A first car is a rite of passage for many teens–which is why making a decision about what car to get can be such an important decision. Below we outline some major features to consider when deciding what car will be their first.
1. Know Your Teen
First and foremost, it’s important you have a complete and honest understanding of who your teen is and how competent a driver they are. While it’s certainly alright to expect them to improve in the coming years, you want to avoid buying an aspirational car–that is, one you hope will make them a better driver. Instead, be aware of what their potential shortcomings are and try to select a car with those in mind. For example, if your teen is prone to speeding, a sports car may simply exacerbate the issue.
2. Prioritize Safety
No matter how good a driver your teen is, they are–by nature–inexperienced on the road. That’s why it is important, when looking for a first car, to prioritize safety. Besides the protection it will afford, it will also go a long way towards your own peace of mind while your teen is out and about. Consumer Reports, Kelley Blue Book, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration are all good sources of information about which makes and models have the best safety features. But make sure you don’t just look at which cars have the most features–keep an eye on reliability as well.
3. Research, Research, Research
As you start looking at different potential cars, there are many different factors to keep in mind. One of the biggest considerations is whether to get a new or used car. Both options have advantages and disadvantages. For example, older cars tend to be less expensive and cheaper to insure. But newer cars are less likely to break down. Generally speaking, you’ll want to make sure that, as you research, you prioritize your teen’s needs. Is fuel efficiency important because they’ll be going long distances? If you’re opting for a used car, how long is your teen planning to keep the car?
While you’re at it, don’t forget to ask your teen for help researching! Asking your teen to get involved isn’t just a good way to ensure everyone ends up happy with the choice–it can also be a great teaching moment around responsibility.
4. Indulge in Extras
While you’re researching, keep in mind some of the more useful extras for your teen’s future car. Bluetooth, hands-free, and roadside assistance are all additional features that can help ensure teen safety. While it may be tempting to skip some of these to save money, many can help cut down on distracted driving or help if you’re teen has trouble with the car.
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