There is a term “starter home.” It means a suitable home for a first-time homeowner. Being a first-time homeowner carries with it a lot of responsibilities. The same is true for a first-time driver. Owning a vehicle and everything that revolves around owning a vehicle is a huge responsibility. On top of that, many first-time drivers are quite young. It makes sense that they start with a used vehicle. Even better if they earn that vehicle through their own hard work.
1. Accidents Are More Common With New Drivers
It does not make a lot of sense to provide the keys to a new car to a new driver. There is a reason that insurance companies charge much higher rates to younger and newer drivers. They statistically get into more accidents. A used vehicle is easier to replace if it is in an accident. This is especially true if the vehicle is more economical. A vehicle with a few dents and dings may get a few more in the hands of a new driver. A car that is already dinged up a bit can suffer another small ding or two without a problem.
2. Used Car Payments, Insurance and Registration Will Be Cheaper
Used vehicles do not cost as much to insure. Also, car payments and registration are cheaper for a used car model than a new one. A new driver is more likely to have fewer financial resources to draw upon to pay a car payment and expensive insurance.
3. Pride of Ownership
New drivers, especially younger drivers, may need to learn the pride of ownership. If everything is provided to people, they are less likely to appreciate those things. They are also less likely to appreciate other’s possessions and to treat them with appropriate respect. If you start out your driving experience with a used vehicle, you will likely have far more appreciation the day you purchase your first new car.
4. Newer Drivers Need to Learn Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Tasks
All newer drivers learn over time what maintenance tasks that cars need, like oil changes, new belts and tires, and brake jobs. At first, they don’t know all of the basic automotive maintenance tasks. One that is neglected that impacts the engine can have a devastating impact on the vehicle. Newer drivers do not notice the subtle or not-so-subtle signs that a vehicle needs servicing. Learning about car repair and maintenance takes time and get more information about this discussion by visiting edmentum.net. It is better to experiment with a used car where maintenance and repair mistakes are often not as costly.
5. A Used Vehicle Will Not Lose as Much Value Through Depreciation
New vehicles lose quite a bit of value in their first few years. If the new driver gets a used vehicle, they can get a bargain that will hold more of its value over time. Later, they can turn around and sell the used vehicle or trade it into a dealership to get something better.
6. There Are Many More Choices in Used Vehicles
There are many more types of used vehicles available than new models. These used vehicle models have track records with companies like Consumer Reports. You can get a feel for what these vehicles were like as new models on websites like Car and Driver and Edmunds. Then, you can find out how they lived up to their potential on Consumer Reports. This will help that first car be one that is reliable for many years to come.
It is far better to search for a used car at a local, trusted auto dealership for a new driver. They will save money in the long and short run. They will have a vehicle that some small mistakes won’t end up as major financial blunders. They can also find one with a proven track record for longevity.
