Understanding how to choose the best car for first-time drivers helps minimize the worry of putting your new driver behind the wheel and out on the road.
It’s an exciting time when someone becomes a new driver. Eventually, they need their own set of wheels to get them where they need to go. In this article, we’ll discuss how to choose the best car for first-time drivers. Starting off with the right car creates a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Every driver has different needs and it’s essential to understand how the new car serves those needs. For many drivers, a vehicle is needed for transportation to school, work, and for enjoyment when getting out to socialize. Consider who’s riding along with the new driver. Will they have passengers often or mainly drive by themselves? Siblings may need rides, or if your new driver is a social bug, they may often have a car full of friends. Be clear on the purpose of the new car and who will be in it. This helps when determining the size needed, how many miles are put on each year, gas mileage, and budget.
The budget is the most important part when choosing the best car for first-time drivers. It basically determines the number of choices. Decide who’s paying for the car and then write down all their expenses. Doing so helps you to see how much can go toward the car. Don’t forget to include car insurance and gas cost in the budget. Cars all have different insurance rates (the age and make of the car play a large role in this cost) and gas mileage, and it affects the total budget. Even if it’s only an estimate for each, it’s helpful.
There are two options when choosing a new car: lease or buy. Let’s look at how each option works.
When leasing a car, you’re the lessee and the car company leasing the car to you is the lessor. As the lessee, you are basically renting the car from a dealership or other car company. There is usually an amount paid upfront as a down payment, and monthly payments are then established. Other terms are agreed upon, such as how many miles are allowed and who will pay for maintenance and repair needs. Some maintenance is part of the deal and a cost savings for the one leasing, but most maintenance is out of pocket for the lessee. At the end of the lease (the number of years determined), most lessees have an opportunity to choose to buy the leased car and become the owner, or return it and end the lease and possibly lease something new. Be careful with leases and their hidden fees. A lease works well when buying isn’t an option and miles put on each year are low. However, if you go over the allotted miles or have any other unforeseen issues, a lease can get expensive. If all goes well, they’re a great way to drive a brand-new car.
The most common way to get a car for your first-time driver is through a purchase online, at a dealership, or through a for sale by owner. There are a few benefits to purchasing instead of leasing a car:
Having a clear picture of the budget and daily needs help when deciding between a lease or purchase.
You or your new driver may have a certain vehicle in mind for their first car. If so, it isn’t a bad idea to check out cars similar to the one they’re interested in. For example, if you’re considering a specific four-door sedan, are there other models that have the same features so you can compare price and gas mileage? Shop around before deciding. Compare costs between new and used. Cars depreciate quickly, and sometimes, a used car with low miles is the best option. If you or the new driver are good mechanics, then a salvaged car is an excellent choice to save money and sharpen auto mechanic skills.
Don’t purchase or lease without a test drive, and don’t feel bad about test driving plenty of options before deciding. With a first-time driver, ride along with them, so they know what to look for during a test. Here’s a list of things to keep an eye on during a test drive:
Last but not least, after searching, testing, and determining what you can afford and whether or not you should lease or buy, it’s time to choose the car. If you’ve taken all the above steps, you’ll make the right choice for your first-time driver. In conclusion, keep your first-time driver safe with a reliable vehicle at an affordable price. What matters most is protecting them on the road. At AE of Miami, we offer repairable salvage cars for sale. These types of cars are a great option for first-time drivers, restoration hobbyists, and anyone looking for a great deal on a car. With plenty to choose from, including clean title and salvaged title vehicles, there’s something for everyone. Contact AE of Miami today or shop our inventory online for excellent salvage car options.
