Top Tips for Buying Your First Car: Essential Advice for New Drivers

What should you know before buying your first car? This guide takes you through the essential steps: assessing your needs, researching options, understanding costs, and finalizing your purchase.

Key Takeaways

Assess Your Needs and Budget

Before diving into the car market, take a moment to assess your personal needs and budget. Start by considering how you’ll finance your purchase:

Next, create a checklist of essential features that match your lifestyle:

• Choosing a car that fits both your lifestyle and budget will ensure your new vehicle meets your needs without financial strain.
• And lastly, is this a car you can afford to not only buy but also maintain and run over the next few years. There is no point in buying a car that costs hundreds of euros to service, repair and maintain on top of general running costs.
• What is the cost of the Motor Tax? Different car engines and emissions will incur different tax costs. Factor this into the overall yearly cost.
• What is the insurance cost of the car you are thinking of buying? If it's high now it is almost guaranteed to be higher again next year given the rising cost of insurance each year.
• Identify any additional features you deem necessary.
• Consider the fuel type.
• Consider the size of the car.
• Are you a learner driver, a novice or do you have some driving experience? This can impact the type of car you get, does it suit your ability? Is it something you can safely manage?
• Determine if you need a compact car for city driving or something larger for family trips.

Choosing a car that fits both your lifestyle and budget will ensure your new vehicle meets your needs without financial strain.

Research and Compare Options

Now that you have a clear idea of what you need, it’s time to dive into research. Websites like DoneDeal are excellent resources for finding used cars and comparing prices across different platforms to ensure you get the best deal. Remember, the more you research, the more informed your decision will be. But be aware, private sales leave you with less consumer protection that buying through a dealership.

Reading reviews and gathering opinions from seasoned car owners can also refine your choices. Comparing cars within the same category helps pinpoint the best options that suit your criteria.

Don’t forget to apply online for any necessary documentation or financing to streamline the process.

Test Driving and Inspecting Cars

Test driving a car is a non-negotiable step in the buying process. Start with a thorough visual inspection to assess the car’s condition, looking for signs of damage or wear. This is especially important in a used car. A vehicle history check can reveal past accidents and hidden issues, ensuring you’re not inheriting someone else’s problem. If buying through a dealer they are obligated to disclose this information which is another level of consumer protection afforded by going this route.

During the first time test drive, pay attention to how the car handles, its comfort level, and any unusual sounds. This is your chance to see if the car meets your expectations in real-world driving conditions. Try to test drive when the road is not jammed with rush hour traffic so you get to see how the car handles at normal road speeds and typical conditions. There is no point in test driving a car and not being able to get out of 2nd gear, you will not get a feel for how it handles or drives at say the 50km speed limit or even 30km. Pick your test drive time wisely and also the route you want to take. A bit of research before hand will maximise your time in the car.

Don’t forget to verify if there are any outstanding financial obligations on the money car before making a purchase.

Understanding Additional Costs

Owning a car isn’t just about the purchase price; there are various additional costs to consider: Regular checks

• Fuel
• Maintenance
• Motor Tax
• Car insurance

Young drivers often face higher insurance premiums, but low-risk driving schemes can offer discounts. Insurance companies categorize cars into groups. These groups are based on such factors as repair costs, engine size and this can impact your premium. Additionally, regular servicing is essential for maintaining your car’s condition and should be factored into your budget. Fuel expenses, often overlooked, represent a significant ongoing cost and should be planned for.

The Purchase Process Explained

Once you’ve finalized your choice of vehicle, it’s time to negotiate the price. Preparation is key:

• Research the vehicle’s market value to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.
• Don't be afraid to negotiate, especially if you are paying cash, dealerships may off discounts for cash buyers.
• Dealerships can run special offers and discounts at certain times of the year, it is wise to check out not only their website but the social media channels as well, there may be offers to be had that they are only advertising through their social channels. It could offer you a significant saving or allow you to look at a higher spec car with more safety features that may have been out of your price range otherwise, extra safety features can also help save you money on insurance premiums. 

Reviewing paperwork is a crucial step before completing the transaction. Ensure all necessary documents, including the title and bill of sale, are in order. Arrange the collection of your vehicle only after all payments are cleared and paperwork is complete.

Buying from a Dealer vs Private Seller

First stop visit Buying a car CCPC so you are armed with all the right and up to date information regarding your rights and the protections afforded to you by law. Buying from a dealer often provides more consumer protections, including warranties and accountability for any faults. Dealers typically offer a higher level of support and legal compliance, which can offer peace of mind. However, this often comes at a higher price compared to private sales.

On the other hand, purchasing from a private seller can be quicker and potentially cheaper, but it requires thorough checks to avoid pitfalls. The risks include limited recourse for defects or issues after the sale is completed. And if you have limited or no knowledge of engines and how to look for other signs of defects, collisions and repairs it is always wise to take along someone who does know and also check out sites such as Sign In – Motorcheck or Cartell, there are more available out there but be aware that you can incur fees for checking but it can be worth it for the piece of mind. You can also visit Motor Tax Online to check out change of ownership within the last 3 months.

It is worth looking at both the pros and cons so you can decide the best option for you.

Exploring Black Box Insurance

Black box insurance, a type of telematics insurance, tracks your driving behaviour and can promote safer driving habits. This can be particularly beneficial for new drivers, as it may lower premiums based on actual driving performance.

However, it’s important to note that the black box monitors your driving at all times, including instances of heavy braking or fast acceleration. Having a dash cam can provide additional evidence should any questions arise about your driving habits.

So what does a Black Box record?

It will record and monitor:

1. How far you drive
2. The time of your journey
3. The locations of your drive, start, finish and the route taken.
4. How long the journey was.
5. Your barking and acceleration, was it heavy and fast.
6. How you handle corners.
7. Your average speed.

You are able to access the data collected by your insurer about your driving via their web portal, they will give you log in details so you can access this information and allow you to track any changes etc. This can also help you become a better and safer driver and help you reduce future insurance costs.

Another up side of this technology is that your black box can* work as a tracking device should your car be stolen. By monitoring the location of your car it allows your insurer and the Gardai to know exactly when and where your car was taken. It can also assist in making a claim.

Now for the downsides!

There are privacy issues, your journey, location is constantly tracked reducing your privacy. You might feel uncomfortable with a Big Brother type eye following your every driving move and for some people this can make them uncomfortable.

You can have limits imposed on you and your driving by this technology and the policy it allows you to get. These limits can be in the form of a curfew, so no driving after or before a certain time.

It can also impose penalties for exceeding certain speed limits.

And you may also be restricted in how far you can travel distance wise. This means you may only be able to travel a set number of kilometres during the life time of the policy. This can leave some feeling that their freedom is restricted right when they are leaving behind the rules of childhood and school and getting some freedom in the world.

There may be the option to 'top up' you travel distance but this will incur and charge and should be factored into the over all yearly running of your car and the policy total. It is a really good idea there fore to research the options, penalties and restrictions imposed by this type of policy.

But for some drivers, this can be their only option and route to driving. Research is your best friend here. Read all the conditions, make sure you are fully aware of the terms of the policy so you don't put yourself at risk of voiding the policy by straying outside them.

Post-Purchase Essentials

After purchasing your car, maintaining it in good condition is crucial. Key maintenance steps include:

Driving safely not only ensures your safety but also extends the life of your vehicle. Regular maintenance and drive safely habits will keep your car in top condition for years to come.

Addressing issues early during servicing to prevent costly repairs.

Ensuring annual servicing to maintain roadworthiness.

Reading the owner’s manual to understand maintenance schedules and safety features. For this we always advise, ask as many questions ass possible when checking out the car. There is no point in driving away and not knowing that you have to pull up a lever on the gear stick to reverse!!!

Best First Cars for New Drivers in 2025

Choosing the right first car can set the tone for your driving experience. The Toyota Yaris is favoured for its exceptional reliability, low insurance costs, and good fuel efficiency. The Dacia Sandero, Ireland’s most affordable new cars, offers essential features at a low price point, making it ideal for new drivers.

Other excellent options include:

1. The Suzuki Swift, a reliable and affordable option, offering a good balance of power, handling and safety features that is easy to use. It is also reliable and easy to maintain, service and run
2. The Mazda 2, known for its lightweight and agile handling.
3. The Ford Fiesta, which gives a great combination of driving dynamics and affordability.
4. The Volkswagen Polo, which is a little more of an upscale experience but may attaract higher insurance premiums due to the profile for Polos and Golf among some young drivers. 

Car Insurance Tips for New Drivers

Car insurance is compulsory for new drivers, and understanding the policies can help select the appropriate coverage. AIG offers tailor-made insurance policies for young drivers, including telematics insurance. Typically, drivers under 25 years old face higher premiums due to a perceived higher risk.

Exploring different insurance options and understanding the factors that affect premiums can help new drivers find the best deal. It’s essential to compare policies and consider factors like coverage, deductibles, and customer service.

Companies such as bonkers.ie, Chill, 123.ie, quotedevil.ie can all help you find and compare multiple insurance policies and cover.

Car insurance groups indicate the level of risk associated with insuring a specific vehicle, which helps determine premium amounts. New drivers often face higher premium costs due to their lack of experience, which is reflected in the insurance groups.

One way to reduce car insurance expenses is by choosing a car from a lower insurance group. So steering away from cars that have a higher profile among younger drivers that attract attention from insurance companies for higher claims and from Gardai can help. Young or novice drivers may benefit from telematics insurance, which monitors their driving habits and can help lower their premiums.

Ways to Save on Car Insurance

Telematics car insurance, or black box insurance, may be more affordable for young or learner drivers, helping manage costs effectively. This system incentivizes safer driving practices by providing feedback and potentially lowering premiums based on driving behaviour.

Other ways to save on car insurance include increasing your voluntary excess, bundling insurance policies, and maintaining a clean driving record. Shopping around and comparing different insurers can also help you find the best rates.

You may also be able to get someone with named driving policy history as a named driver on your policy or you might be able to get on for example your parents policy as a named driver with a lower insurance coverage. It is worth talking to a broker about your options.

Managing Running Costs

Managing running costs is essential for novice drivers to ensure budget control throughout car ownership. Using apps like Pumps.ie can help locate the cheapest fuel stations nearby, reducing fuel expenses.

Petrol station apps may offer discounts at increasing levels. So the more you fill up the more you can get off. For example, Circle K offers between 1c and 3c off per litre, you start at 1c and move between the levels as you fill up. Certa allows you to collect points on your Tesco club card which can earn you money off vouchers that you can use for shopping or to avail of other offers like upgrade experiences.

Payzone parking while allowing you to pay for parking card and coin free also offers 3c per litre discounts on fuel in Circle K. You may also be able to bundle this with the Circle K app offer to maximise your discount earing you up to a max of 6c off per litre. Couple this with pumps.ie and finding the cheapest outlet near you can reduce you cost per litre by as much as 10c if not more. It is wise to shop around and take advantage of the benefits on offer.

As the supermarkets says, every little helps!!!

Practicing efficient driving techniques, such as avoiding excessive revving and utilizing higher gears early, can enhance fuel economy. Regularly rotating your wheel tires not only promotes safety but also ensures better fuel efficiency by maintaining even tire wear.

Additionally, registering for a toll tag can simplify toll payments and often provides lower rates on toll roads. Look at different providers, E Flow offer video and tag rates, Payzone off toll and parking so you might save by bundling and there are Easytrip and TollTag, look at the offers, rates and what else they offer you for your custom. Maximise the benefits you can get so you can save on parking, tolls and fuel where possible.

Essential Driver Training (EDT)

Essential Driver Training (EDT) is a crucial part of the RSA’s Graduated Driver Licensing scheme aimed at enhancing road safety. If you hold a learner permit for a car, you must complete EDT sessions with an RSA-approved instructor, as they are a relevant driver in your training process.

The course consists of 12 individual 1-hour sessions that cover various aspects of driving during this period. An experienced driving licence holder, such as a family member or close friend, can accompany you during these sessions, providing additional support and guidance, or you may choose to drive unaccompanied with an accompanying driver. The licence is essential for ensuring you meet the necessary requirements.

Learner Permits and Rules

To apply for a learner permit, you need to provide proof of identity and residence and be of age to apply. You must also pass your theory test and an eye test. The application fee for a new learner permit is €45. You must hold your first learner permit for at least six months before taking the driving test. Failure to pass or sit your driving test in 2 years will mean you cannot renew your permit. Check out RSA - Maintaining a driver’s learner permit for more information. You can also apply online through the RSA website for your learners permit or in person at an NDLS centre. Be aware there can be a line and a wait for the in person application. You must also complete EDT training on your first permit. Permits lapsed longer than 5 years will require you to pass the theory test again.

Learner drivers are subject to specific rules:

1. They must be accompanied by a fully licensed driver at all times. The licenced driver cannot be a novice driver but have held their licence for more than 2 years.
2. They are not allowed to drive on Motorways and this includes the slip roads between junctions!
3. The learner permit is valid for 2 years.
4. Penalty points for learner drivers is half those of the points that a fully licence holder can incur before they are taken off the road. A full licence can incur a max of 14 points where a learner may incur 7 and lose the right to drive. Not only will it cost you money to incur points through penalties but will impact your insurance renewal. So drive within the speed and to the rules of the road!

Displaying L Plates and N Plates

Learner drivers must display ‘L’ plates on both the front and back of their vehicle to indicate they are still learning. After obtaining a full first driving licence, learner and novice drivers are required to display ‘N’ plates for the first two years to signify their inexperience, including the use of novice plates.

These plates must be red on a white background and meet specific size requirements to ensure visibility. Failure to display L or N plates can result in fines and penalty points on your license.

Failing to display N or L plates results in a €60 fine if paid within 28 days, increasing to €90 afterward.

Placing your L or N plates on backwards does nothing to alert other drivers to your status, if stopped at a checkpoint you will be asked to fix them properly as they are not displayed according to current guidelines. 

Understanding Penalty Points System

The penalty points system in Ireland is designed to enhance road safety by penalizing driving offences. Key points include:

1. Penalty points remain on your record for 3 years. This can and will have an impact on future renewals while they remain on your record. 
2. As a full licence holder 12 points will result in a 6 month driving ban.
3. For learner permit holders, accumulating 7 points can lead to you being disqualified from driving. 

New drivers accumulating 7 points during their first 2 years can have their driving licence taken away in Ireland.

Failing to display L or N plates can result in fines and penalty points. It’s crucial to adhere to all road safety rules to avoid accumulating points and facing potential disqualification. Remember, small offences can quickly get you to 7 points very fast. Offences such as reversing onto major roads can earn you up to 3 points. Look up the RSA website for further information.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I finance my first car purchase?

To effectively finance your first car purchase, explore options such as cash payments, auto loans, or leasing. Choose the method that aligns best with your financial situation and budget. Also look at the finance options your dealership, if buying from there, offers. Check out you local credit union and bank also.

What should I look for during a test drive?

During a test drive, focus on the car's handling, comfort, and any unusual noises while also performing a visual inspection for damage. These factors can significantly influence your driving experience and the vehicle's overall condition. Pick your test drive time carefully, you don't want to be test driving during rush hours where you chances of getting out of 2nd are greatly reduced! Pick a route that avoids schools, there will be more traffic outside of rush hours on this route. What route offers you the best chance at a driving experience? Are there lots of stops, lights, roundabouts? These can also help you test the agility and braking distance of the car. Try to avoid typical black spots for congestion, so for us here in Gerry Caffrey Motors we would stay away from driving towards Harolds Cross Bridge as the lights might not be the best, it can become a bottle neck and there are also schools along that route. If test driving from a dealer ask their advice, they do this day in, day out. But also factor in your own comfort. Would you be comfortable driving the route they pick? perhaps you might be nervous or wary. If you are not comfortable do not go there.

Are there additional costs to owning a car?

Yes, owning a car involves additional costs such as insurance, motor tax, maintenance, fuel, and routine inspections. It's important to budget for these expenses beyond the initial purchase price.

What is black box insurance?

Black box insurance is a telematics-based policy that monitors your driving habits, potentially reducing your premiums if you demonstrate safe driving behaviours. This system encourages responsible driving and can lead to significant savings on your insurance costs.

What are the requirements for a learner permit in Ireland?

To obtain a learner permit in Ireland, you must provide proof of identity and residence, pass an eye test, and pay a fee of €45. Ensure you meet these requirements to proceed with your application. Also be aware of the changes to permits beyond the second one. Visit the RSA website for further information on permits and renewals.