There are a variety of first-time experiences that people hold memorable to them, from falling in love and getting a first job to learning how to drive a vehicle. Being able to drive a vehicle is a notable experience out of the few, as it allows people to travel independently across locations. Buying a first car can be incredibly memorable, potentially representing a major life milestone, symbolizing newfound independence, freedom and personal responsibility. Knowing this, it is important that one makes the right decisions when buying their first car.
To start off, buyers should research the brand of car that they are purchasing. Purchasing a robust and reliable vehicle can go a long way, making it a smart choice for their first car. Japanese manufacturers such as Toyota, Lexus and Subaru are known for their versatile engineering, leading to exceptional reliability and a recommended choice for new buyers. According to Kelley Blue Book, they rank among the highest in predicted reliability, with the three scoring in the high 60s out of 100 points.
Digging deeper, buyers should consider researching any important background information about their car. Has the vehicle been in a crash or salvaged? Has it been stolen? Being able to look out for these factors can help ensure the buyer’s safety. On the topic of safety, new drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in minor accidents. According to the NHTSA, in 2021, drivers 20 and under made up 5.1% of licensed drivers in the United States, yet they made up 8.5% of total drivers in all fatal crashes and 12.6% of drivers in all crashes. Features like anti-lock braking systems, rearview cameras and blind spot monitors help prevent accidents and reduce the severity of collisions.
Despite all of this, none of this would matter without arguably the most important factor in buying a car, the price. Cars can be a mixed experience for everyone of different budgets, with today’s vehicles only increasing in price; leaving those with tight budgets without the luxury of freely choosing what car to buy. Especially when purchasing a used car on platforms such as Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, it is important to know how to negotiate the price down to something more reasonable.
“Look for someone that’s trying to get rid of their old car, [perhaps] because they upgraded [to a new car]…when they get rid of it, they’re willing to negotiate more than initially,” FHS junior Vihan Paripaptyadar said. He is passionate about cars, and is looking forward to purchasing his first car, shortly after obtaining his driver’s license.
Cars are not only a form of transportation, but are also a long-term investment. To help make one’s first car last, one can put money towards vehicle maintenance. This ensures that the car will continue to run smoothly, and they even be able to customize it, making it unique to the buyer. This can be achieved in different ways, if it is funded by the buyer’s parents, or working a job to rack up their own money.
“I feel like you need to get a job to try buying a car,” FHS junior Matias Satulvosky said. “If you’re trying to buy it on your own, stack up like eight grand.”
He was in the market for a first car, and purchased it during winter break. He is excited to travel along the journey with his new companion.
A first car is something that can only happen once, and can bring a plethora of emotions and memories. Careful research and patience can provide first-time buyers to find a car that is not only reliable, safe and affordable, but also one that they can genuinely enjoy driving for years to come.
