Depending on your pocketbook and sometimes “I just want a NEW one”, you’ll buy an item new or used; sometimes buying a preowned means costly repairs later on. Seven items you shouldn’t buy used:
1- Helmet. the American Academy Of Orthopedic Surgeons recommends buying a new helmet after you’ve been in a crash; after a crash the thick layer of inner foam that absorbs shock can break or tear and fail to protect. You don’t know if that used helmet has been in an accident.
2- Laptop. Again you don’t know the history of the used item; it may have been dropped, had liquid spilled on it or in it; if you want to buy a preowned laptop that’s been refurbished and comes with a warranty, that’s okay.
3- Software. Manufacturers usually put a limit on the number of times a program/application can be loaded. When buying used/preowned software you don’t know the number of times the authorization code has been entered.
4- H.D. Television. With today’s technology, having to replace or fix parts for an H.D. screen could cost as much as the t.v. itself.
5- Tires. The tread may look great, BUT, you don’t know how the tire was maintained by the previous owner,eg/ proper air pressure; also you don’t know how old the tire is (even if it was well maintained)
6- Car Seat. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says while car seats can be reused after minor crashes, the car seat may have damage not visible to the untrained eye.
7- Bedding. Sheets, comforters, pillows, mattresses; you could be taking home mold, mites, bed bugs and bacteria.
