Best Used Cars Perfect for Your Teenager
Best First Car Guide: Why Your Teen Needs a Used Car
You want your teen to have a best first car, but you can't afford to spend a lot of money. There are benefits to buying a used car. Here's why.
Keyword(s): best first car
Studies suggest that an average of 1,022 people die each year in car crashes involving teenagers.
While nearly 30% of teens admit to texting while driving, this isn't the only distraction young adults have on the road.
With this in mind, it's important that parents focus on reliability and safety when shopping for the best first car for their kids.
If you want to buy a car for your teenager, here some of the best used cars available at the moment:
Knowing How to Choose the Best First Car For a Teen
Choosing the best first car for a teen is about more than finding a cheap model.
As a parent, you have the responsibility to see through your child's request for a luxurious model. You'll need to make compromises so that your kid's car has all the practical features necessary to keep him or her safe.
Here are some tips for choosing the best first car for your teen:
1. Check For Key Safety Features
When choosing the best first car for your teen, check that it has key safety features such as curtain airbags and electronic stability control.
Additionally, the car should have fully-functioning seatbelts.
If your budget allows, consider opting for a model with forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking.
To assess the safety of a car, check online to see how it performed in crash tests undertaken by the Insurance Institue for Highway Safety.
2. Avoid Larger Pickups and Sports Cars
SUVs and larger pickups are more difficult to drive. With this in mind, they are not the best choice for new drivers.
Not only this, these models can fit more people in them. The more people your teen gives a ride to, the more distractions they'll have from the road.
Sports cars are another bad choice for a first car. They tempt people to drive more quickly because they are more powerful.
These cars have higher accident rates as well as higher insurance premiums.
3. Consider Reliability
If you want your teen to drive their first car for the foreseeable future, you need a model that will last. With this in mind, reliability is key when choosing the best first car for a teen.
It's worth noting that all used cars are treated differently. Some have multiple owners, others only have one. Whatever your choice, check the maintenance history of the car before buying it.
4. Choose a Newer Model
While your budget may only allow you to buy a used model, these may not have all the driver-assistance technologies of newer ones.
This doesn't mean you have to buy the latest model from a dealership. We suggest you choose a car no older than 8 years old.
These models often come with blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and a rearview camera.
There are also a variety of auto loans available to choose from that will ensure you can buy the best model for your teen's needs.
5. Get the Car Checked by a Mechanic
Last but not least, always get your final car choices checked by a mechanic. Once you've narrowed down your search, you can ask your mechanic to come with you to check the various vehicles.
He or she will tell you if the car is in good condition. They'll also have the knowledge to identify any areas of concern.
The Best Used Car Models For Teens
Now that you know what to look for in a used car, we'd like to redirect you to some of the best first cars currently available:
Honda Accord
The Honda Accord comes with swift and accurate handling with all the characteristics of a reliable and safe car.
This model is enjoyable and comfortable to drive. It has the highest U.S. News Safety Score of 10 and is a responsible choice.
The 2012 model ranges between approximately $12,000 and $18,000, making it an affordable choice for a first car.
Saturn Aura
The Saturn brand is not available anymore. But, this GM received rave reviews for its safety features and reliability.
While it does have a cheaply made cabin, this older 2009 model is perfect for a first car.
Not only this, it is one of the most affordable models available. You can buy a second-hand one today for anywhere between $7,000 and $9,000.
Ford Fusion
The 2010 Ford Fusion is a larger model with plenty of trunk space. This model is perfect for students who play sports and carry around a lot of equipment with them.
If you have the extra cash, the Fusion comes in a Hybrid version, perfect if you want to save money on fuel. Plus, it is very comfortable to maneuver.
It received high scores for both safety and reliability and is available for anywhere between $8,000 and $13,000.
Toyota Avalon
While the Toyota Avalon does have a more powerful V6 engine, it is also fuel efficient and reliable.
This 2011 model is spacious and has high safety scores too. Plus, you can get standard Bluetooth and USB integration. These features are great to ensure your teens aren't using their phones while driving.
The Toyota Avalon is more expensive than other cars. You can buy it for anywhere between $16,000 and $19,000 at used car dealerships.
Chevrolet Malibu
Because of its V6 engine, the Chevrolet Malibu is not a fuel-efficient option. But, it does come with balanced handling which will allow your teens to focus all their attention on the road.
While there is a 2013 model available, we have chosen the 2012 one as it is more affordable. You can find this Chevrolet for anywhere between $11,000 and $15,000.
Finding a Used Car in the Edmonton Area
If you live in the Edmonton area, you may find it difficult to choose between the mound of used car dealerships.
At Car Corner, we have a certified used vehicle inventory that includes cars ranging from 2009 to 2017.
Our team members are professionals that pay attention to detail and would be more than happy to help you on your search to find the best first car for your teen.
To find out more about our opening hours or the services we provide, contact us today!
