As your son or daughter makes it through their early teenage years, it’s only a matter of time before they start looking for their own set of wheels. You need to be fully engaged when buying your teenager their first car, as it carries its own emotional significance for you son or daughter. Parents always want to find the best vehicle out there for their child. However, they have to take the time to consider all the factors affecting this important purchase.

It is not easy to choose a vehicle, especially when you’re buying it for someone that you really care about. Finding a vehicle that matches with your teenager’s dreams can be both expensive and dangerous. Before searching for your son or daughter’s first car, you should take a look at the parenting information below.

Consider Buying a Used Car

It’s a well known fact that teen drivers lack experience behind the wheel, and can be experimental, and even outright dangerous. If your teen has just passed their driving test or is still improving his or her driving skills, you should consider buying a used car rather than a brand new one. Once you’re sure they are ready to take on the busy highways responibly, you can restart your search for a new car. You’ll obviously want to stay within your budget, but take this opportunity to reward your teenager for doing well in school and coming one step closer to being a mature adult.

Mechanical Reliability

If you are planning on purchasing a brand new car, you can skip this section. However, if you are planning on purchasing a pre-owned vehicle for your teenager, you should have a mechanic inspect it thoroughly prior to purchase. Make sure the engine is technically sound and all other components are fully functional. This is an important step because you want your child to be safe, and you don’t want to have to pay for costly repairs shortly after making your purchase.

Fuel Efficiency Matters

A new car will affect your teen’s monthly spending habits. He or she has to create a new section in their monthly budget, especially if you’re not paying for their gas. Check the combined fuel economy of the vehicle prior to making your final decision. Smaller cars will usually offer higher fuel efficiency, which minimizes monthly operating costs. A modern solution to this issue is a hybrid or full electric car, which can reduce the monthly fuel expenses to nearly zero.

Smaller Cars are More Maneuverable

Teen drivers are not very good with sharp turns and crowded roads, especially if you live in an urbanized area. A small hatchback like a Chevrolet Spark or Ford Fiesta could be preferable. An inexperienced kid can easily watch out for corners and take tighter turns. Moreover, a smaller vehicle can easily navigate road jams and narrow passages.

Double Check Safety Features

There is nothing more important to you than the safety of your child. Teen drivers can sometimes be reckless, so safety and security features should be tested and verified prior to handing over the keys. Most modern vehicles come with multiple active safety features that keep the car from colliding in the first place. However, unfortunate events do ocurr and the reinforced passenger compartment and passive safety features like airbags help keep passengers safe. Explore the available safety features in detail and even go for optional ones, if possible.

Looks Matter Most to Your Teen

For you, the most important aspects of a car should be its fuel consumption, safety features and handling. However, your teen may not give as much value to these considerations. For young ones, looks and styling are what matter the most. Always try to choose a car that has contemporary design and sporty appearance. Even if you’re buying a used car, make sure that the exterior is in good condition and looks new. To surprise your kid, you can even go for a custom job and make some significant modifications to your chosen car.

Discuss Traffic Laws and Responsible Driving

Although we have put this point at the end of this article, it must not be forgotten while you are teaching your teen how to drive. Make sure your teen is aware of all traffic laws before he or she hits the road. You should also advise them not to use their cellphone, play loud music or eat while driving. Tell them about the serious consequences they may face if they do not drive in compliance with these rules.

Kids have a special bond with their first car. You can make it even more special for them by choosing the car of their dreams. With the parenting information above, you’ll be able to please your teenage son or daughter and ensure their safety at the same time.

Author : Courtney Donahue