Have you ever asked yourself, what kind of car do I want to buy? How do I buy a car? How much is insurance going to cost me? What are my must wants in the car? Is my budget enough to afford a car? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you’re in the right place: check out the top five pieces of advice for first time car owners.

1. Do your research: Know the process to buy a car 

For many people buying a car is a big purchase, so you want to figure out what kind of car is for you, and if you’re thinking of buying a new or used car. First off, start by researching what you want in a car, instead of how it looks. Many people go off of looks or what kind of car they’re familiar with, so start off by making a list of what you want in a car. For example, what do you care about most? Do you care about how safe the car is, how big the car is, does it have a front or back-facing camera? After you have made that list, now you have to think about whether you are going to buy a new or used car.

2. Budget

The budget is essential for what kind of car you will be able to afford. You can see if your budget will support the type of car because you also have to take into consideration all the extra expenses: gas, maintenance, insurance, monthly payments, license plates, registration, and more. Once you figure out all these expenses, you can start looking for a car to purchase.

3. Car recommendations for teens in Grayslake, IL

The following car recommendations for teens are affordable and easy to maintain. 

Honda Fit: Subcompact car

• Miles Per Gallon (MPG): Up to 40
• Horsepower 128 to 130

Chevy Malibu: Mid-Sized Car

• Miles Per Gallon (MPG): Up to 36
• Horsepower: 160 to 250

Kia Forte: Compact Car

• Miles Per Gallon (MPG): Up to 41
• Horsepower: 147 to 201 HP

4. Car Insurance 

The state of Illinois requires you to have some type of auto or liability insurance before you can legally drive the car. This is a contract between the car holder and the insurance company, so you have to figure out what car insurance rates can work for you, and if you want to get insurance on your own or as a family plan with your parents. Insurance mainly provides the car holder property, liability, and medical coverage. The property coverage provides protection for any damage to the car, and if the car is ever stolen. Liability insurance provides protection for any bodily injury or property damage, while medical coverage provides protection for treating injuries and rehabilitation. Overall, make sure to get car insurance as soon as you purchase that new car. 

5. After purchasing a car 

After purchasing your very own car, things that you may want to invest in for the safety of your car would be seat covers, floor mats, and to bookmark dates for oil changes. Now that you have purchased your very own car, congratulations! You are now a car owner!