The teenage years are a transitional time between childhood and adulthood. Decisions become more serious and there is more pressure for teens to make mature choices and purchases. Buying a car is stressful enough but making sure it’s adequate for a teenager can be an additional stressor.
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Passing the driving test is just one indicator of a teen’s road readiness. When it comes to buying a for your teenager, chances are your highest priority is protecting him or her on the road. Four of the primary considerations that may influence your buying decision include:
- Safety: Teens typically don’t have the experience to handle every tense situation with other drivers. Often, their experience only includes driving school education or parent-guided sessions. A car’s interior and exterior condition, vehicle history, and other safety features are important concerns for parents and young drivers.
- Reliability: Many salespeople are obligated to reach a quota and will try to sell parents expensive cars for their teens based on gadgets and technology. Don’t be fooled: Ask about previous accidents, maintenance history, and tendencies about the make and model to get an idea of how long the car may last — especially if you’re buying used.
- Overall worth: You might find a car at a bargain price but take into account any repairs and ongoing maintenance costs. Some car brands require more expensive parts or specific dealership repairs. Once you factor in these costs, it may change your perspective on a certain car.
- Insurance cost: Newer models typically cost more to insure because of their higher value. Additionally, male drivers younger than 25 years old are given the highest insurance rates because of risk factors and the likelihood of getting into an accident.
While teenagers might prefer sports cars or a vehicle that will impress their peers, a practical car purchase can help keep them safe and insurance costs low. As car insurance is more expensive for young drivers, an emphasis on safe practices could help prevent accidents and damage. When it comes to buying your teen’s first car, a great place to find affordable, safe vehicles is at a vehicle auction. For more tips on buying and maintaining a car for your teen, check out the accompanying resource.
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