How to Choose the Right Used Vehicle for College Students

Choosing the perfect used car for your college student child can be a lot. At Hi Lo we know parents are concerned about safety, reliability, and price. But we also know that students are interested in freedom, ease, and, let’s be honest, something that won’t be embarrassing to drive.

The best part? We’ve seen firsthand that the perfect used car can offer all of the above without breaking your budget. Whether your college student is commuting to and from class, heading home for the weekend, or fighting Maryland traffic and weather, the right car can make college life easier and safer.

Here’s how we help families consider the best used car for their needs.

Start With Realistic Budget Expectations

Before we dive into models, we always suggest having an open discussion about budget. This isn’t just about the price tag; it’s about what the car is going to cost you each month.

For most college students, we suggest that a good used car in the lower to mid-range price category is the way to go. “Newer isn’t always better,” especially if it comes with a higher insurance rate and a steeper depreciation curve. A good used car will often provide better value for the money while keeping costs in mind.

Other costs to budget for:

Registration and taxes
Maintenance
Gas
Insurance rates

Setting expectations early avoids stress later and helps narrow down the right options faster.

Safety Should Be Non-Negotiable

Safety considerations are even more important if the driver is still learning. Our advice would be to look at second-hand cars with good safety features and a good safety record.

The safety features we would recommend as a priority are:

Anti-lock brakes
Electronic stability control
Rearview cameras
Blind spot monitoring or lane departure warnings (which are common in newer second-hand cars)

Maryland drivers face all sorts of road conditions, from heavy traffic to rainy and snowy conditions. We understand the importance of a car that handles well, stops well, and has good visibility.

Reliability Beats Flash Every Time

The first car should be reliable, not complicated. In our experience, a car with a reputation for reliability will cost less in the long run and spend less time in the repair shop.

There’s a reason why compact sedans and hatchbacks are popular among college students. They are easier to park, more fuel-efficient, and less expensive to maintain. Small SUVs are also a viable option, particularly for students who need more room in the trunk or added traction in inclement weather.

The secret is to find a car that is known for being rugged and easy to maintain.

Keep Insurance Costs in Check

Insurance is often one of the biggest expenses we have. We regularly tell families that some automobiles cost much more in terms of insurance than others, regardless of sticker prices.

Generally, cheaper options to insure include:

Four-door sedans
Cars with solid safety ratings
Vehicles with Moderate Horsepower

On the other hand, sports cars, high-performance trims, and heavily modified rides tend to be more expensive to insure. Picking a sensible, reliable model from the get-go can save hundreds each year-money that could go toward textbooks, rent, or savings.

Financing That Makes Sense for Students and Parents

When it comes to financing your used car, as a college student, it is important that you feel comfortable, not overwhelmed. We prefer shorter loan terms with monthly payments that are manageable in order to avoid going into debt.

Additionally, some families may choose to co-sign to help the students build credit. Others may choose a car that is low enough to keep financing low or out of the picture altogether. There is no “correct” approach, only one that is appropriate to your family.

What is important is making sure everyone understands the payment, the length of the loan, and the aftermath after graduation.

Think About Daily College Life

When buying a new car, consider daily college life as well. Families should consider the following questions:

Campus Parking Limits
How far the commute is
Weekend Travel Plans
Storage needs

A smaller car might be just right for congested parking garages, but a hatchback style, on the other hand, makes getting into a dorm a bit easier. Fuel efficiency is probably more important than students realize, given the shorter trips.

A First Car Is About Confidence, Not Perfection

For students, a first car is about freedom. For parents, it’s about responsibility. We know that the right used car can fill that gap by providing safety, reliability, and affordability without the headache.

At Hi Lo Auto Sales, we recognize that this is more than just a car purchase, it’s a milestone. Our aim is to help Maryland families find a car that makes sense for real college life, not just what it says on paper.

If you look at safety, reliability, insurance, and financing, you’ll have a car that will support your student through college and beyond. Contact us when you’re ready. We’re here to help.