2667 84th Street SW Byron Center, MI 49315 616-878-5991

Latest News, Tips & More | Tillema Auto Sales and Service

How to Sell Your Used Vehicle

Selling your car can be a hassle, especially if you have never sold one before. Haggling back and forth with an individual as you try to negotiate a fair price can be frustrating. With something as expensive as a car, you want to be doubly sure you are getting your money's worth and not being scammed. But it can be hard to tell sometimes who's trying to take advantage of you and who's giving you a fair deal. We at Tillema Auto know it can be a frustrating process fraught with the danger of being taken advantage of. That's why we’re dedicated to helping our customers make informed decisions. Check out these helpful tips on how to sell your used vehicle.

How to Sell Your Used Vehicle

Before you are able to begin the selling process, there are a few key things to take care of. Follow these easy steps to get your vehicle ready to be sold.

1. Ensure the Vehicle is Clean

Before you bring your vehicle anywhere to be sold or appraised, make sure it's as clean as possible. Making sure there are no messes or stains on the interior will get you a better price for your vehicle. The better the condition the car is in, the better price you will get for it.

It's equally important that the exterior is as clean as possible. Buff out any scratches you can and make sure the vehicle is washed. You'll get the most money out of your vehicle if it looks to be in quality condition.

Additionally, you'll need to remove all personal belongings from the vehicle. The last thing you want is to forget an important personal item in the vehicle when it's sold.

2. Schedule an Appointment

Once your car is clean and you have an idea of how much you want for it, just schedule an appointment with our sales staff. Selling your car to us can be as simple as that! 

When you make an appointment, we are often able to make an offer on site. While you should have an idea of how much you want for your vehicle, appraisal will be based on industry comparibles and market value. This means that you can expect us to offer the price equal to your car's true value.

3. Bring Your Vehicle in For an Offer

Next, all that's left to do is bring your car in to receive an offer. Once you meet with our sales staff, you'll usually receive an offer on site. At Tillema Auto, we won't haggle with you in an attempt to take advantage of you. We will always pay a fair price. 

Sleazy car salesmen are a thing of the past at Tillema Auto. We want to get you the best value for your car possible because we understand how difficult selling your vehicle can be.

Contact Us Today

Schedule an appointment with our sales staff today to get the price you deserve for your used vehicle. Call us at 616-878-5991 to sell your vehicle or visit our website to find your new vehicle at an affordable price.

Our Process - How We Make it Easy to Buy Used

We know that the process of buying a new or used vehicle can be stressful. At Tillema Auto, part of treating our customers like family means making the process as smooth and painless as possible. We strive to make our process simple, so you can buy the vehicle you need and get on the road!

Wondering what the process looks like? Here's an insider's look:

Our Process - Buying a Used Vehicle at Tillema Auto

1. Check our inventory

The first step is simple. After narrowing down your needs for a vehicle and the price range you want to be in, browse through our inventory to find your perfect match. All of our vehicles are conveniently listed on the inventory page of our website, so you can browse from the comfort of your home.

2. Schedule a test drive

It's important to know exactly what you're buying and make sure it feels right for you. All of our vehicles have been tested by our competent mechanics, so you can rest assured that they're safe and ready to get you where you need to go.

But choosing the right vehicle is about much more than just safety. Your vehicle is an important companion day after day, so test driving is an essential step to help you find just the right fit.

3. Tell us about your trade in (if applicable)

Many of our buyers love to take advantage of our trade-in program. With this program, it's easy to upgrade your previous vehicle for a new one.

Trading in your vehicle rather than selling it also gives you a monetary advantage due to Michigan's trade-in sales tax credit.

4. Apply for financing (on our website)

We make it easy to apply for financing. You can do it from home on your time, which makes the buying process quicker and smoother when you get here!

Just fill out the online financing application.

5. Fill out the paperwork

When you come in to finalize your purchase and fill out the paperwork, you'll need to bring:

  • Your driver's license

  • Registration and proof of insurance, if you're transferring a license plate

  • Vehicle trade-in information and items, including title, release of lien (if applicable), and keys

  • Proof of no-fault insurance (in the state of Michigan)

  • Financing information (if necessary), possibly including proof of income and personal references

6. Drive your new-used vehicle down the road

And you're done! At Tillema Auto, we keep the process for buying your vehicle as simple as possible. However, if you have any questions along the way, don't hesitate to ask. We're here for you!

We understand that a vehicle is a vital part of your life, and we strive to make it as easy as possible to get your next reliable set of wheels.

7. Don't forget to come back for regular oil changes!

Every vehicle needs regular oil changes, and we're here to make yours quick, smooth, and easy. We know that finding a mechanic you can trust is difficult - even for simple things like oil changes.

At Tillema Auto, we take pride in the trusting relationships we have with our Byron Center community. You can find out what our customers are saying about Tillema Auto in our Google reviews.

Ready for Your Next Used Vehicle?

Ready to get started on your search? Browse through our inventory today, or give us a call at 616-878-5991 and let us know how we can help! 

Used Car Buying Checklist - What You Need to Bring

At Tillema Auto, we specialize in selling quality, used vehicles. Each of our vehicles are diligently inspected by our professional mechanics before they're listed for sale. For those looking to purchase a used vehicle, it can be confusing to know what you need to bring to complete your purchase. This used car buying checklist will explain what you need to bring with you in order to complete the sale and take your used vehicle home.

Used Car Buying Checklist - What You Need to Bring

Since most people only need to buy vehicles every few years or so, the process can feel foreign. It's no fun to show up to take your vehicle home and find out that you're missing a key piece of information.

Before you head out the door, check this quick list. Do you have everything you'll need? You'll want to make sure that you've collected:

  1. Your driver's license

  2. License plate, registration, and proof of insurance (if you're transferring a plate)

  3. For trades, you'll need the vehicle's title, release of lien, and keys

  4. No-fault insurance (in the state of Michigan and other states)

  5. Financing information and/or payment

1. Driver's license

You probably have your driver's license with you already, but this is definitely one item you don't want to forget. A valid driver's license is required for test driving and for completing the paperwork to buy your vehicle.

2. License plate, registration, and proof of insurance from your previous vehicle

Many buyers end up transferring a license plate from a different vehicle. The plate itself might not be so hard to remember, but did you grab the registration and proof of insurance for your current vehicle, too?

These documents make for a quicker process for you. However, if you do not have the registration, we can typically get the information we need from the plate.

3. Information for your traded vehicle

A lot of our buyers like to trade in their current vehicle for their next vehicle. This gives you the opportunity to get a better value with the trade-in sales tax credit in Michigan.

If you're trading a vehicle in, you will need to bring the vehicle's title, a release of lien (if applicable), and all of the keys.

4. No-fault insurance

In the State of Michigan, you are required to have no-fault insurance before signing the paperwork to buy a vehicle. Once you have your insurance squared away, you'll need to make sure to bring with you the proof of insurance, which includes your insurance company and your policy number.

5. Payment or financing information

If we're financing the vehicle in house, we may need some additional information that could include proof of income and personal references

If you're paying for your vehicle outright, you'll need to bring a credit or debit card, cash, or a check.

Have Questions About What to Bring?

If you have questions about what you need to bring in order to buy your used car, don't hesitate to give us a call at 616-878-5991. Our friendly team is standing by, ready to help you with your used vehicle purchase. At Tillema Auto, our customers are like family.

Still on the hunt for the right vehicle for you? Stop by any time, or check out our inventory online.

5 Tips for Selling Your Used Car

Ready to sell your used car and move on to your next ride? Selling a car can be a hassle, but there are steps you can take to make the process much smoother. From clearing out items that are often forgotten to making sure that your title or lien release is ready to gathering maintenance records, here are some tips for selling your used car to help your experience go as smoothly as possible.

5 Tips for Selling Your Used Car

1. Don't forget to remove everything

It's no fun to watch your vehicle drive away, only to realize a week later that you forgot something important! Vehicles these days are full of helpful compartments and places to tuck away your important items for streamlined travel. However, this can be to your detriment when you forget something and your car is gone!

Before you close the sale, do a thorough check in every compartment of your vehicle. Go through the trunk, check under the seats, and look through all the compartments. You should leave the manual, spare tire, jack, floor mats, and anything else that was part of the vehicle's original package.

2. Clean the interior and get a car wash

If you want to cash in on the highest sale amount possible, make sure you're presenting a clean and well-kept vehicle. Take the time to detail your vehicle and thoroughly clean the interior. Vacuum, wipe surfaces, and clean the inside of the windows. Then, take your car through a car wash to get the outside squeaky clean, too. Remember, the outside of the vehicle is the first impression potential buyers will have!

3. Make sure you have the title

Although it may seem obvious, most individual sellers don't necessarily have dozens of used vehicle sales under their belt. It can be easy to get caught up in thinking about about the best way to find buyers, negotiating, and making sure your vehicle looks spick and span.

Don't neglect to make sure that you have the title ready to go, and the lien release too if applicable. Don't forget to take a copy of the title before you let it go. You should also write up a bill of sale when you close the deal for seller (and buyer) protection.

4. Gather maintenance records and receipts

Gather any maintenance records and receipts that you have for your vehicle. Everything from oil change records, new tires, and larger repairs are helpful information for the buyer to have. These allow them to know when repairs have been made and when they might need to be made again. It also gives the buyer peace of mind to know that they have some history on the vehicle.

It's a great idea to keep a small notebook in your car and write down the date, service provider, and any details about each repair or upgrade you made.

5. Consider a used car dealership

If you're nervous about selling your vehicle yourself, you may consider taking it to a used car dealership to sell or to trade. When you sell your own vehicle, you'll need to be comfortable with taking pictures, listing it online, meeting with potential buyers, answering questions, negotiating, and completing all of the administrative steps of collecting your funds and closing the sale.

If you'd prefer to streamline the process, you can always take your car to a used dealership, collect your cash, and let them do the work.

At Tillema Auto, we make the process of selling your used vehicle easy. We also encourage buyers to trade in their vehicles. This gives you a better value with Michigan's trade-in sales tax credit and gives you options for easily finding a reliable, new-to-you vehicle.

Finding Your Next Vehicle at Tillema Auto

At Tillema Auto, we're committed to treating our customers like family. We know that your vehicle is a huge part of your life - it gets you where you need to go each day, and it needs to be reliable. From helping you sell your used car to finding you the best next vehicle for your needs to taking care of your ride in our service center, we take your needs seriously.

Ready to buy or sell? Contact us today at 616-878-5991, and we'll get you on the road.

10 Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Vehicle

Purchasing a vehicle is a significant decision that involves careful consideration of various factors to ensure you make the right choice. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, understanding your needs and preferences is crucial. In this guide, we'll explore 10 essential things to consider before purchasing a vehicle to help you make an informed decision.

10 Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Vehicle

1. Define your purpose

Before diving into the sea of car options, clarify the primary purpose of your vehicle. Are you looking for a family car, a fuel-efficient commuter, or an off-road adventurer? Knowing your intended use will narrow down your options and make the selection process more focused.

2. Establish your budget

Establishing a budget is fundamental when considering a vehicle purchase. Besides the sticker price, factor in additional costs like insurance, maintenance, fuel, and registration fees. Be realistic about what you can afford to avoid financial strain down the road.

3. New vs. used

Decide whether you want a brand-new vehicle or are open to considering used ones. New cars often come with the latest features, warranties, and technology, while used cars may offer better value for money and reduced insurance costs. Weigh the pros and cons based on your preferences and budget.

4. Fuel efficiency

With the rising cost of fuel and growing environmental concerns, fuel efficiency is a crucial consideration. Research and compare the miles per gallon (MPG) ratings of different vehicles to find an option that aligns best with your commuting needs.

5. Safety features

Prioritize safety when choosing a vehicle. Look for models with advanced safety features such as airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and collision avoidance systems. Check crash test ratings from reliable sources to assess a vehicle's safety performance.

6. Resale value

Consider the resale value of the vehicle you're interested in. Some brands and models hold their value better than others, which can impact your long-term financial outlook. Online resources and industry reports can provide insights into the resale value of specific makes and models.

7. Insurance costs

Insurance is a significant ongoing expense associated with vehicle ownership. Research insurance costs for different makes and models, as rates can vary based on factors such as the car's safety features, repair costs, year, and overall risk profile.

8. Maintenance and repair history

Investigate the maintenance and repair history of the vehicles you're considering. This information can reveal potential issues and give you an idea of the long-term reliability of a particular model. Check reviews and forums to gather insights from current owners.

9. Test drive multiple options

Don't rush the decision-making process. Test drive multiple vehicles to get a feel for their handling, comfort, and performance. Pay attention to the driving experience, noise levels, and overall comfort to ensure it aligns with your preferences.

10. Technology integration

In the era of rapidly advancing technology, consider the integration of cutting-edge features in your vehicle. Evaluate the infotainment system, connectivity options, and driver-assistance technologies. Features such as smartphone compatibility, navigation systems, adaptive cruise control, and parking assistance can significantly enhance your driving experience. Assess the user interface, ease of use, and upgradability of the technology to ensure that your vehicle remains relevant and enjoyable for the duration of your ownership.

Find the Right Vehicle for You at Tillema Auto

Choosing the right vehicle requires a combination of research, thought, and practical considerations. By carefully evaluating your needs, budget, and the features of different models, you can make a well-informed decision that not only meets your immediate requirements but also aligns with your long-term goals.

At Tillema Auto, we're ready to help you find the vehicle that aligns best with your needs and preferences. We specialize in quality, used vehicles that are carefully inspected by our professional mechanics, and are ready to get you where you need to go.

Check out our inventory, or call us at 616-878-5991 today! 

Best Car Detailing Tips

Regular detailing is an important way to keep your vehicle in great shape. A vehicle that's well-maintained will last longer, be more trustworthy, and give you more value back when it comes time to sell your car and upgrade to a new one. In addition, regular detailing gives you the opportunity to stay up-to-date on how your vehicle is doing and catch any potential service issues before they become a bigger problem. Here are our best car detailing tips for keeping your vehicle in tip-top shape.

Best Car Detailing Tips

Detailing your vehicle not only helps to extend its life and value, but it also makes it much more enjoyable to drive! There's nothing quite like the feeling of hopping into a freshly detailing, squeaky clean car.

And of course, having clean windows and mirrors and bright, clear headlights also makes your vehicle safer to drive.

You don't have to do a full car detailing every month - once or twice a year is sufficient for most people. However, keeping up with the simpler tasks - like washing the outside of your car and ensuring that your windows are clean - should be done more often.

So what are some ways you can keep your vehicle in great shape?

Washing

Start with a thorough, exterior wash. Keeping the outside of your vehicle clean from dust, grime, and salt will help prevent rust and corrosion. These lead to decreased value and can even eat away at the components of your vehicle's structure over time, causing much bigger problems.

You can wash your car yourself with a high-quality car wash shampoo and soft microfiber mitt. In addition, don't forget to clean your tires! You can use a bristled brush and some water and dish soap for this part of the job.

Or, of course, you can take it through your local car wash!

Interior detailing

Next, focus on this inside (where you'll get to experience the reward of a clear car every time you drive!).

Remove the loose carpets and vacuum all of the carpets and upholstery. Then, use a gentle cleaner for surfaces like the dashboard, console, and door panels. If you have leather seats, use a leather conditioner to keep them supple and crack-free.

Glass cleaning

Crystal-clear windows enhance the overall appearance of your car. Of course, they also help you see your surroundings without having to look past dirt and tiny bugs on your windshield!

Use a dedicated glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to clean both the inside and outside of your windows. For stubborn stains or water spots, a mixture of vinegar and water can work wonders.

Polishing

After your vehicle's surface is clean, a quality polish can help to enhance the paint's depth and shine. A dual-action polisher makes this process more efficient and helps prevent swirl marks. Follow up with a fine-grade polish to refine the finish further.

Wax and Sealant

Waxing not only adds a brilliant shine but also acts as a protective barrier against the elements. Apply a high-quality carnauba wax or synthetic sealant to shield the paint from UV rays, bird droppings, and other contaminants. Regular waxing can extend the life of your paint job.

Establishing a Car Detailing Routine

The best way to make sure that your vehicle stays in great shape is to develop routines. Routine oil changes, maintenance and fluid checks, washes, and in-depth car detailing will keep your vehicle running smoothly.

Stay in Touch with Us to Keep Your Vehicle Well Maintained

At Tillema Auto, our service department offers everything from regular oil changes to sizable repairs. We're here to help you keep a well-maintained vehicle that you can trust.

Give us a call at 616-878-5991 to schedule a maintenance appointment or look for your next vehicle!

A Look Inside the New Tillema Auto

At Tillema Auto, we're always looking for new ways to improve our services and our space to better serve our customers. We're very excited about our most recent development - expanding and updating our space! With this 2024 rebuild, we hope to be able to serve more customers while also providing a more comfortable environment for you. Here's a look inside the new Tillema Auto!

A Look Inside the New Tillema Auto

Check out the blueprints for our new space! We're so excited that this remodel will add more square footage, more bays, more outdoor parking spaces, and more comfortable waiting areas for our customers.

These upgrades will allow us to improve efficiency for our customers and provide quicker turnaround times.

An Interview with Sam Tillema

Sam Tillema, Sales and Marketing Manager of Tillema Auto, shared with us some of his own thoughts about why this remodel is important for the company and the clients that they love. Listen in!

Q. Why did you decide to do the rebuild? Can you tell us a little about the vision behind the process?

A. "We decided to rebuild because we are pushing our limits in our current building and we wanted to offer a better experience to our customers.

In our current space we had approximately 3,000 sq. ft. This included a small waiting area, small office space for 3 employees, and 4 hoists. This means that we were only able to fit 4 or maybe 5 vehicles in the shop at any given time.

On top of this, the new shop will be much more efficient. The layout will boast a drive-in and drive out shop with 13 hoists installed!

This will not only increase efficiency but also turn around times for our customers. The new customer area will include waiting areas, a coffee bar, new office spaces for sales, and work areas for both customers and employees.”

Q. When is it scheduled to be completed?

A. “We're planning for February of 2024.”

Q. How will this rebuild allow you to serve your customers better?

A. “At Tillema Auto, our customers are like family. We want to provide them with the most efficient, valuable services possible while also moving quickly in order to get them where they need to go in a timely manner. The additional space and bays will help us to provide a comfortable experience for our customers while they're waiting, as well as allowing us to be more efficient and get vehicles serviced as quickly as possible.”

Q. How much more space will the rebuild provide?

A. “We'll be going from approximately 3,000 sq. ft. to 12,000 sq. ft.!

We'll also have 10 additional bays, so 14 total!”

Q. How can customers celebrate the new space with you?

A. “We'll be having a soft opening when the space is completed, and we plan to host an open-house style party to celebrate the new space as well. You can stay up to date on the celebration by following Tillema Auto on Facebook. Or, stop by and visit us!”


Preserve Your Engine's Health

Scheduling regular oil changes and basic vehicle maintenance are an important way to preserve your engine's health and make sure that your car continues to run smoothly for many years to come. At Tillema Auto, we pride ourselves on being one of the top auto shops for oil changes in the Byron Center area. We're happy to assist you in keeping your car in tip-top shape so that you can depend on it to get you where you need to go.

Why Are Regular Oil Changes Important?

Regular oil changes are essential for the health and longevity of your vehicle's engine. Why? Well, engine oil serves as a lubricant that reduces friction between moving parts. This lubricant prevents excessive wear and tear.

Over time, the oil can become contaminated with dirt, debris, and combustion byproducts, therefore losing its effectiveness. When you neglect to change your oil, it can lead to increased engine friction, overheating, and even engine damage.

Routine oil changes help maintain optimal engine performance, improve fuel efficiency, and extend the lifespan of your vehicle. By sticking to a regular oil change schedule, you're not just ensuring a smoother, more reliable ride, but also protecting your investment in your car and potentially avoiding costly repairs down the road.

How often should you change your oil?

Our recommendation is to have your oil changed every 3,000 miles if you're using semi-synthetic oil. Using full synthetic, you should change your oil approximately every 5,000 miles.

Some manufacturers will suggest longer intervals. However, in order to keep your engine well lubricated and preserve your engine's health to extend its lifetime as long as possible, we recommend sticking with 3,000/5,000 miles (depending on the type of oil you use).

Regular Car Maintenance for Michigan Residents

Although many car maintenance practices are universal for nearly all vehicle owners, there are also certain practices that are especially applicable to Michigan residents. If you live in Michigan, what types of vehicle maintenance should you be getting on a regular basis?

  • Oil changes. Oil changes are one of those tasks that everyone who drives a car needs to do. As we mentioned above, oil changes preserve your engine's health and prevent damage.

  • Tire rotation and care. Everyone needs to make sure that their tires are rotated regularly, have the correct pressure, and are replaced before the tread gets too low. But Michigan residents should also consider switching out your all-season tires for winter tires during the snowy and icy months. This is the best option for maintaining traction on slippery roads.

  • Top off your fluids. It's important to make sure that your fluids - such as engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, and brake fluid - are topped off and clean.

  • Wash your vehicle. The salt from Michigan roads can quickly damage the paint and frame of your vehicle, causing rust and other issues. Washing your vehicle regularly helps to keep it clean from salt and preserve its paint and frame for as long as possible.

What's Included in an Oil Change at Tillema Auto?

At Tillema Auto's service center, we check on your vehicle's vital components during your oil change to make sure that you're road ready. Oil changes include not only changing the oil, but also checking the filter and all of your vehicle's fluid levels. In addition, we'll check your tire pressure and all of the major components of your vehicle.

Schedule Your Oil Change at Tillema Auto!

At Tillema Auto, our service center is standing by, ready to help with your vehicle's needs. We want to help you make sure that your vehicle is in good shape and will get you where you need to go safely. Call us at 616-878-5991 today!

Why Detail Your Vehicle

Why Detail Your Vehicle?

Keeping up with regular car maintenance is more than just oil changes and making sure that your tires are in good shape. Adding regular car washing and basic car detailing to your maintenance list is a great way to make sure that your vehicle stays in good condition and holds its value as long as possible. Why else should you detail your vehicle? Keep reading to find out more about the benefits of regularly detailing your car.

Why Detail Your Vehicle?

Of course, a well-detailed car looks great and is much more enjoyable to drive. Besides this, though, detailing your vehicle also helps it to maintain its value and prolong its lifespan.

Better resale value and prolonged lifespan

Whether you're planning to keep driving your car as long as possible or have plans to sell it as a used vehicle, keeping it clean inside and out will help you get the most value out of your car for the longest amount of time possible. A well-cared for vehicle has both a longer lifespan and a higher resale value.

Prevention of larger issues

In addition, spending the time it takes to detail your car every once in a while can help you catch paint chipping, rust, ripping upholstery, and other small issues before they get worse and become big issues.

Better performance

If your detailing plan (whether professional or DIY) includes checking on mechanical components such as the engine and filters, these precautions can help your car achieve better performance and a smoother ride. They can also alert you of potential problems.

(Basic precautionary maintenance - such as checking filters and fluid, tire pressure, and other major components of your vehicle - is also done during all of our regular oil changes at Tillema Auto.)

Safety

Lastly, another very important benefit of detailing your vehicle is safety. Clean windshields, windows, and mirrors allow you to see your surroundings clearly. Clean headlights give you the brightness you need to see road signs and other important markers in the dark. And even having a clean interior can keep you from having to rummage around looking for important items while driving. Eyes on the road!

Options for Car Detailing

You can either detail your car yourself or get it professionally detailed. Some of the most common, standard detailing services include:

  • Washing and drying

  • Paint treatment

  • Vacuuming carpets, upholstery, and air vents

  • Treating carpets

  • Wiping the dashboard and other internal surfaces

  • Leather cleaning

  • Cleaning wheels and tires

  • Window cleaning

  • Removing odors

Of course, the benefit of getting your car professionally detailed is that you're getting a professional job. On the other hand, if you want to save some cash, you can detail your own vehicle with a collection of a few simple tools and supplies.

How Often Should You Detail Your Car?

How often should you detail your car? While professionals recommend full detailing at least twice a year, it's a good idea to perform more simple tasks (such as washing the outside of your car) once or twice a month. Simple chores like washing help prevent rust and corrosion on your vehicle’s exterior.

Find Your Next Vehicle at Tillema Auto

At Tillema Auto, we understand how important it is to have a reliable, trustworthy vehicle that gets you where you need to go and runs smoothly. If you're on the hunt for your next vehicle, we'd love to help you in your search. Browse our inventory today, or call us at 616-878-5991.

Why Buy a Used Vehicle Used Vs. New. Vs. Lease

When it comes to purchasing a vehicle, you have a few options. Before you get too far, you'll have to decide whether you want to lease, buy used, or buy new. Of course, there are pros and cons to every option. The decision ultimately depends on your specific needs, budget, and preferences. At Tillema Auto, we specialize in used vehicles and believe that buying used gives you excellent bang for your buck. But why buy a used vehicle? Well, here are some of the top benefits.


5 Reasons to Buy a Used Vehicle

The top 5 reasons that buying used gives you great value are:

  1. Cost savings

  2. Depreciation

  3. Variety and choice

  4. Reduced insurance costs

  5. History and reliability

1. Cost savings

Let's start with cost savings, which is the most important factor for most buyers. It makes sense that used vehicles generally cost a lot less than new. Of course, this is largely because they're generally older and have already experienced some wear and tear.

But another major factor here is that new cars lose a significant portion of their value the moment they're driven off the lot. So, even buying a used vehicle that's actually quite new can save you thousands of dollars in comparison to the same "new" vehicle, even if the mileage is similar. Used cars have already absorbed the initial depreciation that all vehicles experience.

Buying used offers significant cost savings, whether you purchase a vehicle that's almost new or a few years old.


2. Depreciation

Next up, depreciation. As we mentioned, new cars can depreciate rapidly, losing value over time. When you buy a used vehicle, you're not as affected by this depreciation, as the previous owner has already absorbed the brunt of it. This can be advantageous if you plan to resell the vehicle in the future, as you won't experience the same steep depreciation curve that new car owners face.

3. Variety and choice

The used car market offers a vast array of choices. Whether you're looking for a specific make and model or you have a limited budget, you're more likely to find the perfect vehicle among used options. Buying used opens up doors to older models, luxury cars, and classic vehicles that may not be available in the new car market.

And if cost is a factor - and let's face it, it usually is - buying used gives you a lot more options than spending the same amount on a new vehicle.


Ready to start on your search? Feel free to check out our inventory! And if we don't have what you're looking for, just let us know, and we'll find it!

4. Reduced insurance costs

Insuring a used car is generally less expensive than insuring a new one. This can translate to substantial savings over the lifetime of your vehicle. Additionally, some used cars may qualify for lower insurance premiums due to their lower market value.

5. History and reliability

Today's vehicles are built to last longer than ever before. This means that a well-maintained used car can provide years of reliable service. Many used vehicles come with comprehensive maintenance records, giving you a clear picture of their history and how they've been cared for. Researching the make and model's reliability and reading user reviews can help you make an informed decision about a used vehicle's durability.

Lease Vs. Buying Used Vs. Buying New

Leasing is another option to consider, especially if you prefer driving a new vehicle every few years. Leasing typically involves lower monthly payments than buying a new car. In addition, you won't have to worry about the long-term costs of ownership. On the downside, leasing comes with mileage restrictions, and you don't build equity on the vehicle. The monthly amount you spend on your lease is money you won't ever see again.

Why Buy a Used Vehicle?

The decision to buy a used vehicle, a new vehicle, or to lease a car ultimately comes down to your specific situation and preferences. While new cars offer the latest features and warranties, they come at a premium price. Leasing offers the benefit of lower monthly payments, but doesn't allow you to build any equity. In a way, buying used gives you the best of both worlds: excellent value, lower insurance costs, and reduced depreciation. Ultimately, the decision is up to you!

At Tillema Auto, we treat our customers like family. Our highest goal for you is to get you a vehicle that is trustworthy and will take care of your day-to-day needs.