Getting a driver’s license is an exciting moment in any teen’s life. Even more exciting is your first car! With so many choices, however, it’s hard to know which car is the right car for you.
Here’s how you can choose your perfect first car:
Research
Before you get on the topic of new vs. used, you need to research cars. Look everywhere. Look for the car brand on the Internet, and look at all of the models and features each one comes with. Some of the most popular brands for new drivers are Toyota, Ford, Honda, and Chevrolet.
Figure out what you want in a car
Every driver is different. Do you want a car with good gas mileage, an odometer with low miles, a sunroof, or a back up camera? Do you want a compact car, midsize sedan, or pickup truck? Write down the features that are important for you and the ones that you would like. Using your list, it will be easier to narrow down between brands and models.
Visit dealerships
Once you have an idea of what brand you would like, you need to see the car up close. Car dealerships often put their inventory of new and used vehicles online. Talk with your parents and write down the stock numbers of these vehicles so once you arrive at the dealership, they can find them quickly.
Find out the history on the car
If you are purchasing a used car, ask the dealership if they can provide you with the car history. You need to know the miles, how many owners, and if the car has had any wrecks or recalls. If they don’t have the history, walk away. It may be cheaper, but being sure that the car is reliable will save you much more money in the long run.
Test drive
You can find the most beautiful car in the world, but it may not run. Make sure the car is up to your standards by test driving it. Test the brakes, turning signals, and how long it takes for a vehicle to get to a certain speed.