Car Guide

10 Best Pickup Trucks to Buy in 2023
June 23, 2023

10 Best Pickup Trucks to Buy in 2023

Discover the best pickup trucks to buy in 2023. From off-road warriors to versatile and affordable options, explore their features, performance, and overall value. Find your perfect truck for the great Canadian outdoors and beyond.

15 Car Safety Features to Consider While Buying a Car
June 19, 2023

15 Car Safety Features to Consider While Buying a Car

With a staggering number of car accidents and fatalities each year, prioritizing safety is paramount. Learn about mandatory features like seatbelts and airbags, and explore additional advanced safety measures that can make a significant difference. Find out which car safety features are a must-have and make the road a safer place for you and your loved ones.

Best Luxury Cars in Canada in 2023
June 16, 2023

Best Luxury Cars in Canada in 2023

This blog covers the best luxury cars in Canada in 2023 that redefine automotive excellence. Explore the top models, including Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Genesis G90, BMW 7 Series, Porsche Panamera, and Audi A8. These cars offer a perfect blend of opulence and performance.

Hybrid Vs. Electric Cars: Which is Better?
June 14, 2023

Hybrid Vs. Electric Cars: Which is Better?

Explore the differences between hybrid and electric vehicles, including environmental impact, range, charging time, maintenance costs, and pricing. Discover the factors to consider when choosing between the two and learn about tax rebates and incentives available.

Top 9 Hybrid Cars in Canada
June 5, 2023

Top 9 Hybrid Cars in Canada

Discover the top 9 hybrid cars in Canada and choose your eco-friendly ride wisely. From fuel efficiency to affordability, we've compiled the best options like the Toyota Prius, Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, and Honda Accord Hybrid. Find the perfect balance between power, safety, and sustainability in this comprehensive guide. 

Best Fuel-Efficient Hybrid SUVs in Canada
May 31, 2023

Best Fuel-Efficient Hybrid SUVs in Canada

Discover the best fuel-efficient hybrid SUVs in Canada! Explore powerful yet eco-friendly vehicles with impressive gas mileage, sleek designs, and modern features.

How Do Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles (PHEV) Work?
May 29, 2023

How Do Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles (PHEV) Work?

Curious about plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs)? Check out our blog to learn more about the mechanics behind their efficient performance and understand why they're a practical choice for eco-conscious drivers. 

Pros and Cons of Investing in Plug-in Hybrid Cars
May 22, 2023

Pros and Cons of Investing in Plug-in Hybrid Cars

Explore the pros and cons of investing in plug-in hybrid cars (PHEVs) in our informative blog. Learn about how PHEVs work, the charging infrastructure needed, and the advantages and disadvantages compared to fully electric vehicles.

Don't you dread the idea of shelling out thousands of dollars for a brand-new car, only to see its value drop as soon as you drive it off the lot? And as gas prices seem to be on an endless upward trajectory, it's no wonder why so many people are feeling the pinch of owning a car. The cost of gas alone can make you want to sell your vehicle and take up hitchhiking.   So, what's the next best alternative to buying a new car? Owning a used car!  By purchasing a used car, you can avoid the steep depreciation that new cars experience in their first few years and enjoy a vehicle that is just as reliable and functional as a new one but at a fraction of the cost. Not only do they often come at a much more affordable price point, but they also tend to have lower insurance rates and a wider range of options to choose from.  So, whether you're a first-time car buyer or a seasoned veteran looking for a change, buying a used car might just be the way to go.  Here are the top five reasons for you to buy a used car in 2023: 1. Buying a used car saves money  Choosing a used car instead of a new one can result in substantial savings in various ways. Not only will the initial sticker price be lower, but you'll also spend less on fees, insurance, and depreciation.   Buying a used car also opens up possibilities for upgrading to a bigger, more luxurious, or technologically advanced model with the extra funds you saved. Even a car that's just a year or two old can save you significant amounts of money compared to buying a brand-new one.  2. Used cars have less depreciation   Despite the attractive perks that come with purchasing a new car, such as free maintenance and warranties, the reality is that cars lose their value over time. This makes buying a used car a much more cost-effective option. New cars can lose up to 20% of their value within the first year of purchase, making them a risky investment, especially if you're borrowing money to pay for it. In contrast, used cars depreciate at a much slower rate, providing a more stable loan-to-value ratio.   Additionally, shortages in new car production have caused some vehicles to depreciate at a slower rate or even gain value, making investing in a decent used car a potentially great decision.   3. Used cars have lower insurance costs  Your insurance company considers your car's value when determining the rates you pay. Suppose a new car is involved in an accident. In that case, the insurance company faces higher repair costs and charges more. Repair costs are typically lower for a used car, resulting in a lesser insurance fee.  There are other factors that can impact insurance costs, including age, driving history, credit score, mileage, and location. However, in general, insurance for a used vehicle tends to be lower due to the lower value of the car. It's important to note that insurance rates can vary, so it's crucial to compare rates and research your expected auto insurance cost before making a purchase.  4. Certified pre-owned option     Buying a used car can be an intimidating experience due to the potential for hidden issues. Many buyers prefer new cars with warranties, but certified pre-owned (CPO) programs have alleviated some of these concerns.  It's important to note that CPO programs vary by manufacturer, and there is a difference between dealership and manufacturer certifications. Manufacturer certification typically provides more benefits, such as car warranties and roadside assistance.  Some used car dealerships offer their own warranties that match those provided by new car dealerships. Purchasing a certified pre-owned car can provide peace of mind as these vehicles meet the manufacturer's standards and come with a guarantee against defects, similar to a new-car warranty. To find a CPO vehicle, check dealership inventories and research online beforehand.   5. No additional costs for customized features  When purchasing a new car, customized features come with additional costs that add up as you add more to the vehicle. On the other hand, used cars come as is, with no extra fees for any previously customized features. This means that you may not have the same level of customization as with a new car, but you won't pay for any extra features that you don't need or want.      Here's what you need to know about taxes while buying a used car  Taxes can be perplexing if you haven't purchased a vehicle before. To avoid any surprises when you see the car's final price, here's a quick breakdown to help you understand the taxes.  The Ministry of Finance determines your tax rate based on the price you paid for the vehicle or the Red Book wholesale value of the vehicle, whichever is greater. You can find the Red Book value in the Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP) given by the seller.  Even if you paid less than the Red Book value for the vehicle, the Red Book value still determines the taxes you pay.  Once you have purchased the vehicle, you'll need to pay a 13% retail sales tax (RST) on the motor vehicle, regardless of whether you bought it from a private seller or a dealer.  Many CPO cars also come with additional warranties, so be sure to understand the coverage length and what is included.     Process of registering a car in Ontario  To register your newly purchased vehicle in Ontario, Canada, you must visit Service Ontario. You will be required to pay a $32 vehicle permit fee and a $59 license plate fee for registration. It is important to note that you have six days from the date of purchase to complete the registration process. In addition to the fees, there is a 13% tax rate that applies to the purchase of a vehicle in Ontario. It is also necessary for buyers to receive a Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP) from the seller, which contains essential information needed for vehicle registration. Furthermore, a Safety Standards Certificate must be presented during registration to ensure that the vehicle meets the required safety standards.     Factors to consider while buying a used car:  Fuel economy is an important factor to consider when buying a used car, as it affects cost and range  Cargo capacity is essential for those who need to transport goods or people regularly  Engine size affects power and fuel economy, so it's crucial to find a balance between the two  Safety ratings and features should be considered to ensure the vehicle is safe to drive  Mileage should be taken into account, and research should be done on the longevity and maintenance of the vehicle    Which is better - buying from private sellers or car dealerships?  Private sellers offer little security or warranty, and it's harder to determine fair pricing or financing options. In contrast, used car dealers offer more security and warranty options, fair pricing, financing options, a wider variety of choices, and expert advice. It's easier and less stressful to buy from a dealer who can guide you through the process and recommend a car that suits your needs and budget.     How can we help?  At Approval Genie, we work with various lenders to help you find an affordable financing option that fits your budget. We know that navigating the world of car buying can be daunting, but with our experienced advisors by your side, you'll feel confident and secure in your purchase decision. We make buying a used car easier than ever by simplifying the process and providing financing assistance to those who need it. Let us help you find the perfect car for your needs and budget.
May 19, 2023

Top 5 Reasons to Buy a Used Car

Discover the benefits of buying a used car in 2023 and why it may be a smarter choice than purchasing a new one. In this blog, you will learn about taxes and the registration process in Ontario, as well as factors to consider when buying a used car.

 

Top 14 Hybrid SUVs in Canada
May 12, 2023

Top 14 Hybrid SUVs in Canada

With fuel prices and emissions regulations increasing, hybrid SUVs are becoming popular among families who want to travel comfortably and be environmentally conscious. Find out more about the spacious interiors, powerful performance and impressive fuel efficiency of these top-rated hybrid SUVs in Canada.

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