Safer cars for teen drivers
Consumer Reports has several safe, used cars to recommend that are relatively inexpensive, all in an effort to help prevent a tragic accident.
FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Timothy Hollister's son Reid got his license soon after he turned 16. He died in a car crash 11 months later. Speeding and lack of experience were to blame. Hollister says, "Parents and teens have to work together and approach the first year of driving with the utmost caution because there is no room for error."
One important thing parents can do is make sure their teen is driving the safest car possible. Consumer Reports' Auto Editor Jake Fisher explains, "It's really a mistake to buy a very old car for a new teen driver. It's going to lack some of the very important safety features that might save their lives."
Most important - electronic stability control, which helps keep drivers from spinning out or rolling over. Side curtain airbags are also critical. They not only provide a cushion, but they can help keep passengers inside during an accident. Fisher says the type of car also matters: "We recommend a midsized or a large sedan. They're lower to the ground so it makes them less prone to roll over. And they are easier to maneuver than a big SUV."
Consumer Reports has combed through its test results to find good used cars options that have the recommended safety features, are reliable and cost under $10,000.
They include:
The Hyundai Sonata Non Turbo 4-cylinder. Model years 2006 to 2010.
The Chevrolet Malibu four cylinder, 2009 to 2012.
And the Mazda 6I, 2009 to 2013.
In all, consumer reports has identified 10 used cars for under $10,000 that are good choices for teen drivers. You can get the complete list here.
