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It's a big month for teenagers across the country with A Level results giving them something to celebrate or commiserate as they look to make the next big step in life. One other such step is getting that first car! If you're looking to get on the road for the first time after passing your test, or you're a parent who wants to give their teen that all-important first set of wheels, this article looks at how much you should think about spending on it.
The average first car for a new driver will cost around £1,500 - a figure that has been fairly consistent over the last few years. But it's much more than just the money you'll need to consider when looking at what sort of car is right for you or your teen. This means understanding not only the budget but the running costs of whatever car it is.
Safety should be at the top of your list, as this will determine how well equipped your teen is on the roads. An older car might have a lower price tag but if it doesn't come with safety features such as airbags, ABS brakes or modern safety systems like lane departure warning then you're potentially risking their lives.
New technology is also something to factor in when it comes to choosing a car for a first time driver. While an older car may be cheaper, it could lack up-to-date tech features such as Bluetooth and GPS navigation which can help new drivers get around safely.
Ford Fiestas are the UK's most popular first car, with around 17% of new drivers taking this model for their first set of wheels. However, second-hand Vauxhall Corsas and Citroen C1s also come in close behind when it comes to the top cars for British new drivers.
When it comes to buying a first car, it's important to consider factors such as reliability and safety. You'll want a car that is not too old, and has been well cared-for by its previous owners. Generally speaking, your best bet may be a new or nearly new car with low mileage that hasn't had more than one owner in the past.
The most important thing you should consider when purchasing a first car for your teen is affordability. It's easy to get carried away with all of the bells and whistles that come with more expensive cars, but in reality these will have much higher running costs which could end up being too much in the long run.
The key is to find a good balance between getting them a car that is safe and reliable, but also one which fits in their budget. You don't want your teen having to pay for expensive repairs or fuel bills that blow an already tight budget out of the water!
When figuring out how much should you spend on your first car, the key is to decide what's best for you and your wallet. If you're looking for a cheaper option, there are plenty of cars available for under £1,000 - just be sure to check the vehicle history before buying. Alternatively, if you have a slightly bigger budget and prefer a newer model, you could go for a car up to around the £4,000 mark.
Cars towards the lower end include the popular Volkswagen Polo, Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Corsa. Cars moving towards the £4000 mark include the likes of the Mazda 3, Audi A1 and Citroen C4.
Whichever option you choose, make sure it fits your budget so you don't end up struggling to make ends meet in the future. You should also make sure that any car you buy is safe and reliable - after all, you want your teen on the roads feeling as secure as possible.
When choosing your first car it's important to look for something that is small and economical – such as a hatchback or city car. Smaller cars are also generally cheaper to insure, so you'll save money in the long run. You'll also want to make sure that it has the latest safety features, such as airbags and anti-lock brakes.
The cost of car insurance for 17 year olds in the UK can vary greatly depending on things such as your age, driving record and the type of car you're looking to insure. However, it's likely that you'll pay more than average since new drivers are considered to be high risk by insurance companies. As a result, it's important to shop around and compare quotes before deciding on a policy that's best for you.
Last but not least, price should always be a consideration when looking for your first car, but don't let it be the only factor. You'll want to find something that suits your lifestyle – whether that's a reliable runaround for commuting or a sporty car with a bit of style. And, most importantly, research the vehicle history thoroughly so you can be sure of getting the best car for your money.
Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to buying a first car. What works for one person may not be the best option for someone else, so take your time and find something that fits your budget and needs. And don't forget to shop around – you never know what deals you might find!
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