Buying your first car is an experience that you will never forget as it opens up an incredible amount of freedom and independence. It can be challenging to find the right vehicle, but it is important that you pick the right one because this car will need to tick a few boxes so that you can drive confidently, safely and without spending a fortune.
These are the key areas to consider when buying your first vehicle.
Size & Power
A first car should be small and not particularly powerful. This is because they are much safer to drive, they are cheaper to purchase and run and insurance is more affordable because it is not worth as much money as a larger, more powerful vehicle. This is particularly important for young drivers because insurance can be incredibly expensive as you are deemed a “high-risk” driver by insurance companies so use a car insurance comparison tool to compare your options.
Reliability & Safety
It is also wise to select a car that is both reliable and safe. This should mean that you do not encounter any major issues (which are costly to repair) and you are well protected any time that you are behind the wheel. Modern-day vehicles come with a range of excellent safety features that can stop collisions from occurring or minimising the damage (this can also lower insurance). Services provided by Enigma Telematics cover all aspects of driver behaviour and monitoring to help ensure safety on the roads.
Fuel Efficiency
Running costs can be a huge expense, so new drivers will want to look for ways to save money. One of the most effective ways to do this is to opt for a car which is fuel efficient and economical. In addition to saving money on petrol, you could also benefit from lower road tax when you choose a car with low emissions.
Brand Reputation
Certain brands are well-known for manufacturing vehicles that are perfect for first-time drivers and tick all of the boxes. This includes names like Ford, Peugeot and Vauxhall, all of which have excellent and affordable models that can be found at used car dealerships like AA Cars. Buying second-hand is a great way to lower the cost and the reliability of these brands ensures that they are smart purchases to make.
Your first car may not be the flashiest, but it is one that you always remember fondly. The above are all important factors to consider when shopping for a first car and should ensure that it is an affordable, reliable and safe vehicle that will help you to smoothly and confidently join the roads.
