In 2026, buying a used car represents an attractive choice for many people, thanks to the low cost and wide availability of models, including hybrids, among the most popular for their efficiency and sustainability.
This preference is confirmed by several statistics, including one reported by Gazzetta Motori—the motoring section of Gazzetta dello Sport—which published research conducted by strategic consultancy firm Areté, according to which 80% of the sample preferred second-hand vehicles.
A growing trend, then, but one that raises an important question: are used cars safe? As we'll see, it depends on various factors, but it's certainly an aspect that deserves special attention.
Why safety is essential for those traveling in Sardinia
Road accident data reported by Istat for 2024 show mobility levels similar to pre-pandemic levels and an equally "stable" trend in accidents.
In 2024, 3,583 accidents occurred on the island, resulting in a total of 113 deaths and 4,908 injuries. These numbers are far from the European Union's goal of halving both fatalities and serious injuries by 2030.
Accidents in Sardinia, therefore, occur more frequently than the national average, thanks to a higher mortality rate (3.2 versus 1.7 deaths per 100 accidents).
To understand this, you can read the main stories in our newspaper, both online and in print, where we unfortunately find ourselves covering this topic quite frequently. These accidents often involve young people, as in the case of this fatal crash in the Cagliari area involving two twenty-year-olds.
Safety is a key issue in the automotive industry because a state-of-the-art, efficient, and reliable vehicle inherently increases the likelihood of incurring less serious consequences, both for oneself and for others. This, of course, is only possible if you pay attention to both your driving habits and maintenance.
Used cars: when are they safe?
Buying a car from a private individual offers fewer guarantees in terms of performance—and therefore safety—as well as the condition of the vehicle.
The best thing to do is contact a professional dealer, who can ensure full transparency regarding the condition of the vehicle, thanks to an inspection carried out by competent technicians, as well as the actual number of kilometers traveled.
The dealer should provide an opportunity to meet in person at the dealership, but if they have the appropriate organization and expertise, it may be worthwhile to proceed with the purchase online, where available. In this case, high-quality remote support is essential, ready to answer any questions or concerns.
This last option is particularly attractive for those living in Sardinia, who can access more convenient offers without unpleasant surprises or compromising on safety.
Finally, it's best to opt for models from brands that prioritize reliability and aren't too dated. With these precautions, you can fully maximize the benefits of used cars.
