When it’s time for a new ride, the first question many people ask themselves is: new or used? While that fresh-from-the-factory feel is tempting, there are plenty of reasons why buying used (or “new to you”) can be the smarter choice. Save Thousands Right Away New cars lose value the moment you drive them off the lot. In fact, most drop 20–30% in value in the first year alone. With a quality used car, someone else takes that hit — not you. Get More Car for Your Money The same budget that might buy you a brand-new base model could [...]

Buying your first car is exciting — but it can also feel overwhelming. Between financing, test drives, and choosing the right model, it’s a lot to take in. Here are five simple tips to make the process easier. 1. Set a Realistic Budget Include more than just the price of the car — think about insurance, gas, and maintenance. A good rule of thumb is to keep your car payment under 15% of your monthly income. 2. Know Your Credit Score Your credit score can affect your loan terms. Check it ahead of time so there are no surprises. 3. [...]

Take a look around the roads in San Diego, and you’ll see more SUVs than ever. From compact crossovers to full-size family haulers, SUVs have become the go-to choice for drivers. Here’s why they’re so popular — and how to pick the right one for your lifestyle. The Appeal of SUVs Space: SUVs offer more cargo room for groceries, luggage, or surfboards. Versatility: Whether it’s city driving, road trips, or outdoor adventures, SUVs handle it all. Safety: Higher driving position and advanced safety features make many drivers feel more secure. Style: Modern SUVs are sleek and sporty, blending practicality with [...]

You’ve probably heard it a thousand times: “That car’s got high mileage—skip it.” But is mileage really the deal-breaker it’s made out to be? At Miramar Car Center, we’ve helped plenty of smart buyers get great deals on cars with a few extra miles—because mileage is just one part of the story. Here's what you really need to know: 🧩 Mileage vs. Maintenance: What Matters More? A vehicle with 90,000 miles that’s been regularly serviced is often a better buy than one with 40,000 miles that’s been neglected. Look for: Consistent oil changes Brake/rotor replacements Transmission and coolant service Timing [...]

Let’s face it: shopping for a used car can feel overwhelming. With so many makes, models, and price points out there, how do you know you're getting the right one? At Miramar Car Center, we help hundreds of San Diego drivers find the perfect ride—without the stress. Here’s what we recommend when it comes to choosing your next used vehicle. 1. 🚦 Start with Your Needs (Not Wants) Ask yourself: Do I need fuel efficiency or cargo space? How many miles do I drive per week? Am I commuting solo or hauling the whole family? Your lifestyle should guide your [...]

☀️ The Hidden Dangers of Heat on Your Car You may not see it right away, but prolonged heat exposure can slowly wear down your car in several ways: 1. Battery Breakdown Heat accelerates corrosion and can cause battery fluid to evaporate, shortening its life. If your battery is more than 3 years old, get it tested before a heat wave hits. 2. Tire Trouble Hot pavement and underinflated tires are a bad combo. Increased heat expands the air inside your tires, which can lead to blowouts—especially if you’re on a long road trip. 3. Fluids Under Pressure Oil, coolant, [...]