Auto Experts: 5 Features Retirees Should Look for in a Used Car
Written by
Kathryn Jackson
Edited by
Cory Dudak
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When it comes to retirees in the market for a used car, it’s important to prioritize comfort, safety, reliability and ease of use. As such, it’s best to take time to browse and test drive models that have the preferred features in mind. Investigate cars with solid reputations for long-term durability, and check the car’s maintenance history to ensure it was cared for properly.
To find out what specific features retirees should look for in a used car, GOBankingRates interviewed a nationally recognized automotive expert and founder of the Car Coach Reports Lauren Fix. Here are some key features retirees should consider when deciding on a used car.
Comfortable and Accessible Seating
When asked what retirees should pay close attention to as far as seating in a used car, Fix suggested that it is critical in terms of comfort, and to “look for lumbar seats for driver and passenger.” She also suggested heated and vented seats are best to deliver year-round comfort, and strongly recommended getting a power-adjustable driver’s seat.
Last, but not least, Fix said getting in and out of the vehicle is a top priority for seniors: “That means wide door openings and car seats are just below hip level, or as close to it as possible.” Another thing to keep in mind is that vehicles with higher ground clearance, such as crossovers or smaller SUVs, can be easier to get in and out of when compared to sedans, according to Consumer Reports.
Good Visibility
Retirees should select vehicles with good visibility, both in terms of the driver’s seat position and size of windows. Also, avoid cars with small rear windows, while considering vehicles with rearview cameras or parking sensors for added convenience and safety.
Fix explained: “80% of your driving decisions are based on visibility. Being able to see out of the windshield, with plenty of glass surrounding you is your best bet. Adjustable seats should be checked to make sure you can adjust the settings”
In addition, Fix suggested LED exterior lighting — such as headlights with auto on-off, tail lights and daytime running lights — provide better illumination for visibility.
Advanced Safety Features
Safety can become more important with age, so retirees should prioritize used cars with features like anti-lock brakes, traction control, airbags and stability control. Fix also recommended looking for NHTSA Driver Assistance Technologies that are more advanced, such as rearview or back-up cameras, parking assist and parking sensors, forward collision warnings, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring or cameras and lane keeping assist systems.
Retirees should check with their insurance company to see if it offers lower insurance rates due to having advanced safety features.
Low Maintenance Costs
Used cars often require more maintenance than new cars, CNBC highlighted. Fix proposed looking for vehicles that have low maintenance costs and might include extra service benefits to minimize expenses.
Good Fuel Economy
Retirees living on a fixed income will likely prefer used vehicles that are easy on their wallets when it comes to fueling up. Fix recommended looking at fuel economy numbers to help save at the pump and keep costs down. You can do so by visiting the FuelEconomy.gov and entering some basic information about your vehicle.
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