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Buying a Car for Your Teen

If you're buying a used car for your teenager, here are a few things to keep in mind before you go to the dealership. 

Safety First. Find cars you both like by using an online auto shopping service that gives you the control to see make and model options before visiting the dealership. Be check out the safety ratings https://www.nhtsa.dot.gov, and information on gas economy https://www.fueleconomy.gov.  

Getting a safe car is essential. Per mile driven, teen drivers between the ages of 16 and 19 are four times more likely to crash than older drivers, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

And while it may seem like bigger is better when it comes to safety, sheer size isn’t the most important factor. In addition to size, you’ll want to consider crash test results for the vehicle and the safety features it offers.

Make your teen take ownership and teach financial responsibility. Give your teen at least some of the responsibility of car ownership. That includes paying for some or all the cost of the car such as a portion of the monthly loan payment, gas, oil changes, regular maintenance and auto insurance. Check out our financing options.

Opt for teen features. Some cars offer safety features specifically geared toward teen drivers. For instance, Hyundai Blue Link will notify the vehicle’s owner if the car has been driven beyond certain boundaries or after certain hours.

For everyday driving, consider a GPS system. Used as a navigation system, it can help ensure your teen doesn’t get lost.

If your child needs the car for school, sporting events and visiting potential colleges, the miles can add up fast. Look for a fuel-efficient car to reduce the cost of a fill-up. When college time rolls around, your child will thank you for the great gas mileage and the quality car you helped him or her pick out.

Let your teen test drive. Make sure your teen drives the car on the highway and in stop-and-go traffic. As your teen drives, use our handy [used car test drive checklist]. Be critical. Just because you may not be willing to pay a lot for your teen’s first car doesn’t mean you have to settle. Ask us lots of questions and request a vehicle history report.

Carousel 2 serving Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, North Liberty, Marion, and Coralville, IA is proud to be an automotive leader in our community. Since opening our doors, Carousel 2 has maintained a solid commitment to you, our customers. We do our best to ensure your complete satisfaction every time you step into our car dealership. This is why we offer the widest selection of used and pre-owned Cars, Trucks, and SUVs and provide true ease of purchase in Iowa.