Buying a first car for your son or daughter
A parent-and-new-driver checklist covering suitability, ownership, financing, insurance and the real cost of an affordable first car.
- Choose for the actual driver
- Separate purchase price from ownership cost
- Agree the legal and financial arrangement
Before you decide
A first car brings independence, but it also creates responsibilities. Before choosing the model, agree who will drive, own, pay for and maintain it.
The decision is easier when the parent and new driver share the same priorities. A car that looks exciting but is difficult to park or expensive to repair may not be the most useful first step.
Choose for the actual driver
Check seating position, visibility, control layout and manoeuvrability. Let the intended driver try the car in an appropriate setting. Size, power and equipment should suit their ability and daily needs, not an assumption about what boys or girls prefer.
Review the exact safety specification and the condition of the car. An attractive badge does not replace good tyres, maintenance or a proper inspection.
Separate purchase price from ownership cost
Work out fuel, parking, tolls, servicing, insurance and a repair reserve. Decide who pays each item. If the student or young worker contributes, use an amount they can realistically sustain.
An older premium car can be inexpensive to buy while still having premium repair costs. Obtain model-specific estimates before treating it as a cheap first car.
Agree the legal and financial arrangement
Who will be the borrower? Who will be registered as owner? Who is the regular driver? Explain the real arrangement to the lender and insurer.
Some first-car schemes consider eligible students or recently employed graduates, potentially with a guarantor. That is not a promise of approval or proof that every used car qualifies. Get the relevant scheme terms and assessment.
Quote insurance accurately
Age, licence status and named-driver conditions can affect the policy and excess. Ask about the actual driver instead of assuming the cheapest quotation applies.
A parent's no-claim discount does not automatically belong to the child. Do not provide inaccurate driver information to reduce the premium.
Make the handover practical
Show the new owner how to check tyre pressures, recognise warning lights, arrange servicing and contact assistance. Keep the service schedule, insurance and warranty information accessible.
A sensible first car is not simply one the family can buy. It is one the new driver can use, understand and help look after.
Browse available cars
Compare available cars, or ask the PCC team about your requirements.
