BHPins: Happy to find the right thread and discussion at the right time.
From 2006 I have been happily using a used car (Maruti Zen 2001 Aug LX model) in stock condition and I feel that the car had been (and have been) maintained very well. It was my first car and I really share some happy moments with her and also she hasnt let us down not even once in all the past 4 years.
On the recent christmas holidays, unfortunately, I was feeling the preassure of upgradation as the car was running out of space inside and people in the back had to share the space with the luggage (thanks to the new member in my family, cute little Abhi) and I really felt terribly uncomfortable about the ride. From that moment started searching for a used car (Sedans preferably SX4/Baleno [due to the excellent maruti service experience and the time I share with Suraksha Car Care Centre in Bangalore - I even called Lokesh - my friend in Suraksha - on my vacation to let me know if such a car comes in his vicinity] or a Honda City (NHC / ZX variants).
Came back from holidays and started searching on internet, dealers, honda shorooms for the one, but wasnt happy about any (poorly maintened cars - all of them - and asking price was much high). Finally found one and booked it, and as far as I have seen her, she is just in her showroom condition with 14 K on the odo, ZX Variant, 2006 Dec model, Single Owner - directly from the owner, Scratchlessly maintained, using Shell Petrol and running on synthetic oil, with sony music system, key less entry and reverse camera and with the price I had finally came to terms (initial figure in mind for a used car and what I paid for this one had huge difference - BTW). I have paid half the amount and just waiting for the process to be over and take her home!
Today happened to be the day when I have to part with my Zen Lady as well :-( and I managed to get a descent deal (Thanks to Lokesh at Suraksha Car Care - the car has been recommended to the relative of the centre in charge). I feel good about that aspect and also feel that a descent deal has been made. Only that from today till I take my new ride home, I am 'CARLESS'!!
Coming to the topic of discussion - I certainly agree with the points discussed about typical upgradation between 3 to 5 years, the depreciation related 'loss' we incur, and the EMI related lock periods and the commitments aspects with that to the banks. In my opinions, few people who are benefitted with the 'upgradation' are New Car / Used Car dealers, Banks, Car Accessory shops, and Lease Firms. If we can avoid any or all of them, then the impact of this movement and the loss the upgradation brings to the table could be reduced. Also, in my opinion, if the movement is towards a 'used car' that would also reduce the impact to a larger extent - only that we have to wait for the right moment and the right car for you!
In my case, my initial car and the latest NHC ZX does not carry any EMI with me, and did not come through dealers. I feel that hence the upgradation related impact with me is minimal compared to the case if I had upgraded to a 'NEW CAR in C-SEGMENT or ANY NEW CAR'
Thanks and Regards,
narayanang76 |