How to Buy Your First Car: What Should You Buy?

Ah, the feeling of driving your first car - a liberating experience sure to leave a mark on just about every driver. Having your own car means freedom - freedom from having to borrow the keys whenever you want to hit the road, and freedom from worry that someone else will be behind the wheel when you’re ready to head out on your great adventure. Yes, there’s something truly special about settling into the seat behind your very own steering wheel for the first time.

But which car should a new buyer choose, and how should said buyer go about the purchase?

Fear not - the path to finding the perfect car for you is easier than you might expect. With just a few key tips to keep your search on a good path, you can find the perfect first car without the stress, without the heartache, and without going broke. Here’s a look at how to buy your first car without feeling like a newbie.

Should You Buy New or Used?

The very first question any smart shopper should ask is whether to buy new or used. In years past, this might have been a relatively black and white comparison - are you willing to pay a ton for something new, or settle for an old used clunker? Fortunately, this is no longer the case, and the solution comes from a variety of angles.

First off, today’s used cars are simply nothing like used cars of years past. With so many fantastic models on the market over the past decade, today’s used cars are arguably just as amazing and amenity-rich as many of the new cars on the market today, at a fraction of the price. That means choosy buyers can easily find a a high-quality used vehicle at amazing prices without having to sacrifice on fun - a great option for those looking to save on their first car purchase.

On the other hand, today’s new models are among the most impressive options to ever hit the market, and many come at amazing deals meant to draw in even first time buyers. Between manufacturer incentives, long-term warranties, and financing options designed with you in mind, it’s now easier than ever to find amazing deals on new and high-quality vehicles. All it takes is the right eye for deals as they come and you may just find yourself enjoying a new vehicle on your very first lap around the neighborhood.

Lease or Finance?

Of course, once you’ve determined exactly which vehicle you might be looking for, it’s time to think about what kind of purchase you’re looking to make in the first place - or if you’re even looking to “purchase” anything at all.

Lease deals for today’s drivers are some of the most valuable ever offered, typically allowing drivers to avoid the cost of depreciation on new vehicles and offering amazing, low monthly payments on used vehicles not otherwise available during a purchase. Drivers who like to change vehicles often or who don’t want to commit to a purchase might just find the best solution in a lease - just sign on the line and enjoy until it comes time to switch it up.

Or, for those drivers excited about owning a piece of mobile property, financing options often make buying new or used vehicles more affordable now than they’ve ever been before. Whether it’s low or 0% financing options over the course of your loan or impressive rebates that take the edge off that down payment, many financing options designed for new buyers make getting that great new car easier than ever before.

Researching and Finding Vehicles That Fit Your Needs

Once you’ve decided your choice of new vs. used and how exactly you plan on financing or leasing your vehicle, it comes time to actually find the right vehicle for you. Are you more of an off-roader, looking forward to taking on trails with unmatched power that’s sure to get you where you need to go? Look no further than an SUV, preferably one designed with the power and reliability needed to match your lifestyle. Want something with a bit more flair to turn heads when you roll down the block?

Consider a sporty sedan or something with a little pony power behind the engine. Want to save big on gas without sacrificing on today’s top tech? Think electric or hybrid, and get ready to keep cruising right past the gas station the next time you hit the road for an adventure.

Finding the right vehicle for you might be as simple as browsing the lot at your trusted neighborhood dealer, or it might take a bit more searching. Consider browsing various dealership websites for dealers in your area, looking on sales platforms online for deals from buyers across the country, or checking out local community listings to see what private sellers may be asking for. By doing a little due diligence, you can ensure you’re getting the best deal and not overlooking a better price on the same vehicle elsewhere.

Find Three Vehicles That Would Work and Create a Pros/Cons List

The best way to determine exactly which vehicle is right for you is to break it down into your top three choices, and to make a basic pro/con list for each. Does each choice offer the right gas mileage for your daily driving? Enough power or flair for your lifestyle? Does one beat out the others on price by a notable amount? Is one safer, more secure, or easier to repair if something goes wrong? Does one have a history of recalls or breakdowns?

By asking these important questions and comparing your top choices, you stand a better chance of selecting the vehicle that’s actually best for you, and not just the one that seems best on the surface. That leads to a better investment and, overall, a happier driving experience.

Don’t Wait Around - Get Going, The Right Way

If you’re ready to get behind the wheel of your first car, consider some of this most important information first - including your needs, your budget, and your options - before putting money on the table. By taking the time to consider the process before buying, you stand a better chance of enjoying the miles ahead in your very own vehicle - none of the stress, and all of the freedom of driving your very own car. What will you choose?