What You Need to Know Buying Your First Car

Owning a vehicle is an exciting process, but don’t get caught up in the haze and make a mistake – otherwise it could be costly. Here’s our simple to do list to keep you grounded when buying your first car.

As soon as you pass your driving test, the feeling becomes electric as you begin to consider driving your first car.

Buy cheap

We all have dreams of zooming past our old school or ex’s house in a smart Audi TT or even a Ferrari Portofino. But the reality is probably going to be somewhat different. Despite the want to splurge out on a fancy, expensive car – or even get one on finance, you need to be realistic, disciplined and smart.

You need to be aware that having a car is a luxury and not a necessity, and with it, comes a lot of money being spent on it. The more expensive the car, the more money that will go into and onto it.

With that, remember, you are a new driver. You have only just passed your test and finally able to drive alone in a car; and venture off out onto motorways. You are still learning the ropes and will be for several months. Listen to your parents when they suggest buying a “cheap runaround” to “get you from A to B” for the first year or so. Not only will it be an inexpensive purchase, and you’ll appreciate what you have, but should anything go wrong, it won’t cost an arm and a leg to fix.

Parking

Before buying your first car, ensure you know where you’re going to park your car at night when you’re home. You may not have a big driveway at your family home, so will there be ample room for it to be parked on the street outside? Is there a secure local car park it can be left in?

There’s no point having a car if you have nowhere you can park it – similarly, be sure you know where it can be parked during the day; be it at work or at your place of education. If there’s parking fees, make sure you always have change in the car ready to pay them or parking passes are set up as soon as possible.

Insurance and tax

Vital to ensure you’re legally allowed out onto the roads – setting up your insurance and car tax is very simple and straightforward. Just be sure to do it as soon as you can, and if you feel confused or troubled, seek out someone who already drives for advice. Shopping around is wise.

After care

Don’t see it as homework – see it as honing in your new found craft. GoGoGo offers after care courses to those who have passed their tests to brush up on driving skills and ensure you, as a new driver, feel safe and comfortable behind the wheel. The classes can go as in-depth as you like, covering every aspect of driving that won’t be covered during regular driving lessons due to legality. You can even take these courses in your new car to get used to its biting point and features.

Be safe – know that stepping behind the wheel, it’s not just your life you’re in control of.

Stock up on the essentials

Your car’s manual, a blanket, a road map, replacement bulbs and fuses, and a first aid kit should find a home quickly within your new car to ensure you’re prepared for whatever happens.

Oh, and make sure you pick a nice smelling air freshener!

Of course, if you want to discuss buying your first car, first you need to pass your test! Speak to us today about our successful 5 day intensive driving courses and be on the road as soon as next week.