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Looking for a car but don't know anything about cars...
Ok, I'll be turning 16 in March. I know it's a while away, but I already have my permit and I'm planning on getting a hardship. So, I've been kindof thinking about getting a car lately. The thing is, I hardly know anything about cars haha. I know it'll most likely be a used car because 1) It won't be as much of a big deal if I get a dink in it as it would be if it was brand new and 2) I want to help pay for it, but I don't want it to be extremely expensive, for the sake of myself and my parents. So, my question is, what kind of car would you suggest? I'm mostly interested in it's safety features, but I don't want it to be like a minivan or something that's too big for what I'll be using it for. I was thinking about a VMW Beetle, just because I've always loved their unique bodies, but I haven't checked the safety features on it yet. I really don't care about anything like heated seats or sunroofs or whatever. So yeah, suggestions please? Thanks SO much :)
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Want to answer more questions in the Technology category?
Maybe give some free advice about: Cars?
its not my first car, but the car I have currently is a Dodge Caliber.
its really cute and sporty, its a 4 cylinder so its great on gas, but its a hatchback so its got alot of space like an suv. Ive taken it on camping trips, to the beach, lots of fun in this car! the inside is really nice and dodge has a good warranty. Used ones are very resonably priced AND it gets 5 star crash test ratings so its very safe!
heres a pic of my car! i love it!
[Link](Mouse over link to see full location)
hope this helps!
steph 21 =]
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I have had many different cars including a pontiac grand am, a chevy corsica, a chevy cavalier, a dodge avenger, and a toyota corolla.
The only car I never had problems with was the toyota corolla. and it wasnt even brand new or anything. Im fact it was the oldest of all the cars ive owned.
Therefore I suggest a toyota.
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I wouldn't suggest a Beetle. My dad works with cars for a living, and he said they aren't good for those of us who are just starting to drive on our own.
That being said, I suggest a Grand AM. I have one and I LOVE it. It's really easy to get used to and stuff, too :) It also gets decent gas mileage. My best friend also has one, and she raves about it as well. Like somebody said below, used cars are the way to go when you're first starting out (both my best friend and I have used cars).
If you need any more info, send me an inbox!
-Laura (17-f)
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Be warned - Beetles are relatively unsafe, especially if you're a new driver and/or live somewhere with snow, or bad weather. They're easy to roll because of their round and slightly top-heavy build, and believe me, you do NOT want to be involved in a rollover accident. A wider, front-wheel drive car that's a little lower to the ground will give you more grip and more control for slippery weather. If your state/city tends to flood, however, you might WANT a taller type of car. Take your usual weather into account.
I agree with Abby about Hondas - they really do (seem to) last forever (I think they were actually named as one of the top 10 longest lasting cars).
As far as my experience goes, Hondas and Nissans from the 1990s are the longest-lasting, and safest. My parents both had Accords, both of the cars were in BAD accidents, and my parents were fine. I can honestly say Hondas are probably some of the safest cars on the market. They're just built REALLY well. They're like little tanks.
All together, if you're looking for a durable car that lasts a long time, that isn't easy to crash, take a look at Hondas and other cars from the 1990's.
Most cars from that decade allow the driver to really feel the road - that is, you'll quickly know when the road is slippery, etc. They'll give you a good, solid feel for driving, which is SO important for your first car. Cars from the 2000s, I think, are too cushy, and you can't really tell what's going on under your wheels. While I'm all for control, however, I also suggest you look for an automatic. That way you'll have less to think about, unless you've been doing a lot of practice driving on a manual shifter.
Now, I drive a car that I got from a volunteer car lot (more on that in a sec). I actually don't recommend my car, though, unless you're ready to spring for repairs. These have a tendency to devour transmissions, I'm told. I do, however, drive about 340 miles on one tank of gas, which is great (close to 30mpg). I love it because it handles rough driving and weaving, and...uh, all sorts of illegal things that you shouldn't do with your car. (Avoid bright colors, you might get pulled over more often)^^
Anyway, a used car is a fantastic idea. If you can find a friend (or a parent) who knows a lot about cars, you can even check out a volunteer lot (Google Volunteers of America). They sell donated cars that often need a couple of minor repairs, and they make great fixer-uppers (I got my car for $1500, including tax, title, and registration). Their goal is to provide people with cars who need them, and that includes teenagers. I don't suggest going to one of those places without a knowledgeable acquaintance, though.
When you get to the test-driving step, check for locking seat belts, and an Anti-lock Break System. Ask about the gas mileage in the city versus on the highway - you wanna aim for like, 25mpg+. I also suggest, after you've decided on a couple of cars to look into a little more, checking www.kbb.com (Kelly Blue Book). That way you can check the value of the car to make sure you're not getting ripped off. (Be wary of this, be suspicious, and be prepared to try to talk the price down.) Take a mental note of the mileage of the car you're looking at. Aim for below 100,000. Anywhere above hat, depending on the car, it's probably nearing the end of its vehicular life.
NEVER put the money down the day you see the car. Take some time, do your research, check out the Carfax report, if you can get it, etc.
I know this is kind of a lot to take note of, but keep it in mind.
Good luck on finding your new car! (and congrats for when you get it)
Siren
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A used safe car is a great idea. Beetles are like the bugs, easy to crush if you know what I mean.
I have a used 02 honda accord and its pretty nice, and very easy to drive. My dad owns three car shops and wanted me to get a honda because of their durability, they last forever. Toyotas are their competitor and are around the same quality. If your going for an older used model, make sure it has ABS breaking system and air bags. I'd chose a mid sized sedan. If you get one thats a clunker and a lot of metal, the safer you'll be.
Gas mileage is important too!
Go to a lot and be ready to ask questions. Don't buy on the spot. Do your research before buying and you'll be fine.
Good luck,
Abby
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