Three Things You Should Know When Helping Your Teen Buy Their First Car

Buying your teen’s first car is a significant milestone – both exciting and nerve-wracking. As a parent, you want to ensure they drive a car that is safe, reliable, and budget-friendly. However, with so many options available, navigating the car market can feel overwhelming. To help you through the process, we’ve outlined three key things you should consider when assisting your child in choosing their first car.

Safety First

When choosing a vehicle for your teen, safety should be the number one priority. Many new drivers gravitate toward smaller cars because they seem easier to handle, but smaller doesn’t always mean safer.

According to RACV’s General Manager of Motoring, Jeff Ames, the best way to assess a vehicle’s safety is by checking safety ratings rather than relying on size alone. “RACV recommends comparing current market vehicles’ safety ratings as they may surprise you. The ANCAP website provides great insight into the safety and quality of the vehicle you, or your teen, are considering,” Ames says.

When visiting Tynan Motors, you can speak to their knowledgeable team about the safest vehicles available, whether new or pre-owned. They stock a variety of cars that meet the highest ANCAP safety ratings, giving you peace of mind when selecting a car for your young driver.

Be Informed

Buying a first car is a huge investment, and for many families, a second-hand vehicle is the most practical and affordable option. However, before committing to a used car, it’s crucial to do your research to ensure the vehicle is in good condition and has a clean history.

“Second-hand vehicles are popular for learner drivers due to their affordability compared to their brand-new counterparts and while second-hand can be more appealing, buyers should be as informed as possible before purchasing,” Ames advises.

A great way to do this is by obtaining a Vehicle Report that details the car’s registration history, roadworthiness, outstanding finance, and whether it has ever been written off or stolen. Tynan Motors offers a wide selection of quality pre-owned vehicles that undergo rigorous checks, ensuring they meet high standards of reliability and roadworthiness.

Consider the Extras

The purchase price isn’t the only cost involved in owning a car. Other expenses such as fuel, insurance, servicing, and roadside assistance should be factored into the decision-making process.

“RACV recommends checking that the appropriate car insurance is in place for the driver. If the vehicle is insured in the parents’ name and the teenager ends up in a crash while driving, the insurance policy may not cover the accident and resulting damage,” Ames warns.

Additionally, unexpected breakdowns can happen (as I learned the hard way with my first car, a gold Daewoo Matiz named Mertel). Having roadside assistance is essential, especially for inexperienced drivers who may not yet be familiar with car maintenance.

At Tynan Motors, you can explore flexible finance options, insurance packages, and even extended warranty plans to help cover those additional costs. Their team can help guide you through all these considerations, making the car-buying process stress-free.

Find the Right First Car at Tynan Motors

Whether you’re looking for a brand-new or quality pre-owned vehicle, Tynan Motors offers a range of cars suited for first-time drivers. With a strong focus on safety, reliability, and affordability, they can help you find the perfect car for your teen, ensuring they have a safe and enjoyable driving experience.

Visit Tynan Motors today to explore your options and make your teen’s first car purchase a smooth and informed decision!