Car Buying Tips for College Students

If you’re in your teens or 20s and are looking to buy your first car, or if you’re a parent looking to buy for your teen, you may be wondering what the best options are. You know can’t afford anything fancy, since tuition is expensive, but you’ll need something reliable and sturdy.

You think you may want to buy new (or almost-new), and are just starting to understand what’s on the market. So, where do you start?

Affordability

Of course, you know you can’t afford much, but how much is too much? When buying a new car, it’s important that you don’t get carried away, and calculate all costs over the course of about 5 years, or however you’re committed to owning the car. You want to consider gas, insurance, warranties, repairs and financing costs. Don’t forget that all cars depreciate the moment they roll off the lot.

Safety

There are different safety aspects that you want to look for when buying your first car, and all of this information is readily available with a quick Google search. It’s easy to find a smaller, inexpensive starter car that is extremely safe. Start by choosing a few models that are in your price range, then look up the safety specs from there.

Crash testing incorporates many different areas of the car, including front and side impact, as well as rollover and roof strength testing. Other safety features might include traction control, brake assist, stability control, front side airbags and 4-wheel ABS.

New or Used?

It may be empting to buy something used for yourself or your kids if you’re tight on cash, however considering all of the new safety features (not to mention fun gadgets) that are available on new cars these days, as well as the overall depreciation that will happen anyways with heavy use, finding something new might be just the ticket. Buying a newer car will also offer extra safety features that might make the parents feel better like hands-free phoning and innovative crash prevention technology.

Warranty

A good warranty is recommended in any case, but especially if you are a new driver and first-time car owner, you’ll want to have extra backing against costly repairs. There’s nothing like going to pay your already costly tuition and finding out that that money has all gone into your car.

Honda offers a range of affordable vehicles that are perfect starter cars for college students. You may want to look into purchasing a Honda Civic or HR-V for a safe, quality drive. If you’re in the market for this type of car and you’re in Los Angeles area, visit your local dealer today.

 

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