Buying Your Teen Their First Car? 4 Things They Should Have Before They Start Driving

If you're buying your teen a car this year, you'll need to make sure that it's equipped with everything they'll need to stay safe. In addition to the sound engine, new brakes, and fresh coolant in the radiator, you'll also need to make sure that the car is equipped with things that your teen will need in an emergency. After all, you never know when they'll run into trouble while they're out and about. Here are four essential items your teen should have at their disposal while they're driving.

Roadside Assistance Plan

Now that your teen is going to have a car of their own, they're going to need a roadside assistance plan. Providing your teen with this service will ensure they have access to the help they need wherever they are. Roadside assistance plans provide beneficial assistance for things like vehicle lockouts, dead batteries, and even auto accidents. This service is particularly beneficial if your teen is going to be driving their car out of town from time to time. Talk to companies like Jim's Garage Inc. to learn more about preparing for these incidents.

A Full-Size Spare Tire

If your teen's new car is equipped with an emergency tire — one of those small donut-type tires — you're going to want to trade that in for a full-size tire. Those emergency tires are good for one use and not intended for long distances or freeway travel. If your teen has a flat tire far from home or will need to be driving on the freeway, you want to make sure that their spare tire is safe for them to drive on. Before your teen heads out of town for the first time, make sure they have a full-size spare tire in the trunk.

GPS Device

Now that your teen is going to be driving, make sure they know where they're going and how to get home. Equip their car with a working GPS device. If the car you purchase for them doesn't come equipped with a GPS system, purchase a portable device for them. However, make sure you update the data from time to time. That way, you know that the information your teen is receiving is accurate.

Emergency Pack

If your teen is going to be doing a lot of driving, you'll need to make sure that they have an emergency pack in the car at all times. This pack should include everything they'll need in an emergency, including water and snacks. For maximum protection, make sure they keep the pack in the car instead of the trunk. This will ensure that your teen doesn't need to get out of the car while they're waiting for assistance.