance and extended warranty options that are perfect for buyers who want both value and security.
7. Insurance Is Usually Cheaper
Used vehicles tend to cost less to replace, which usually means cheaper insurance premiums. While rates vary depending on the model and your location in Saskatchewan, this added savings can really add up over time and lower your total cost of ownership.
8. Extended Warranty Options Are Available
Even if a used car’s factory warranty has run out, that doesn’t mean you’re left unprotected. Many dealerships (ours included) offer extended warranties and customizable coverage plans. These can cover major repairs and keep your car protected well beyond the test drive.
Ready to Explore Pre-Owned?
If you're curious about what your budget can really get you, stop by Bennett Dunlop Ford in Regina, SK. We’re here to help you navigate the used car market with confidence and clarity. From affordable financing to trustworthy CPO options, we’ll help you find a pre-owned vehicle that fits your lifestyle, your needs, and your wallet.