BUYING YOUR
TEEN’S FIRST CAR
Striking the perfect balance between your
teen’s expectations, budget considerations
and important safety features can feel like a
challenge when shopping car. With the help of
Jack Ingram Motors’ Whitney Cadwell, we put
together a few tips to keep in mind.
BEFORE SHOPPING
Sit down with your teen and talk about expectations early
on and the criteria you’ll use to buy a car. This is also a good
time discuss how much if any of the cost you expect your
teen to contribute, whether it be a portion of the purchase
price, insurance or fuel as well as what conditions your teen
needs to meet in order to maintain driving privileges. Don’t
be afraid to put it all in writing! A contract gives clarity and
ensures that everyone is on the same page.
SAFETY FIRST
According to Whitney, “Parents look at safety, and kids
want the technology and design/style of the vehicle.” What
to consider? Bluetooth, back up camera, alarm systems, and
air bags all can help keep your new driver safe. Sedans tend
to be a safer bet than compacts or trucks.
Whitney’s Picks
Nissan Sentra: The Sentra has back up camera and
Bluetooth in the base model as well as XM radio and
Push to Start.
Nissan Altima: A good size at a great price, the base
model has all the features- XM radio, back up camera,
Bluetooth, and is stylish and reliable.
Certified Pre-Owned Volvo or new Volvo S60: 5 star
safety rating, navigation, Bluetooth, XM radio, with a
4-year 50,000 mile warranty. The CPO Volvo gets 7 year
100,000 mile warranty based on date of in service.
NEW OR USED, BUY OR LEASE
Buying used could save you some money, but a new car
offers peace of mind and newer features. “Usually parents
look for a newer car because they know it’s more reliable
and has better safety features. Also, maintenance is usually
included on new and certified pre-owned cars,” Whitney
says.
Buying a used vehicle has its perks, but Whitney advises,
“Carfax is a must for pre-owned purchases.” In addition,
she stresses that shoppers ask about the warranty. “Is there
any warranty left on the preowned vehicle, and is there an
option to add a warranty?”
“Leasing is smart for someone who doesn’t use a lot of miles
and for someone who is looking for a new car with a much
lower payment. It’s also smart if you will want another car
in 3-4 years.” She also adds that “On the plus side, all
maintenance is usually included in the lease.”
FUEL ECONOMY
Whether it’s you or your teen who will be filling the tank,
it’s a good idea to consider a car’s fuel efficiency when you
shop. “Sedans have better gas mileage versus trucks and
SUVs.” Another tip? “Diesel vehicles get incredible fuel
economy; some get up to 55 mpg on the highway. Diesel
vehicles usually cost more upfront, but doing a little math
proves that with higher MPG capability you will save money
in the long run.”
Volkswagen Jetta: Bluetooth, touchscreen radio,
excellent fuel economy and up to 39 mpg hwy. Prices
start at $15,988.
Audi A3 and Audi A4: The base model has XM radio,
Bluetooth, panoramic roof, leather seats, LED driving
lights, alarm system, keyless entry, and comes with a
4-year 50,000 mile warranty.
Mercedes-Benz CLA: This car offers today’s leading
technology and comforts, with 10 airbags and collision
prevention assist. It will alert you if you’re getting too
close to the vehicle in front of you.
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Ed ito r’s Note: The se pic ks are gre
for co ol pa ren ts too !
www.potentialmagazine.com
Spring 2016 |
29