A Used Car Buying Guide for Young Drivers

While it might have been what seems like a lifetime ago, the team at Rainbow Motors still remembers the sweet feeling of freedom when you finally get behind the wheel of your very own car. Still, buying your first vehicle as a young driver can feel a little overwhelming. From getting approved for financing to auto insurance, not to mention actually finding a car that fits your vibe, the process can seem daunting. Thankfully, here at Rainbow Motor Sales, we’ve helped countless students and young drivers embark upon their first car-buying journey with ease. We can help you get approved, get a low-interest rate, and get the best deal on a quality vehicle. Here are a few steps to follow that can help make the process a little easier!

Step 1: Find the Right Fit

As a young driver, we’re assuming your vehicle will serve as a reliable travel companion for daily commutes to school and work and maybe a few weekend road trips in between! ;) Before getting too carried away with features, it’s important to narrow down the basic needs according to your lifestyle. Maybe your commute to campus is more than an hour away, making a fuel-efficient vehicle an attractive option. Or perhaps you require a vehicle with AWD to safely drive through the Michigan winters. Getting clear on your basic non-negotiables when it comes to your car’s features and specs will save you from needing to buy another in the near future. From there, you can think of some nice-to-haves, like infotainment or exterior design.

Step 2: What’s Your Budget?

Now that you’ve decided on the type of vehicle that aligns with your lifestyle, it’s time to determine your budget. If you’re planning on seeking out an auto loan, it’s critical that you find a payment plan that you can commit to and is within your means. We recommend that your monthly car payments do not exceed 10% to 15% of your monthly income. At Rainbow Motors, our team of helpful financial specialists can help you find flexible financing solutions, even if your credit is limited as a young driver. Also, be sure to factor in the ongoing costs of owning a vehicle, such as gas, maintenance, and insurance.

Step 3: Auto Insurance

As a first-time driver, it’s important to have the right car insurance policy to ensure you’re always protected on the road. Car insurance is mandatory in almost every state, but be sure to only pay for the coverage you need. State minimums and coverage types vary, but nearly all states that mandate insurance require liability coverage for property damage and bodily injury. You might also consider combining your auto insurance with your current coverage, if any. For example, if you already have renter’s insurance, you might be able to merge it with auto insurance to get a better deal. 

Ready to get behind the wheel of your first vehicle? Browse our inventory of quality used vehicles at Rainbow Motor Sales today, or give us a call to learn more! Our team will be happy to walk you through the entire vehicle buying process to ensure your first experience is as seamless as possible!