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Buying a used car , Costs and money , Safety and breakdowns , Travel and everyday · Actualizado el 2026-10-18

Buying a first car for a new driver

A first car is exciting, and it is easy to choose with the heart. For a new driver, the sensible choice is a car that is safe, affordable to run, easy to drive and forgiving of mistakes. It does not need to be fast or fashionable. This guide helps new drivers and the parents who often help them.

Put safety first

New drivers have little experience and need a car that helps them. Look for:

• Good crash-test results for the model, where available.
• Stability control and anti-lock brakes. See ABS, ESP and assists.
• Working airbags, seatbelts and good visibility all round.
• Modern driver aids if the budget allows, such as parking sensors or a rear camera.

Be wary of tiny, very old cars with few safety features, even if they are cheap. Read about the basics in the emergency kit checklist too, and put one in the car.

Keep power modest

A powerful engine gives a new driver more speed than they can manage. A small or medium engine is cheaper to insure, uses less fuel and is more forgiving. A car does not need to be quick to be pleasant.

Think about size

A compact car is easier to park and to handle in traffic. Very small cars can feel nervous on motorways, while very large ones are hard to judge in tight spaces. A medium hatchback is often a good compromise, but test a few and see what feels natural.

Consider transmission

An automatic car removes one of the learning challenges, but may cost more to buy or fix. A manual gives control and is common. Pick the one the driver learned on and is comfortable with. See manual vs automatic.

Count the running costs

Young drivers often face higher insurance, so check quotes before you buy any car. The price of the car is only part of the story. Fuel, servicing, tyres and repairs add up, as explained in set your budget: total cost and in insurance types explained. Use the cost of ownership tool to compare models. A cheap car with a hungry engine or costly parts can be a poor deal for a new driver on a small budget.

Choose simple and common

A popular model with simple technology usually means cheaper parts, many workshops that know it and an easy resale. Complicated or rare cars often cost more to fix, which is the last thing a new driver needs.

Condition beats age

A well-maintained older car is better than a neglected newer one. Ask for the service history, check the VIN with our VIN checker and inspect the car with the buying checklist. The guide on how to inspect a used car is useful if you have never done it. Bring an experienced friend or relative, or pay a workshop to inspect it. Newcomers are easier targets for sellers, so extra help is wise.

Be careful with sellers

First-time buyers are a typical target for scams and glossy stories. Do not pay in advance, do not buy a car you have not seen and read scams and fake ads. Our roadmap for the whole process is the used car buying roadmap.

Prepare to learn about the car

A new driver should know the basics of checking the car, such as tyre pressure, oil and coolant levels, and what the warning lights mean. See dashboard warning lights and tyre pressure and rotation. A logbook in My Garage helps build the habit of tracking costs and deadlines.

Involving the family

Many first cars are bought with help from parents or relatives. It works best when everyone agrees early on the budget, who pays for insurance, fuel and repairs, and what rules apply to using the car. Talking about these things before the purchase avoids arguments later. A written list of agreements may sound formal, but it keeps expectations clear.

Encourage the new driver to take extra practice, such as a safe driving course or time on quiet roads with an experienced person. The car is only half of safe driving; the driver is the other half.

What to remember

• Safety first: stability control, ABS, airbags and good visibility.
• Modest engine, compact size, simple and common model.
• Check insurance quotes before you buy.
• Condition and history matter more than age.
• Bring experienced help when you inspect and buy.

Beginner Checklist Costs Family Insurance Safety Used car