When buying a first car for your child, you can never be too detailed in your approach. There are several things you'll want to do before signing the dotted line, and we're going to make sure you (and your child) feel confident about the car you get! Visit our blog, “Top 10 Safety Tips for New Drivers,” to learn even more important tips and tricks!
1. Upgraded Safety Features
When looking for a first car for a teenager, one of the most important details is car safety. Mazda, Mitsubishi, Volkswagen, and Volvo all have top-of-the-line car safety features and award-winning vehicle inspection ratings. Look for safety features including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts, cruise control, smart brake support, and lane departure warning systems. There can't be too many safety features for new drivers!
2. Advanced Technology Support and CarPlay
Most new vehicles come with the CarPlay feature to provide a smarter, safer way to use a smartphone while you drive. Features like CarPlay are the ultimate copilot—able to assist drivers with directions, music, voice-commands, calls, texts, and more so drivers stay safe behind the wheel, all while staying connected with the world. Connect your smartphone through wireless Bluetooth or a simple USB cable and CarPlay will work with voice activation and a large touchscreen pad to assist with anything drivers may need on the road. Learn more.
3. Estimated Gas Mileage, Performance, and Car Warranty
When buying a new vehicle, it can be easy to judge a car by its exterior without looking under the hood or testing its performance. Make a list of all the things you want and need in a vehicle and determine what you will be using your new car for. Are you an urban driver or do you need 4WD and towing capacity? This list will help you and your car dealer determine what vehicle is right for you. When you purchase a new car, most have warranties that will protect you from paying out of pocket for any unexpected vehicle maintenance issues that arise within a number of years or miles. All of these factors should be considered when buying a new car.
4. A Car in Your Set Budget
Dreaming about your first car is always fun, but sometimes, reality hits when the price tag is revealed. It's important to set a car budget before you buy to determine the type of vehicle you can afford to maintain long-term. Plus, buying a new car can be a great way to talk to your child about saving, budgeting, and spending!
5. Car Loan Terms and Purchase Agreements
Before you sign on the dotted line, be sure to ask your trusted car dealer to look over the Full Purchase Agreement to double-check the down payment, monthly payments, and a breakdown of any fees and services included in the deal. Look this over with your child so they are aware of the investment they are making and the loan terms they are agreeing to, including the number of months they will be paying and the interest rate they will be charged over a period of time.
Buying a new car with your child is a great learning opportunity for both children and parents! At Bob Penkhus, we're here to help every step of the way. Contact us today with any questions you have about buying a new car, and we'll make sure your child gets the best vehicle possible with all the safety features, technology support, and car warranties you need to feel confident driving off the lot!
- Your friends at Bob Penkhus