Buying a car is a huge milestone—especially for teenagers. In addition to the excitement, there’s also a lot of pressure. After all, buying a car is a significant investment. Not to mention, there are so many choices! different makes, models, and features. It can all be pretty overwhelming.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide. We’ll walk you through the process, from finding the right car to negotiating the best price. By the end of this guide, you’ll be an expert in all things car-buying. And hopefully, you’ll be behind the wheel of your dream ride in no time!
How to find the right car
The first step in buying a car is finding the right one. You want something stylish but practical, fun to drive but not too expensive. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you start your search:
Budget
It’s essential to have a realistic budget in mind before you start shopping. Remember that other costs, like insurance, gas, and maintenance, are associated with owning a car beyond the purchase price.
Your teen’s needs and wants
Think about what you need from your car. Do you need something big enough to fit your whole family? Or are you looking for something smaller and more fuel-efficient? Maybe you need a four-wheel drive for snowy winters or extra cargo space for road trips.
Of course, you also want to consider your wants. What kind of features are you looking for? Would you like a sunroof or leather seats? Navigation or Bluetooth? Consider what would make your driving experience more enjoyable.
Once you’ve found a few cars that seem like they might be a good fit, it’s time to take them for a test drive!
How to test drive a car?
Testing a car is essential before making such a big purchase. You want to ensure that it handles well and that you’re comfortable behind the wheel. Here are some things to keep in mind during your test drive:
Control and maneuverability
Please pay attention to how the car feels when you’re driving it. Does it accelerate smoothly? brake smoothly? Turn easily? Are the controls easy to use and understand?
Listen for road noise and vibrations
Listen for any strange sounds from the engine or anywhere else while driving. You may also feel abnormal vibrations in the pedals or wheel while driving that you should have checked.
Check blind spots
Make sure you can see well out of all the windows and mirrors while driving—you’ll be doing much of that once you own the car! If you find blindspots while driving, figure out how to best compensate, or look at another model.
Test drive companionship
Have someone else ride along with you so they can help point out anything you might have missed. Have them try the seats in front and back, listen for sounds, check door locks, and keep the second set of eyes on the engine.
Different roads
Drive the car on a bumpy road, a smooth city street, and the highway. Some issues won’t reveal themselves until you’ve taken the car up to a specific speed or driven on particular terrain.
How to negotiate the best price for your car
Whether you’re buying from a dealership or a private seller, it’s essential to negotiate the best possible price for your new ride. Here are some tips on how to do just that:
Start Low
If you’re dealing with a private seller or a dealership, always start low—like 5-10% below their asking price. They will most likely come back with a counteroffer between their asking price and your initial offer, and then you can continue negotiating until you reach an agreement that works for both parties.
Sign on the dotted line
Once you’ve decided on a car, negotiated a sale price, and sorted out financing, it’s time to sign the forms and make your purchase official. Before leaving the lot, you’ll file Department of Motor Vehicle paperwork to transfer the title, set up new tags, and initiate a new insurance policy.
Insuring your teen
The rates for insuring a teen driver can cause sticker shock, but you need to remember that you’re investing in the safety and security of your child and their car. To find the best teen car insurance quotes, work with a company that compiles quotes from several agencies. This will lower rates and help you find the best coverage for their needs.
Milestones
By following these steps, you (or your teen) will be well on your way to becoming a savvy car buyer in no time! Just remember to research ahead of time to know what to expect throughout the process. Happy hunting!