One of the most anticipated moments in a teen’s life is the purchase of their first car. As a parent, you’re on the fence between coddling them safely and letting them freely embrace this step into adulthood. To help ease the transition and ensure your teen is well informed about the responsibilities and expectations of owning a car, check out these five tips for your teen driver.
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Consider Your Needs
What need does the car serve? Your teen’s needs will determine the type of car they purchase and can make the difference between a spacious gas guzzler and a small economy car.
- Is the car needed for school, work, or both?
- Do you live in an area with good public transportation or a rural area with limited transportation options?
- Do you need a car to carry your athletic equipment or food deliveries?
- Is there adequate parking in your neighborhood and places you visit?
Answering these questions can help your teen choose a vehicle that not only meets their needs but also works with the limitations and circumstances in their environment.
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Review Your Finances
In addition to the initial cost of the car, there are regular costs associated with owning a car, including gas, tolls and parking fees, car loan payments, and insurance. It’s important that your teen is aware and prepared for these expenses. How much can your teen afford to spend? Will you be assisting with some of the costs?
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Keep Safety at the Forefront
While image is everything for your teen, safety is paramount. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides important information on driving safety for your teenage driver. Encourage your teen to explore the safety features of the vehicles of choice, making sure the car has airbags, anti-lock brakes, and other safety features.
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Conduct Adequate Research
With your needs, finances, and safety requirements in mind, your teen is ready to conduct some research to locate the most suitable car. There is a wealth of information available online via various car review sites, such as car manufacturer websites, and Goldstein Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM’s Model Research Page. Research gives your teen the ability to see all the information up front before visiting the dealership or seller.
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Test Drive and Inspect the Vehicle Before Purchase
To really get a feel for a vehicle, your teen should take it for a test drive. Use the vehicle in conditions that you normally do, such as driving on the highway from work to home, taking that sharp curve on the shortcut to school. As with any vehicle, your teen should check it over thoroughly before buying. This can be done via a pre-inspection from the dealership, a Carfax check, or through an ASE-certified mechanic that you trust.
Looking for a new, used, or certified pre-owned Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, or Ram vehicle for your teen in the Albany area? Goldstein CDJR in Latham, New York, has you covered with a full-service dealership including a large inventory, on-site service center, and financing options available.
