Harrisonburg Used Cars for Teens: What Should You Buy?
Your teen driver is dreaming of a Mazarati for their first car and you're thinking more along the lines of a good 2nd hand used car. Ah, such is the life of a teenager!
Finding a used car that is reliable, dependable, and gets a thumbs up from your teen isn't easy. Fortunately, Joe Bowman Auto Plaza's Harrisonburg used cars can make the task much easier.
But what is the best type of pre owned car to buy for your teen? Here's what the experts say.
The Best Type of Used Car for Your Teen
The good news is that vehicles are much safer than when you were a newly minted driver. That's because crash safety standards and government laws are more stringent. You'll find this to be true especially if you buy a newer model vehicle because they have more safety features.
But to buy the best used car possible for your teen, experts have some differing opinions. For example, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) recommends heavier, bigger vehicles. Think midsize sedans and SUV's.
However, the American Automobile Association advises against SUV's. But it is in agreement with IIHS in recommending midsize sedans.
The one vehicle type both organizations agree is a no-no is a small car. "Midsize sedans are the best choice for teens," says Tamra Johnson, manager of public relations for the Automobile Association of America. "Small cars don't offer as much protection in crashes, sporty cars may encourage speeding or recklessness, and SUVs and pickup trucks are more difficult to maneuver and more likely to roll over."
Features You Want in Harrisonburg Used Cars for Your Teen
To keep your teen as safe as possible, look for a late model midsize sedan. These vehicles are equipped with modern safety features such as:
• Electronic stability control
• Antilock brakes
AAA suggests you look for some of these features as well:
• A forward collision warning system--This warns the driver they are about to hit a vehicle. Or, that there is an object ahead. Some midsize sedans also have automatic emergency braking.
• Crash Notification System--In the event of an accident serious enough to activate airbags, it will notify authorities.
• Back up camera with rear cross-traffic alert--This gives your teen driver much more visibility to see animals, children, and other vehicles that are behind them.
What's more, Chevrolet is the latest auto manufacturer to take teen safety to the next level with their OnStar Family Link, a subscription service. OnStar Family Link is available on 2012 and newer models.
This service allows parents to set a maximum speed limit, speed warnings, radio volume, and forced safety assists, and much more on their teen's vehicle.
Other Features You Want In A Pre-Owned Car
No matter what Harrisonburg used car you choose to buy for your new driver, you want assurance that you're buying a quality preowned car. And we want that, too!
That's why at our dealership, all previously owned vehicles must pass a 75-point inspection to be eligible for sale on our used car lot.
And each preowned vehicle comes with a 30/90 warranty, depending on the age and mileage.
Service After the Sale
Once you feel assured that you've chosen the right vehicle for your new driver, you want to feel comfortable with the service department. Ask to take a tour and meet the service technicians who will maintain and repair your vehicle.
This is an important part of the buying equation! And because you bought your vehicle from Joe Bowman Auto Plaza, you will get a VIP appointment. That means that your vehicle will receive priority scheduling over someone who did not buy their vehicle from us.
And, for as long as you own the car, you will get a free yearly state inspections.
There's a lot to consider when it's time to buy a vehicle for your teen! We know that because we have kids of our own. That's why we do everything humanly possible to get your teen off to a safe and sporty time on the road!
