Everyone remembers getting on the road for the first time as a new or learner driver. Nothing like that feeling of freedom or the sense of adventure awaits. Purchasing your new car can be a little trickier; there’s so much information out there that it’s natural to feel overwhelmed or confused.
We’ve all been there, so Liberty Insurance has put together five key questions to help you narrow down your choices and ensure you get the best start on your driving life.
New or Second-hand?
For most people, the first car they buy is usually used, perhaps even several years old. Second-hand cars tend to be more affordable, as cars depreciate more in their first couple of years on the road. A used car also means you don’t have to worry too much about getting the odd scratch on the paintwork – most cars will pick up a couple of bangs and bruises over time.
If you have a higher budget, there are benefits to buying a new car, including a warranty, service pack, or low-interest rates on loans. It pays to visit your local dealership and check out national consumer advice guides to ensure you buy the right car for you and your circumstances.
Manual or Automatic?
For a long time, most of the cars in Ireland had a manual transmission, i.e., a gear stick you had to manually move to guide the car up and down its gears. Automatic transmission – where the car moves through the gears – has become much more popular in recent years. There are several reasons for this: automatic cars are more comfortable to drive in traffic, and many consider them easier for learner drivers to use, as they avoid the common challenges of starting on a hill or cutting out at traffic lights.
However, it’s important to remember that automatic cars are usually more expensive, and older models can also be less efficient to drive. Crucially for novice drivers, a successful driving test in an automatic car means you can drive only cars with automatic transmissions. In contrast, a successful driving test in a manual car means you can both. Speak to your driving instructor to learn more about both options.
Diesel, Petrol, Electric or Hybrid?
How we fuel our cars is a big topic of conversation for environmental and financial reasons. Much can depend on your personal preferences, annual mileage, and purchasing and fuelling budget. While we’ve come a long way in terms of charging stations in Ireland, where you live might also have a bearing on your choices.
The Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) reported that new electric car registrations reached their highest month on record in January 2022, which means that more electric vehicles (EVs) should be filtering down to the used car market over the next couple of years. In the meantime, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) has a lot of good information that can help you narrow down your choices and determine the best option.
Quality Components: Ensuring a Smooth Drive
When choosing your first car, it’s not just the make and model that matters but also the quality of its components. A crucial part of this is the car’s gearbox. The gearbox is essential for a smooth driving experience, especially for new and learner drivers who are just getting accustomed to the roads.
For those interested in the technical aspects of their vehicle or perhaps even looking into more advanced car models, understanding the importance of a high-quality gearbox is key. Gearboxes like those made by Motovario are renowned for their durability and efficiency. The quality of Motovario gearboxes is a testament to the importance of reliable components in ensuring your car operates smoothly and efficiently. Whether you opt for a manual or an automatic transmission, as discussed earlier, the quality of the gearbox can make a significant difference in your driving experience.
Mini or Minivan?
Like people, cars come in all shapes and sizes, and you must take the time to choose the right one for you. Many learners or newly-qualified drivers prefer to start small so they’re not under too much pressure when navigating narrow streets or squeezing into tiny parking spaces.
However, depending on your commute, family size or personal preference, you might decide to move up through the models – talking to a salesperson in a car dealership will help you figure out the right car for you. If you regularly use a wheelchair, a pram, a bicycle or a set of golf clubs, it might be a good idea to bring it to the car showroom to see if it fits in the car’s boot. You know it’s probably not the car for you if it doesn’t.
Third Party Only, Third Party Fire & Theft or Fully Comprehensive?
All drivers, whether learners, newly qualified, or experienced, have to have motor insurance. Most people will choose between Comprehensive, Third Party Fire and Theft or Third Party Only insurance, but it’s unclear which option is best for you. Both policies offer protection and peace of mind, but one might suit you more, depending on your circumstances, budget, and car. The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission is a great resource to help you compare the two policy options.
The most important thing is to get car insurance you can trust. Accidents can happen to anyone; you’ll want someone in your corner when things go wrong. Find a great value car insurance quote from Liberty Insurance.
Whatever you choose to drive and wherever you prefer to go, Liberty Insurance is here for all motorists, including learners and newly qualified drivers. Life’s complicated – but your car insurance doesn’t have to be.
*Correct as of 28/02/2022.
This article has been written and provided by Liberty Insurance #ad
