​​Paying Too Much for a Vehicle? There is a Solution​ 

You’re ready for a new vehicle – something that will last for the years ahead. As soon as you spot the one you want at a new car showroom, but your heart sinks after checking out the sticker on the window. You may have experienced sticker shock.  

This has become a challenge for many vehicle customers. It is not uncommon for consumers to reach the finance and insurance office at any given dealership and find that their payment will be $1,000 a month – or more.  

The $ 1,000-a-month vehicle payment is now a serious reality. According to Edmunds.com, “nearly 20% of new car loans have monthly payments exceeding $1,000.” Also, “more than 22% of borrowers opted for 84-month loans in the second quarter of 2025, representing a new high.” Lastly, “these trends, along with high interest rates and lower downpayments, resulted in a record-high finance average of $42,388.” 

Why is this happening? Edmunds.com explains that “part of [the “affordability crisis”] is automakers adjusting prices to compensate for tariffs, but it is also due to new-car shoppers trying to do more with less. In these cases, however, a bigger or fully loaded car now means more money later and less equity.” 

The truth is that longer-term auto loans can be more expensive. That is rooted in the cost of financing, which adds interest to the loan principal. Longer loans will cost more in interest, compounded by the number of months the loan is outstanding. It may also increase the risk of negative equity if you trade in your vehicle before the end of the loan term. The upshot of a longer term is a lower monthly payment than the standard-issue 48- or 60-month loan.  

Also, consumer demand has shifted toward more luxurious vehicles or mainstream models with a higher level of standard features. Edmunds.com states that consumers are “willing to pay more later for the privilege of now. For example, the difference between the base price of a vehicle and the higher trim model that shoppers actually bought was a difference of about $11,500 — 33% over the vehicle’s starting price.” 

If that concerns you, there is a solution. Alderman Automotive offers a great selection of affordable pre-owned vehicles. Trucks, sedans, SUVs, minivans…everything you can think of. All of these vehicles will fit perfectly into your lifestyle and budget. You will find the equipment level of the vehicles in stock is extensive.  

Plus, we make sure that everything works as intended by the factory before you take it on a test drive. For more peace of mind, we offer a CARFAX report for you to review before you buy.  

If you are looking for a great, more affordable vehicle, contact us at Alderman Automotive. Let us find the right vehicle that perfectly fits your budget and lifestyle!