Buying a car is a Big Deal. It's one of the first really and truly adult things most of us do. And, it's a big responsibility both financially and emotionally. Every red blooded teen says they're ready for it. But is your kid really ready to own their own set of wheels? This guide from Sears Imported Autos will let you know if your child's ready for his or her first car:
How responsible is your child?
No one knows your child like you do. Who are they? Have they shown that they're ready to take on other sorts of responsibilities? Do they do their chores without drama? Or is the trash never out when it's supposed to be?
Do they participate in after school activities? Involvement in things like band, drama, sports or science club show that they're capable of some level of commitment and responsibility. Or do they just “hang out” after school?
Have they shown the ability to take care of something or did you burn through hamsters like paper plates at a family picnic? Only you can gage whether your child has a proven track record of responsible behavior. Take a hard look at things before you start talking cars.
Skin in the game
When the subject of car ownership came up, did they expect you to pay the cost or will they participate? Do they really understand the cost of ownership? It ain't cheap.
- Car: Even used cars are a big expense.
- Insurance: Some companies will include teens on the family policy and some will insist on a separate one. Either way, your rates are going to rise by 50 to 100 percent.
- Registration, license renewal and inspection fees: These add up fast.
- Gas: How much will they be driving?
- Maintenance: Regular tune-ups and maintenance are smart preventative measure to extend the life of a car, but they cost in the short term.
- Repairs: Things break. Will your teen be able to pay for them when they do?
Do they have skillz?
It's one thing to be financially and emotionally ready for car ownership, but are they experienced enough? How well do they drive? Are they acting like the next Jeff Gordon or Danica Patrick? Or are they taking it slow? Watch your teen in action.
How do they look at driving? Is it a right? A privilege? Do they seem to understand and respect the dangers involved? Attitude is everything.
One sweet (safe) ride
Unless your last name is Trump, a teen who's responsible enough for car ownership also realizes that they aren't going to get a Porsche, Mercedes or a Lamborghini anything. When it comes to safety, most sports cars don't make the grade, not to mention they'll kill your insurance premiums. Here are a few factors to consider when shopping for a new (or used) car for your teen.
- No compacts, sub-compacts, pick-up trucks or giant SUVs.
- A used car is great, but make sure it's from this century.
- Make sure it has ABS (Anti-Lock Brake System) and ESC (Electronic Stability Control). Both of these make the car much safer and easier to drive.
- Air bags. Side-curtain air bags are a plus.
Once you're sure your teen is ready for a car, be proud. It means you've done a great job in raising them. Now, take your high blood pressure meds and try to relax.
