Do you have a teen getting ready to drive? Do you need a truck to help you run errands and haul things? Whatever the reason, adding a second vehicle to your household can provide you with many advantages. But what used cars for sale are best for what you need? The answer depends on what you plan to use it for. From teen drivers who need safety features to DIY craftsmen who need a way to pick up wood at the lumber yard or even the growing family considering a minivan, there is a used vehicle that meets your needs.
When adding a used vehicle to your household, it’s important to consider capacity, reliability, and safety. There are some vehicles that hit the mark better than others, but it can be hard to wade through the options. Take a look at the following reasons you might need an extra vehicle, plus options to consider.
Reasons to Purchase an Extra Vehicle
When considering adding an extra vehicle, consider your reasons and whether the choice fits within your budget. You also want to make sure the vehicle you choose fits your needs. For instance, if you borrow your best friend’s truck every other weekend to help you haul things, a small two-door car isn’t what you need. Likewise, a truck might not be the best choice if your family is growing. Some of the top reasons for adding an extra car are listed below.
Growing Family
Managing different schedules and transportation requirements becomes increasingly difficult as your family grows. The stress of organizing everyone’s activities can be reduced by having a second automobile, which guarantees that everyone can arrive at their destinations comfortably and on time.
Work and Personal Commitments
Having a second car can give you the flexibility you need if you and your partner have different work hours or regular commitments that call for transportation. By not relying primarily on one vehicle, multiple drivers in your household can preserve their independence and manage their mobility needs.
Distance and Commuting
Having a second car can be crucial if you live in a suburban or rural area with few public transportation choices. It guarantees that both partners may commute to work effectively, especially if their workplaces are dispersed across the city or necessitate travel at various hours.
Specific Needs
People may need a certain kind of vehicle. For instance, if you enjoy upcycling furniture on the weekend, you may need a truck. Similarly, a second car with storage space and off-road capabilities can be excellent if you prefer outdoor activities like camping, hiking, or bicycling.
Things to Consider When Looking for a Second Vehicle
Not only do you need to determine what vehicle you want, but you also need to decide on a few other factors. One of the biggest factors is your budget. It’s important to set aside money to operate a second vehicle, as well as determine what you can afford to buy. Don’t forget to consider insurance, gasoline, maintenance, and probable repairs. You will also need to clearly define the needs and purposes for which your second car will be used.
Take into account your daily transportation demands, the number of passengers, storage space, fuel efficiency, and any specialized features or capabilities you might require. Additionally, consider the car’s potential resale value before buying a second vehicle. If you intend to sell or upgrade your automobile in the future, think about the long-term financial elements. Some used cars hold their worth better than others. Another factor to consider is the insurance cost. Speak with your insurance company to discuss deductibles and what discounts you will qualify for by insuring more than one vehicle.
Used Vehicles to Consider for a Second Car
Once you’ve determined how you will use your second car, it’s time to start shopping. A few of the best used options are listed below.
2019 Kia Soul
A used Kia Soul is the perfect second car when your teen starts to drive, or you need extra cargo space for hobbies or your four-legged friend. The driver’s seat offers superb visibility like a larger SUV while still feeling small enough for new drivers to maneuver easily. The Kia Soul also has a quirky design that people find enjoyable and unique. Regarding reliability, the 2019 Kia Soul gets good marks in all categories.
The 2019 Kia Soul has three engine options, with the middle-of-the-road 2.0L four-cylinder being the most popular option. If you want more energy off the line, choose the turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder of the Exclaim trim. Inside the Soul, there is plenty of room for four people. The intuitive dash is easy to use, providing a seamless connection to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. With the top trims of the 2019 Kia Soul, you can enjoy perks like a push-button start, heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and more.
2019 Chevy Traverse
The 2019 Chevy Traverse gives you cargo space and capacity with three rows of seats. This used crossover is worth a test drive for growing families who need more room or active families who enjoy the road less traveled. Its 3.6-liter V6 engine is responsive and feels good driving down the road. Additionally, visibility is impressive with expansive windows. The Chevy Traverse offers several driver-assist features, including Forward Collision Alert, Front Automatic Braking, and Side Blind Zone Alert. If your teen driver is behind the wheel, you can activate Teen Driver mode, giving you a report of their driving abilities and automatically engaging key safety features.
The LT Leather trim with its leather seats gives you the most bang for your buck, including available 20-inch wheels, a remote start system, an eight-inch touchscreen, and a power rear liftgate. Of course, you can always look for a used Traverse Premier or Traverse High Country if you want even more features. If you plan to spend your weekends in nature, the 2019 Chevy Traverse can tow up to 5,000 lbs with the towing package option.
2020 Chevy Silverado 1500
Consider a used 2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 if you need a truck. For the 2020 model year, Chevy beefed up the Silverado 1500 by adding a 3.0-liter Duramax turbo-diesel engine option. This engine increases the Silverado’s performance and efficiency, especially when towing. Not only that, but the full-size bed gives you the hauling space you need, whether you’re picking up equipment to start a garden or working on a remodeling project at home. The bed of this truck isn’t the only space where you get ample room. The interior of the Silverado 1500 is generous, with plenty of legroom and headroom for you and your passengers.
There is also an innovative infotainment system, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, as well as cushioned seats and storage. Depending on the trim of your used Silverado 1500, you can also find heated seats, remote start, and dual-zone climate control. When using the truck to help you move things, you get three tie-down loops in each corner of the bed and four stake pockets on the side rails. The truck bed is also grooved for easy packing and stacking. For security, the tailgate locks with the central locking system. Some models also have a 120-volt outlet in the bed.
Adding a Second Car Can Increase Your Flexibility and Efficiency
Whether you add a used car, SUV, or truck to your fleet, you’re certain to see the benefits in the first few days of ownership. A second car can give you the cargo space you need when you need it, rather than relying on friends or renting an extra vehicle. It can also help your teen driver get the experience they need or help you and your partner when your schedules don’t mesh well. After you’ve determined how you’ll use your second car, you can decide which used vehicle checks the most boxes. From there, it’s as easy as heading to the dealership.
