Buying your 17-year-old their first car is an exciting milestone—for both you and your teenager. It represents freedom, independence, and the beginning of a new chapter in their life. However, it’s also a significant responsibility, so choosing the right car requires careful consideration. From safety features to budget and even shipping logistics, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the best choice.
1. Set a Realistic Budget
Before you start shopping, determine a realistic budget for the car. Factor in not just the purchase price but also additional costs such as insurance, fuel, maintenance and taxes. If you’re considering a used car, include any necessary repairs or upgrades in your budget.
To keep costs manageable, consider the following:
- Look for cars with low insurance premiums (smaller, less powerful engines are ideal).
- Compare financing options if you’re purchasing a newer vehicle.
- Research cars with good fuel efficiency to keep running costs low.
2. Prioritise Safety Features
Safety should be the top priority when buying a car for a young, inexperienced driver. Modern vehicles often come with advanced safety features that can provide extra protection and peace of mind.
Look for these key safety features:
- Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
- Electronic stability control (ESC)
- Airbags (front, side and curtain)
- Lane departure warning
- Automatic emergency braking (AEB)
You can check safety ratings from organisations like the NCAP (New Car Assessment Programme) or the IIHS to ensure the car you choose meets high safety standards.
3. Choose the Right Type of Car
The ideal car for a 17-year-old is reliable, easy to drive and cost-efficient. Here are some great options to consider:
- Compact Cars: Smaller cars like the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo or Honda Jazz are easy to manoeuvre and typically cheaper to insure.
- Hatchbacks: Practical and versatile, hatchbacks like the Toyota Yaris or Hyundai i20 offer a good mix of safety and economy.
- Used Cars: Certified pre-owned vehicles can be a cost-effective choice, providing reliability at a lower price point.
Avoid cars with high-performance engines, as they can lead to higher insurance premiums and encourage risky driving behaviours.
4. Inspect Before You Buy
If you’re considering a used car, it’s essential to thoroughly inspect it before making the purchase. If you can’t view the car in person, hire a professional mechanic to perform a pre-purchase inspection. Key areas to check include:
- Engine and transmission
- Tyres, brakes and suspension
- Mileage and service history
- Signs of previous accidents or major repairs
5. Shipping the Car Across the Country
If you’ve found the perfect car for your teenager but it’s located far away, such as in Manchester while you’re based in Liverpool, shipping it can be a convenient and stress-free option.
Steps to Ship a Car Safely
Step 1: Hire a Reliable Transport Service
Start by researching reputable car shipping companies that operate between Manchester and Liverpool. Well-known companies will offer competitive rates and reliable service.
Step 2: Choose the Right Transport Type
Open Transport: A cost-effective method suitable for most cars. The car will be transported on an open trailer, exposed to weather and road debris.
Enclosed Transport: Offers added protection for higher-value vehicles, keeping the car fully enclosed during transit.
Step 3: Get a Quote and Book in Advance
You could contact multiple companies for quotes to find the best price, but using a platform like Shiply ensures you make the process even easier – you can get quotes in minutes for Greater Manchester car shipping. Booking ahead ensures timely delivery.
Step 4: Inspect Upon Arrival
When the car arrives, carefully inspect it for any damage before signing off on the delivery.
Transporting a car over short distances, like Manchester to Liverpool, is typically quick and affordable. It also saves you the hassle of making multiple trips or driving an unfamiliar vehicle yourself.
6. Teach Your Teen Responsible Car Ownership
Once the car is in your driveway, take time to teach your teenager about responsible car ownership. This includes:
- Regular maintenance checks (oil changes, tyre pressure, etc.).
- Safe driving habits, such as avoiding distractions and adhering to speed limits.
- Understanding basic car functions and emergency protocols (e.g., changing a flat tyre).
Leaving It in Your Capable Hands
Buying a 17-year-old their first car is a big decision, but with thoughtful planning, it can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Focus on safety, affordability and reliability to ensure you make the right choice. If the car you choose is located in another city—like Manchester—reliable shipping services make it easy to get the car delivered safely to Liverpool. With the perfect car and the right guidance, your teenager will be ready to hit the road confidently and responsibly.
