Should You Buy a New or Used Car in Quebec?
Choosing between a new or pre-owned car is often a tough call, since each one brings its own clear set of advantages. To guide your decision, here is a summary of the pros and cons for each option.
Key takeaways
- New cars offer the latest technologies, a full warranty, and a history with no surprises.
- Used cars help you avoid the steepest depreciation and come with a lower purchase price.
- A vehicle's history (CARFAX, mechanical inspection, recalls) is essential when buying pre-owned.
- The right choice mainly depends on your budget, how long you plan to keep it, and your needs.
New car: advantages and drawbacks
Because the automotive industry is in constant evolution, one or two years are often enough to introduce compelling new technology. For tech enthusiasts, it can be very appealing to shop for new vehicles.
In addition, warranties on new vehicles are usually very comprehensive, while used-vehicle warranties are often more limited, with lower mileage caps or shorter terms.
Of course, from a cost perspective, new cars are typically more expensive and face steep depreciation during the first years after purchase.
| Advantages | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Full warranty | Higher purchase price |
| Latest technologies | Rapid depreciation |
| No hidden history | More expensive insurance |
| Favourable financing | Possible delivery delay |
Depreciation in Quebec
In Quebec, general depreciation for new cars is around 20% in the first year, then 10 to 15% per year, depending on the vehicle.
Used car: advantages and drawbacks
Since the biggest curb in depreciation occurs in the first year, used vehicles allow you to avoid that initial drop and pay a better price at purchase.
This lower value also means insurance is often less expensive for a pre-owned vehicle.
However, buying used can be more complex. There is always a risk of hidden defects when dealing with a private seller, so a complete history check is needed to make sure you have found the right vehicle.
This goes along with the possibility of unpleasant surprises and more limited warranties, which increases the need for vigilance at purchase.
| Advantages | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Lower price | Limited warranty |
| Slower depreciation | Risk of hidden wear |
| Often cheaper insurance | Higher financing rates |
| Wide immediate selection | History to verify |
Why researching the vehicle history matters
Before buying a used car, it is particularly important to review its history and make sure a pre-purchase inspection is completed.
The simplest and most effective way to learn what you need to know about a car's past is to check the CARFAX report, which includes:
- Accident and claim history
- Service and repair records
- Liens and security interests
- Outstanding safety recalls
Ownership cost comparison in Quebec
As mentioned earlier, even though used vehicles have a lower purchase price and often cheaper insurance, several factors can change their true cost of ownership.
Generally, interest rates on financing for pre-owned cars are higher, which narrows the price difference.
Also consider that a used vehicle will often not last as long as a new car, since it already has some wear and accumulated mileage.
Different types of vehicles are more or less durable. Electric vehicles, for example, are known to require less maintenance over the long term.
| Factors to consider | New | Used |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase price | Higher | More affordable |
| Insurance cost | Generally higher | Often lower |
| Depreciation | Faster at the beginning | More stable |
| Financing rates | Often more favourable | Generally higher |
| Warranty | Full manufacturer coverage | Limited or expired |
| Mechanical risk | Very low | Variable based on maintenance |
Special case: hybrid and electric vehicles
Pre-owned hybrid and electric vehicles must be considered separately.
In addition to the Roulez vert program, which in 2026 offers an incentive of up to $2,000 toward the cost of an electric car in Quebec, the battery warranty on these cars is very important, since it is the component most likely to fail.
However, because some models depreciate even faster than their gasoline counterparts, it is often possible to find an even better price on the pre-owned market.
In general, it is still advantageous to buy a hybrid or electric model new because the battery warranty matters a great deal, and provincial incentives reduce the price gap between new and used versions.
When does a new car make sense?
If you plan to keep your car for a long time (7 years or more), choosing a new car and benefiting from the full warranty is appealing.
This warranty is also important if you drive a lot, since the mileage covered by used-car warranties is often very limited.
Finally, those who like to enjoy the latest technologies will always be better served with a new car.
When should you prefer a used car?
Used cars are an excellent option for those with a tighter budget, such as students.
They are also a great choice for a second vehicle or a vehicle you know will not rack up much mileage.
In all cases, when browsing pre-owned vehicle inventories, it is always important to look for models from reliable brands, like Chevrolet.
New or used, the right choice depends on your profile
For long-term ownership, a new car is usually the best choice.
Conversely, for a car you do not plan to keep very long or if you have a limited budget, a used vehicle is a solid option.
No matter your choice, it is always helpful to follow this pre-purchase checklist:
- Structured test drive
- Review the CARFAX report
- Independent mechanical inspection
- Check with the RDPRM
- Compare financing rates
- Calculate the total 5-year cost
To browse a wide inventory of new or used Chevrolet vehicles, drop by to see us at Repentigny Chevrolet, your dealership near Montreal and Lachenaie.
FAQ
Is a new car always more expensive in the long run?
Not necessarily. Although it costs more upon purchase, a new car can cost less over time thanks to a better warranty, fewer repairs, and often more favourable financing rates.
What is the depreciation for a new car in Quebec?
On average, a new car loses about 20% of its value in the first year, then between 10 and 15% per year, depending on the model, the brand, and market demand.
What are the risks when buying a used car?
The main risk is the presence of hidden defects or a history of accidents. It is recommended to check a CARFAX report and have an independent mechanical inspection completed.
Are used electric cars a good choice?
Yes, especially if the battery is still under warranty. Since some models depreciate quickly, it is possible to find used electric vehicles at very competitive prices.
Should you always take a test drive before buying a car?
Yes. A test drive lets you assess the vehicle's behaviour, unusual noises, and overall comfort. This is essential before making any purchase decision.
Data sources:
Comment calculer la dépréciation d’un véhicule | Guide de l’auto
