Best First Cars for Teen Drivers

Finding the most reliable vehicles is a big part of car shopping, especially when you’re picking out a first car for a new teen driver. You want to buy the safest car you can afford while also trying not to break the bank. Finding the best cars for teens — or just good starter cars for anyone — is a big task, and one worth spending time on.

Although buying a vehicle with a high safety rating and safety features can help protect your loved one, the first line of defense is teaching your teen driver how to properly drive, the dangers of distracted driving and what to look out for while on the road. But once you pass along those lessons, there’s more to think about when hunting down good first cars. So, here are some tips for shopping for affordable cars that are safe, along with how to find reliable cars for teens before you head to your local dealership.

Car Safety Features for Teens

To help your teen driver stay aware of their surroundings while driving, purchase a car with modern safety features like a rearview camera, blind spot detector, lane departure warning sensors and automatic emergency braking. When you head to the lot, don’t be afraid to ask which kinds of safety features they offer. 

When comparing cars, it’s also helpful to review reports from organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and Consumer Reports, or check if a model was an IIHS Top Safety Pick. 

Insurance Cost For Good First Cars

The costs of insuring young drivers are high due to their limited experience behind the wheel. One way to cut insurance costs is by purchasing a car with a low auto insurance rate, which is often found in good starter cars with strong safety ratings. Use tools like Kelley Blue Book or your insurance provider’s quote tools to compare rates by model year and vehicle type.

Cost of Maintenance and Repairs

Remember, the cost of buying a car goes beyond the sticker price. Things like fuel economy, gas mileage, oil changes, regular maintenance and part replacements can add up. The average cost of routine maintenance and repairs on average is $0.09 per mile, according to a study conducted by AAA. This is all part of the cost of owning an operating a vehicle.

So, instill good maintenance habits in your young driver early, starting with their first car. Remind them that keeping an eye on the oil change sticker to see when they last brought it in is a vital part of making sure their car stays safe and functional. Oil changes should be done every 5,000–7,000 miles or every 6 or 12 months, depending on whether you’ve reached the minimum mileage driven. You should also have the tires rotated every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. 

Also, keep an eye on how your windshield wipers, car battery and brake pads are performing. These aren’t things you want to suddenly discover aren’t working when you need them most, whether it’s inclement weather or a steep downhill pitch. A little prevention goes a long way toward keeping your teen driver safe and keeping costs low.

Top 10 Most Reliable Used Cars for Teen Drivers

It’s important to consider a number of factors when looking for a car, including price, make, model and the aesthetic you’re hoping to find. But safety should be top of mind. So, check out this list of safe and reliable vehicles for teens across different vehicle types and prices before you head to the lot.

Coverage You Can Rely On

No matter the vehicle you choose, we’re here to provide you with the coverage you need. Contact your local Farm Bureau agent to receive a quote on your new vehicle.