04/13/2026
Is there really such a thing today as an affordable car? With average new car prices hovering around $45,000 to $50,000, is it truly affordable to buy a new vehicle?
The used car market remains strong because of these high new car prices. So what’s causing prices to rise? Is it the added safety features and advanced technology in today’s vehicles? Is it rising wages for automotive workers? Or is it simply dealerships trying to keep more of your money?
There may be a little truth to all of those questions. However, it’s important to understand that dealerships typically don’t make most of their money on the front end of a sale. The real profit is usually in the back end, particularly in the service department, which is often the main source of income.
From an engineering standpoint, newer vehicles are more advanced than ever. Increased safety technology and innovation have certainly contributed to higher prices. So in reality, it’s a combination of factors driving costs up.
In today’s market, what can consumers do to save money?
Do your homework. Know which vehicles are the safest by checking resources like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Look into the true cost of ownership, including maintenance, repairs, and fuel economy. These all play a major role over time. Routine maintenance such as oil changes, spark plugs, and drive belts can add up, so it’s important to factor those in.
With rising costs and higher fuel prices, many people are turning to electric vehicles for potential savings on maintenance and fuel. However, buyers should do their research, as EVs can sometimes come with higher insurance costs and higher upfront prices.
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to buying a car. A vehicle is an extension of who we are. It reflects our personality, from the color we choose to whether we prefer a sports car, SUV, or electric vehicle.
When it’s time to buy, make sure you understand the value of the vehicle you’re considering. Shop around and have dealerships compete for your business, especially when buying new. Used cars can be harder to negotiate because pricing varies based on trade-in value, auction pricing, and condition. No two used vehicles are exactly alike.
New cars, on the other hand, are easier to price shop. You can search nationwide and compare what similar vehicles are selling for in different regions.
At the end of the day, preparation is key. Do your homework and let dealerships compete to earn your business. It may take some time, maybe even a few days, but the savings can be worth it.
And if you don’t have the time to make calls, negotiate, and work out a deal, let us handle it for you. If you already know the vehicle you want, we can negotiate on your behalf from start to finish. All you have to do is walk into the dealership, sign your paperwork, and drive away in your new vehicle. Some dealerships even offer delivery and remote signing.
If you’re ready, just send us a message—we’d love to help.
