What to Look for When Buying Your Teen Their First Car
by Jennifer Thayer
One of the biggest thrills your teen will experience is not only receiving their driver’s license, but being told that he or she is getting a car. While a new auto may not be a part of your budget, you can get a great deal on a used car that is not only safe for your teen to drive, but won’t break the bank either.
Talking to Your Teen About Vehicle Safety
Even before you go out with your teen to look at vehicles, you need to sit down with him or her and talk about the responsibility involved in becoming a driver. Parents have the greatest influence on their teen’s behavior, so it’s best to be honest and upfront about what it takes to be a safe driver. Safety tips include:
- Keep cell phone turned off or out of reach
- Don’t text while driving
- Avoid distractions
- Obey the speed limit
- Practice defensive driving
- Drive alone or with an adult
- Make sure your headlights are on
- Always be aware of your surroundings
Your teen should also know where the car’s registration and insurance information is kept and what to do in case of an emergency such as a break down or accident. Remind your teen that safety should always come first and that it’s better to be late than to speed or be reckless when traveling to a location.
Shopping for a Car
Used cars make great starter vehicles for teens. They have improved reliability, and although they don’t carry the same warranties as new cars, some manufacturers may offer longer-term warranties for certified pre-owned vehicles. Used cars are also less expensive than new cars, sometimes up to 40 percent for vehicles that are only three years old.
Also, insurance rates on used cars are significantly less than on new vehicles because their value and theft risk are lower. Make sure you and your teen are straight on who will pay for the vehicle’s expenses including gas, maintenance, car payment and insurance.
You will want to research used cars before even stepping foot on a lot. Websites such as Kelley Blue Book can provide a myriad of information such as used car reviews, prices, vehicle history and safety ratings. Narrow down your search and then take a trip to a trusted car dealership.
Bring your teen along for any test drive so both of you can get a good feel for the car. Don’t just cruise down the street; take the car for a good drive on the highway, riding those curves and grades. Also, consider having a third party, such as a mechanic, to come and take a look.
As for the car’s appearance, you get what you pay for. If you want a vehicle that is perfect inside and out, you will pay a little more. A few dings and scratches are OK and can help negotiate a lower price.
Keeping an Eye on Your Teen Driver
Thankfully, today’s technology allows parents to keep close tabs on their teen drivers. Car tracking devices can be installed on your teen’s cell phone to monitor his or her location or estimated driving speed.
Monitoring cameras can also be placed within the vehicle to record and notify the parents and teen of risky events or maneuvers. Some newer vehicles are also programmed to set driving speeds, monitor curfews, block incoming phone calls and texts and limit the volume of the radio.
Educate yourself with the pros and cons of buying a used car and gather facts on how to be a safe driver so the next time your teen asks you about buying them a car, you won’t feel like you were broadsided.
About the Author: Jennifer Thayer is a technology writer from Southern California. She is passionate about exploring new ways technology can be used to make day-to-day tasks easier. Follow her on Twitter.
