From clear financial incentives to increased reliability and better buying tools, there’s never been a better time to consider buying a used car or truck. Unsold? Here are three reasons to buy used for your next vehicle.

save money

It’s no secret that buying a used vehicle instead of a new one will save you money, but how much money can you save? Statistics from Kelly Blue Book show that in 2015 Americans spent an average of $33,500 on new vehicles versus just over $20,000 on used ones. That’s an approximate savings of $13,500.

Along with buying new, there is also the depreciation factor. As soon as you pull a new car off the lot, its price drops several thousand dollars. According to Consumer Reports statistics, a new car purchased in today’s market will depreciate to just 54 percent of its original price after just three years on the road. With used vehicles, such depreciation is a rarity, making trade-ins and dealer sales more economically viable.

Get a reliable (and better) vehicle

Going the used route can free up resources and allow you to purchase a better, more reliable vehicle. The reason is simple: When you save on your used car, you can put that extra money toward a better make or model. If you do your homework, the cost should be even, and in the long run, the investment is likely to go in your favor. By choosing a better-made model, your used vehicle will likely outlast the new, less reliable alternative. Plus, with the lifespan of today’s cars at an all time high, even vehicles with several years on the road can be a good investment. According to a 2015 survey by IHS Automotive, the average age of cars on US roads reached 11.5 years, and estimates project a continued increase in service life. For used car buyers, this is good news. The used vehicle is no longer a temporary solution, but a reliable alternative to buying a new one.

Vehicle History Reports and CPO Programs: The Future of Used Car Buying

Today’s Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) programs further ensure that when you buy a used car, you’re getting a dependable car in great condition. With an increasing number of new car drivers choosing to lease their cars rather than buy them, dealerships across the country have substantial CPO inventories to purchase. New car leases typically involve 3-year contracts with restrictions based on condition and mileage, meaning when you trade in your vehicles, they’re still in excellent condition.

Whether you’re buying a CPO model or a car from the regular used car dealer, the prevalence of vehicle history reports through online services makes it easier than ever to find a reliable used vehicle. Enter the car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and collect valuable information about its history and registration. A dealer will be happy to help you with this process. With today’s tools, you can find a high-quality used vehicle faster than ever.