Used Car, Truck and SUV Inventory

Used Cars for sale in Albuquerque, NM

Purchasing a used vehicle is a smart way to save money while getting a car that meets your needs and preferences. To help you get started, our team at Chalmers Ford has prepared this guide on used cars for sale in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Reasons To Buy a Used Car in Albuquerque

There are many reasons to consider purchasing a used car from a local dealership. The first is convenience — you can easily visit dealerships that sell quality preowned vehicles to find the right make and model. This makes car shopping hassle-free and time-efficient. Buying locally also contributes to the local economy, helping your community thrive. Below are some reasons why buying a used vehicle makes sense.

Cost Savings With Preowned Vehicles

A pre-owned vehicle is generally less expensive than a comparable brand-new model. For instance, a certified pre-owned (CPO) 2024 Ford F-150 Tremor in our inventory costs around $64,000. A new one with the same model year and trim level would cost more than $75,000. That's more than $10,000 in savings for the same features. The down payment and loan payments for a used vehicle are also potentially lower than those for a new model. 

The cost of ownership is lower with a used car because you're likely to pay less for parts and repairs. You can also save on insurance, as insuring a new vehicle is often more expensive due to its higher value.

Economic Advantages: Depreciation Rates and Value Retention

According to Kelley Blue Book, the value of many new cars typically drops by 20% in the first year. This can significantly reduce their resale value. In contrast, a used vehicle retains its value longer because it has already experienced this hit. With proper maintenance and care, you may be able to recoup much of your investment when you sell your used car in the future.

Environmental Benefits of Purchasing Used

Buying a used vehicle instead of a new one is a good way to reduce your carbon footprint. Manufacturing a car takes a lot of energy and resources. Extracting, processing, and transporting essential raw materials such as petroleum and iron ore has a significant impact on the environment. Choosing a used vehicle means you're contributing to a circular economy, reducing waste and pollution.

Diverse Inventory Features To Consider

Finding the right used vehicle in a large selection of Albuquerque used cars is easy. Take time to determine the features you need and want before you start shopping. Browse our online inventory of used vehicles and narrow down your choices using our filters. Aside from make, model, year, and price range, you can also choose your preferences for these features:

• Drivetrain: Choose four- or all-wheel drive for off-road capability, or opt for front- or rear-wheel drive if you want a more efficient vehicle.
• Transmission: A vehicle with a manual transmission is more economical, but automatic transmissions and continuously variable transmissions are easier to use.
• Body style: Hatchbacks and sedans are fuel-efficient and can navigate city streets with ease. SUVs are family-friendly and spacious, while trucks are ideal for towing and hauling.
• Interior and exterior colors: Your options will depend on your chosen make and model. You may have to pay more for certain colors and accents.
• Fuel economy: The most efficient cars are hybrids and electric vehicles. For gas-powered models, sedans and hatchbacks typically offer better fuel economy than SUVs and pickups.
• Engine specifications: Your choices vary by make and model, but engines with more cylinders, such as V-6s and V-8s, are typically more powerful than four-cylinder engines. 

Common Red Flags To Watch Out For

Browsing an online inventory may not be enough to make the right decision. We encourage you to visit your local dealership and ask for your preferred vehicle's history report. This provides a comprehensive look into its ownership, service, and accident history. 

It's also a good idea to inspect each car you're interested in and take it for a test drive. Some red flags to watch out for include misaligned panels, fluid leaks, underbody dents, spongy brakes, and worn-out shocks and struts. Also, check for signs of flood damage, such as rust, unusual odors, and a discolored and moist cabin. 

Financing Your Used Car Purchase

You can purchase a used car outright or take advantage of financing options that reputable used car dealerships in Albuquerque offer. At Chalmers Ford, we consider our customers' unique circumstances to come up with personalized financing solutions. We work with local banks in New Mexico to provide competitive rates and flexible loan terms. Our finance experts can also help you secure a loan with Ford Credit. And to make your purchase even more affordable, we have used car specials that we update regularly.

Maintenance and Warranties for Used Cars

Regular maintenance can keep your used car in top condition, extend its life span, and retain its value. It can also help you avoid costly repairs that may not be covered by the vehicle's warranty. While you can perform basic maintenance, we recommend taking your vehicle to reputable full-service car dealerships such as Chalmers Ford. Our factory-trained technicians can perform routine maintenance, such as oil changes, tire alignments, and battery replacements, properly and efficiently.

While many used cars come with warranties, these aren't usually as comprehensive as those for new vehicles. For excellent coverage, consider purchasing a CPO Ford. A Gold Certified used Ford comes with a 12-month/12,000-mile Comprehensive Limited Warranty and a seven-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty. Contact us to learn more about warranty and insurance options for your used vehicle.

Browse Our Used Cars for Sale at Chalmers Ford in Rio Rancho, New Mexico

A used vehicle is a sensible choice because of its cost-effectiveness, eco-friendliness, and low depreciation. To find the right used car, choose a reputable dealer such as Chalmers Ford in Rio Rancho. Determine the make, model, price range, and features you want, and then filter our online inventory to see only the vehicles that meet your criteria. Schedule a test-drive to experience your preferred models for yourself, then work with our sales and finance teams to finalize the deal. Contact us today, and we'll be happy to help you make an informed used car purchase.