Have you just passed your driving test? Congratulations! After all those lessons, the updates to the test procedure, and changes to the Highway Code, you’ve finally become a fully-fledged motorist.
If you’re looking for your first car, there are plenty of options available. There are so many makes and models to choose from that it can be a little overwhelming.
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First Car for New Driver
To help you whittle down your options, here’s a look at how to approach the car-buying process.
Set a budget
Knowing how much you have to spend on your first car is a great starting point. This will steer you towards motors that you can afford and narrow your search.
However, as well as the price of the car itself, you’ll also need to factor in running costs, tax, and insurance. Budgeting beyond the initial sale is crucial as you need to know how much you’ll spend on your car from month to month.
New or used?
Used cars continue to be the go-to choice for many motorists across the UK. The main reason is affordability. You’re paying less for a used Volkswagen at your local London dealership than you would for a brand new car that’s fresh off the production line.
As well as being more expensive, newer cars lose their value the second you drive them off the forecourt, whereas this depreciation process is much slower for older cars. This means that you’re less likely to spend more than you need to on your first car.
Go for a test drive
The best way to know if the car you like is right for you is by taking it for a spin. Half an hour spent driving around will give you an idea of how comfortable you feel and whether you could happily use this car every day.
If you’re very new to driving, bring a friend or family member along with you – ideally, someone who’s also a motorist. This is likely to put you at ease and help you put into practice everything you’ve learned for your test.
Safety first
Your safety on the road is paramount. Look out for features that are designed to keep you safe, such as airbags, automated braking, and blind-spot monitoring systems. You’ll find these details on new and used cars, and it’s essential that you’re investing in a car that can protect you, no matter if you’re heading to the shops or along the M1.
So, what type of car will you get? Will you go for a new or used vehicle?
