Factors to Look at When Buying a Minivan

Minivans are great for families who need all the space they can get. Visit Portland car dealerships and check their latest inventory of pre-owned minivans to assess the following:

Capacity

Part of the challenge of minivan shopping is figuring out what needs the vehicle has to address. You need to determine, for example, the typical number of people you expect to transport most of the time. Minivans can usually carry seven or eight people.

If you’re constantly loading your auto with stuff and materials—say, for an out-of-town trip or for delivering items—you need to establish your required storage capacity. This will help the dealer find the most suitable vehicle for you. Many minivans have a maximum weight load in the neighborhood of 1,100 pounds.

Performance

Performance specifications are worth deliberating on as several minivans pack V6 engines, with a mileage between 18 and roughly 20 miles per gallon. Five- or six-speed automatic transmissions also reduce the hassle of shifting. Some minivan models are capable of towing trailers with full load capacities of 3,000 pounds or more.

Age

When dealers, take note that the value of minivans tends to depreciate by 20% within three years after assembly, which gives you an advantage in the search. A quick peek at dealership lots today may show you minivans built in 2011 and 2012, though you just might stumble upon a model that’s eight years old and still in peak condition. Ask whether your choice auto is still covered by manufacturer warranty.