Vehicles to Avoid in Retirement
When purchasing a vehicle, retirees need to be mindful of the type of car they choose, as some models can be impractical and costly. Experts have identified several categories of vehicles that retirees should avoid.
Cars With High Ground Clearance
Lifted trucks and large SUVs are not ideal for retirees due to their difficulty in getting in and out of the vehicle. According to Alan Gelfand, owner of German Car Depot, “These cars are amazingly difficult to get in and out of, which is not ideal for people in retirement age.” Erin Kemp, a consumer advocate for Bumper, notes that these vehicles can also be more expensive than others.
Luxury Vehicles
Gelfand advises against exotic or very expensive cars, citing costly maintenance due to specialized parts. Angel Reyes, managing partner at Angel Reyes & Associates, warns that these vehicles can be dangerous for seniors due to their excessive power and sharp handling.
Cars With Excessive Maintenance
Some cars require more upkeep than others, which can be pricey. Lauren Fix, sector analyst and industry expert at The Car Coach, recommends avoiding vehicles with high maintenance issues, such as plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles.
Cars With High Insurance Costs
Fix suggests shopping for a car with low insurance costs to help retirees save money. Luxury cars and new cars tend to have higher insurance costs.
Cars With Low Safety Ratings
Fix emphasizes the importance of checking a vehicle’s safety ratings before purchase. Reyes agrees, stating that safety should be the top priority when choosing a vehicle, not just for the retiree but for everyone on the road.
By avoiding these types of vehicles, retirees can make a more informed decision when purchasing a car, prioritizing practicality, affordability, and safety.
