Braking News with Brian: Dings, Dents, & Teens

If you’re like me and have parented teens, there will eventually come a time when you must consider getting them a car to drive. Ask yourself, “Do I really need to get them a car?” You will first answer NO, and then you will answer YES. I need to get this kid a car so I can get a break from driving them all over God’s creation! It’s their time to be the chauffeur for a while!  

But then reality hits. Car prices. Ouch. In our household, new cars were never an option. The kids got decade-old hand-me-downs or inexpensive used cars. Practical, affordable, and, most importantly, replaceable.  

As the owner of an auto repair shop, I’ve had access to plenty of decent used cars, which has been a blessing as the parent of eight children. Still, I eventually realized that instead of running an auto repair shop, I would have been better off owning a paint & body shop! 

I’ll never forget the joy of seeing my teenager sit behind the wheel of her first (very used) car, grinning from ear to ear. She proudly promised me she’d be the safest driver in family history. Twelve hours later, the minivan had a shattered right front wheel, a mutilated tire, and a bent strut. Thirty minutes after putting on the spare, the left front tire was destroyed by— you guessed it— a curb. And thus, the carnage began. 

From there, we saw dents from poles at gas stations, rear-ending other cars, distracted driving, and totaling out your neighbor’s car. Shortcuts through parking lots resulted in lost side mirrors, taillight assemblies, a front door, and so on. Not pretty, but reality.  

The truth is, becoming a good driver takes time and experience. We must be patient with our teens while they are learning to drive. Safe decision-making behind the wheel isn’t automatic, it’s learned through experience. If you've never had a teen driver, I can assure you that you’ll be scared to death the first time they head out alone.  

My wife and I have now been through eight teen drivers. Our experience has shown that the dings and dents are going to happen, whether it’s our child’s fault or not. Our decision to give our children used and well-worn cars as their first ride has paid off. They not only survived the learning years, but they also developed a true appreciation for the cars they own now. 

If you do decide to get a car for your teenager, make sure it fits the budget, fits your child, and fits their needs. And remember, whatever you buy, there’s a good chance it’ll be a “bang-up” car in the end!