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Spring break is almost over, so buying a car as a student may be more tempting than ever as summer approaches. But with the freedom of your own pride and joy comes some issues you may need to navigate, such as the extra costs and your personal responsibility.
Research the Car Properly
Before you open your wallet, make sure the car you are looking at and considering is really the one that is best for you. Keep your emotions balanced so you don’t make a rash decision. A sporty number that takes off like a rocket is tempering when you are young. But maybe something with SEAT Leon reliability at a great price tag is the better option as you gain more experience. Check out reviews and car sites like Top Gear and Autotrader before buying.
Consider the Extra Costs
A car itself isn’t necessarily expensive to buy. You can get a great deal on a used vehicle that appears almost new if you are lucky. However, there are hidden costs with vehicle ownership. First, make sure you can reasonably pay for any finance options. You don’t want to be taking on extra work that can impact your studies just to own a car. Also, research the mileage value because petrol costs a pretty penny these days. Then there’s insurance, tax and MOT!
Learn to Drive Before Buying a Car as a Student
It may seem obvious, but it’s crucial to have sufficient driving experience before buying a car. Without it, you’re more likely to be involved in an accident, as statistics show that 26% of new drivers aged between 18 and 24 have an accident in their first year. Take as many driving lessons as you need to build your confidence and understand how your car works. Start by driving on local roads to get a feel for the car’s response before venturing further afield.
Ponder How Responsible You Are
Owning a car comes with tons of new personal responsibilities. And these must be taken seriously. On the road, being irresponsible doesn’t only endanger your life. It threatens the lives of anyone in the car, other road users and pedestrians. Then there’s the additional “designated driver” responsibility. As the car owner of the group, you may end up being that person. If so, you must take this very seriously. If not, maybe it isn’t the right time for buying a car right now.
Look for the Features You Need
Everyone’s ideal car is different. And what appeals to you about a vehicle won’t appeal to someone else. Maybe you need to commute a lot between campuses and work placements. So a GPS would really come in handy. Many modern cars have these built-in, but not all. As a city driver, you may also benefit from a low emission car to save some money on tax and parking rates. Plus, smaller vehicles such as hatchbacks are easier to manoeuvre in tight spaces.
Summary
A little research about the models you are considering is a massive help when buying a car as a student. But before doing so, it helps to ensure your skills are up to it first. Further, think of a car’s features before anything else, as a reliable vehicle is more a tool than a flashy accessory.