When you’re looking to purchase a used car, there are many different aspects to consider, including the initial price as well as a vehicle’s safety and reliability, but perhaps one of the most important elements of having a car is the long-term cost of ownership. After you shell out the dough to buy your car, you won’t stop spending money on your purchase. Everything from fueling up to getting regular maintenance and insuring your vehicle will add up over time, and some models cost more to own than others. For instance, a large SUV like a GMC Terrain will likely use more gas and cost more to fill at the pump than a smaller model like a Honda Civic.

You can research the cost of ownership of certain vehicles online or by asking people who own them about the expenses. In addition to fuel consumption, you will want to find out how frequently a particular model needs to be serviced, whether it is known for needing repairs or part replacements regularly, and how expensive it is to insure. A sporty Porsche 911 is going to have a higher insurance premium than an entry-level sedan like a Ford Fiesta. Some brands and models are known to break down more frequently than others that have a reputation for being reliable.

You should factor long-term costs into your decision before purchasing a used car, especially if a vehicle is priced well below the average selling price for that model. This could indicate it is in less-than-ideal condition, so the money you save up front would be made up by the repairs you’ll need to pay for down the line.

When you have done your research, you can head to New Jersey State Auto Auction to find the vehicle you desire. The dealer carries a wide selection of makes and models, and every car on the lot is CARFAX certified, so you know you’ll be getting behind the wheel of a reliable ride.