Used Cars For Sale in Edmonton, AB (2024)

FAQs

How old of a used car is the best deal? ›

If your goal is to save on a pre-owned vehicle, it's advisable to seek one that has already undergone most of its depreciation. This entails finding a car that is at least two years old, but ideally between three and four years old.

Stop shopping after you sign a purchase contract. When you buy a vehicle, there is no “cooling off” period. Even if you “find a better deal,” or “change your mind” a dealer can enforce the contract. The only way you can cancel the contract is if the seller has a policy that says you may.

There's no rule to how many miles on a used car is too much, but by attempting to stick to the 12,000 miles per year rule is a great place to start. Find out how old the car is, multiple the number of years by 12,000, and if the number on the odometer is significantly higher than that, some concern might be warranted.

The automotive industry has undergone significant technological advancements over the past two decades. Features such as advanced safety systems, infotainment, and fuel efficiency may be lacking in a 20-year-old car, potentially compromising the overall driving experience and safety.

Toyota is considered to be the go-to vehicle for reliability, while brands like Honda, Mazda, Subaru and Hyundai are also highly ranked for their quality and cheap maintenance costs. Brand recognition isn't the only factor for choosing what's a reliable vehicle.

The Toyota Yaris is ranked as the most reliable used car from the 2024. Now on its fourth generation, this data covers only the third-generation version that launched in 2011 that remained on sale until 2019.

Car shopping? Buying a used car can save you money, but you'll want to check the vehicle's age and the number on its odometer to get an even greater value. According to Autotrader, the best used vehicle should be between four and six years old, and have less than 50,000 miles.

How can you tell if a used car is bad? ›

Listen for odd sounds: Any unusual noises coming from the engine, brakes, or transmission should be checked out by a mechanic. Rough transmission shifts are also a red flag. Check for water damage: If the interior has a musty smell, it could be a sign the car has flood damage or leaky windows.

Car polishes applied with a microfiber cloth can be used by dealers to buff out scratches and restore the paint to its original color. To a purchaser who is only looking at the car briefly, it then appears as if the scratch doesn't exist.

If your vehicle is 12 years of age or older, you may be required to submit a passing vehicle inspection report form within 14 days of obtaining your insurance. If your vehicle was last registered outside of Alberta you will need to provide an out-of-province inspection in order to register your vehicle.

How much does it cost to register a vehicle in Alberta? The standard registration fee in Alberta is $93. There are additional fees for personalized plates, and the price varies for other types of vehicles such as motorcycles, trailers, or off road vehicles.

Some consumers may not realize there is no “cooling off” period when you buy a vehicle, even if you have buyer's remorse. Understanding the contract, financing, warranties and any other details involved in the purchase before signing anything are important steps to having a positive purchase experience.

When shopping, is there a best age for purchasing a used car? Cars are usually reliable for up to five years if they've been looked after. But a well-maintained 10-year-old car could be a better investment than a newer model that hasn't been cared for as well. Budget is also a major factor.

Buyers looking for a cost-effective option may find that a 10-year-old car provides good value for the money. Depreciation Slows Down: By the time a car reaches the 10-year mark, the initial depreciation has likely slowed down. While it continues to depreciate over time, the rate is generally more gradual.

The Best Time to Buy a Used Car

Purchasing a used vehicle that is 2-3 years old means that you are getting a relatively new car in good condition without being affected heavily by depreciation. However, you stand a chance to save even more if you purchase an older car.