Advantages of a Used Car for your Teen

Choosing the first car for your teenage driver can be a difficult decision. You want a car for them that is practical, safe, and something they will enjoy driving. Unfortunately, most teens want a brand new car that is expensive and in style. However, you should buy a car that is safe and practical for a first time driver. First time drivers are still processing that driving is a responsibility and a privilege. A lot of car accidents are caused by teens that are inexperienced. There are many advantages of buying a used car rather than a brand new one because of those reasons.

One of the best advantages of buying used rather than new is there will be less worry from the parent about damage. New cars are very expensive and even more expensive to fix. Used cars cost less, yet run just as great as new, and the repairs are usually less expensive. If you buy an older used car that you plan on having your teen only drive through high school, you will be less likely to worry about any minor damages from backing up too quickly or not making the smoothest of turns. There are bound to be small nicks and dings from a new driver. You can always sell or donate the car and not lose a lot of money since the car was used and not brand new.

Another great advantage of a used vehicle is the cost factor. Used cars have less depreciation as a newer car and cost considerably less. Insuring a teenage driver is also very expensive, and the new the car the higher the rates. Older cars are more affordable, and you have to calculate for insurance being more expensive at the start because of the age of the new driver. There is no reason for a 16 year old to be driving a $70,000 vehicle and pay hundreds of dollars every month in insurance. You can purchase a used one for much less money that is still safe and properly functioning.

Older vehicles are usually a little bigger and safer. It is common for a new driver to get into a minor fender bender or back into something. Your teen will be safer in a bigger vehicle and will be likely to only damage the car and not themselves. Older cars still have the same safety features as new cars such as dual air bags. A lot of new cars are made with light, thin materials so they will go faster. Speed is not so great for a new driver as it is for the more experienced.

Used cars are great because if anything was wrong with it, the previous driver would have gotten it fixed. New cars are unpredictable and can have a lot of repairs because it is the first time they are being driven. If your teen is paying for the maintenance of the vehicle, they will save money by owning a used one. Properly maintained used cars run just as smooth as a new car and cost half the price.

About the Author: Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable Austin used cars and is known as one of the best used cars austin dealers. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Tips for Buying a Used Car or Truck

There are many advantages for purchasing a used vehicle rather than a new one. The number one advantage is that you do not have to worry about rapid depreciation rates like you would with a new car or truck. The value of a used vehicle is better, and the prices are more affordable and reasonable. There are a lot of selections for used cars and trucks, and you can decide on many different styles and models to choose from. Older vehicles that are well maintained run great and usually only need minor adjustments. When you are ready to purchase a used car or truck here are some tips for buying your vehicle.

Because you are not the sole driver of the used vehicle, it is important to check the history of the car or truck you want to purchase. Properly maintained vehicles can operate and run smoothly for years, but the reliability can decrease if it was in numerous accidents or not maintained. You can get a history report that documents if the vehicle was in any type of accident. If it was, check the repairs to make sure they were addressed.

There are many things you should look at before you drive a used vehicle off the lot. First you should check the body of it and take your time doing so. There should not be visible damage or scratches. You should also look at the interior and make sure there are not any torn seats or other ripped materials. You can tell if the vehicle was well maintained if the interior and body look nice.

If the vehicle you are looking at has power windows, locks, and steering, you should check to make sure everything is in working order. Ask to take the vehicle on a test drive and make sure the windows roll up and down easily, the steering can be maneuvered to your satisfaction, and check to see if the locks work. Electrical problems can be very costly and can cause annoyance if your windows do not roll down for example.

Another important thing to check for is the heating and air conditioning. This is especially important if you live in a very hot or cold climate. For example, the summer in Austin is extremely hot and you will want your Austin used cars to have cold air condition. If you live in the north, for example, it will be very important to have a working heater for the cold winter months.

Used car dealers also do a lot of these inspections for themselves before the purchase a vehicle from someone. You can ask if they have a history report. If you are uncomfortable checking the interior, exterior, and electrical work you can hire a mechanic to look at some of the more technical components. Used vehicles are a great way to go because of the affordability, value, and running lifetime.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable Austin used cars and is known as one of the best used cars austin dealers. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.