#27 Choosing a first car

It's such a milestone buying your first car, or helping your son or daughter buy their first car. In running my car dealership, I'm often asked about this.

My advice is pretty simple:

"Spend as much as you can afford on the SAFEST vehicle possible."

It's quite common to hear people say they're looking for something really old, rough and cheap for their child's first car. That does make sense - why spend more money on a newer car when your kids are learning, and making mistakes?

Well... because they're learning, and making mistakes.

That first car will (if it's like my one) very likely end up with a few parking dings, scratches and gutter-scuffed wheels.

However, learner drivers (of any age) are statistically more likely to be involved in something more serious. Unfortunately it's just a really vulnerable time in your driving life :-(

I may sound like a stuck record... (I do feel really strongly about this!) But I just about guarantee that driving is the most dangerous thing you and your loved ones will do on a regular basis. It's where you're most likely to injure yourself or someone else. That's why it's so important to give yourself and your family the best chance possible and get the safest car you can :-)

The latest brand new 5-star safety rated model might be on your teenager's wish list (probably for other reasons!) Obviously that's not within everyone's budget.
That being the case, my advice is to look at later model cars in a price range you can afford, preferably with:

* Airbags
* ABS
* Good all-round visibility

* An electronic stability program (if possible)
* Tyre quality / condition is really important to consider too

The MOST important safety feature in a car, though, sits behind the steering wheel...

Which leads me nicely to next week's Buttercup blog, on being invincible :-)
Until then, have a great weekend, take care, see you next week!

Buckle up, buttercups! And think 'safety first' for first cars.

Emms

PS - Please share my Buckle Up Buttercup tips! The more we talk about road safety and what we can do to keep ourselves and others safe – the safer our roads will be. Things that might be obvious to you might still be unknown to your friends or family.