Your first car is exciting, but costs can quickly add up — especially insurance for new drivers.
A simple, reliable, cheap-to-insure car is usually the smartest choice.
Set a total budget
Include insurance, tax, fuel, servicing, and a repair buffer, not just the purchase price.
Get insurance quotes first
Insurance for new drivers can exceed the car’s value. Get quotes on specific models before you buy. Smaller engines and lower insurance groups help.
What to look for
- Good reliability record
- Full service history
- Recent inspection pass
- Good safety rating
- Cheap and available parts
Get help
Take an experienced friend to viewings, or pay for an independent inspection. Use our used car inspection checklist.
Questions to ask the seller
Ask how long they have owned the car, why they are selling, whether it has had any accidents, and when the cambelt (if it has one) and other major items were last replaced. Ask to see the car started from cold, as some problems are only obvious before the engine warms up. A seller who answers clearly and has paperwork to back it up is a good sign.
This is general car-buying information, not financial or legal advice. Prices, incentives, financing terms, and specifications change and vary by region — confirm all details in writing before you sign anything.