How to pick the perfect first car for your teenager?
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Getting their driver’s license is an exciting milestone for your teen. You’re probably excited, too. Most parents also worry about their new teen drivers. That’s understandable. You probably have questions when it comes to buying their first vehicle because you want to choose one that is as safe as possible for your new driver. Follow these tips for how to pick the perfect first car for your teenager, and you’ll feel more secure when you set out to make your purchase.
Safety
Safety is probably your top priority when it comes to purchasing a car for your teen. There are a number of features to look for that can provide added security while on the road. Things such as electronic stability control, blindspot monitoring, and other technological aids can make a big difference in improving the driving experience and helping your teen to maintain awareness. There are also more passive design features like side-impact airbags and crumple zones that can make accidents less damaging.
You may also feel that you’re choosing the best car for your teen when you check the vehicle’s safety rating from top industry organizations such as the National Highway Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway safety. These groups are dedicated to testing vehicles and helping to lessen losses due to vehicle accidents.
Size
Size can play a role when it comes to vehicle safety and maneuverability. Larger and heavier models can be a good choice due to their sturdiness. They have the capability to provide better protection in the event of a crash. However, some larger vehicles like SUVs can be top-heavy, making them more prone to rolling. Larger vehicles might also be more difficult to maneuver or can seem intimidating to new drivers.
Smaller vehicles have frequently not scored as well on industry crash tests. Choosing one with extra safety features may offer your teen driver added protection. Your young driver may feel more comfortable driving a car that’s easier to maneuver.
If you’re looking for something in the middle, consider a compact SUV. These vehicles give you the durability and added protection of their larger counterparts, while also being comfortable to drive. In addition, they sit higher, allowing a better view for some drivers. Ultimately, it will come down to a compromise between driver comfort and proven vehicle safety performance.
Affordability
Price is an important factor for most car buyers. This can be particularly true when adding another vehicle to a multi-vehicle household. In addition, auto insurance rates for young drivers can be quite costly. Therefore, it makes sense to look for something that is within your budget and that will be appealing to your insurance company. Something like a sports car is typically seen as higher-risk, leading to higher insurance premiums.
Buying used makes sense for many. You can find many qualities used cars with proven records for safety, reliability, and value. Searching for used cars near Rapid City is definitely a wise move when it comes to affordability. You’ll also want to consider factors such as fuel efficiency and durability when looking at the overall cost.
Reliability
Reliability is definitely a factor that plays into affordability. You don’t want the hassle or cost of a vehicle that ends up in the shop on a regular basis. You can look for reliability ratings in publications like Consumer Reports in order to get an idea of which vehicles are known to perform well. Vehicle history reports can also provide a good deal of information on the particular car you are considering.
Do some research. Some vehicles are known to have particular quirks or issues. Obtaining a bit of information ahead of time can provide you with tremendous peace of mind. It can also save you a lot of money, time, and hassle in the future. One other way to increase your buying confidence may be to look for a certified pre-owned vehicle. These models usually have higher inspection standards for quality and may come with an extended warranty.
Buying your teenager’s first car can seem overwhelming. Following these tips will give you a strong start and provide you with the information and confidence you need to make the best choice for your family.