The dream of the first car is part of the reality of many Brazilians and usually marks an important achievement in adult life. More than mobility, the car represents independence and practicality in everyday life, whether for work, study or leisure.

Despite this, the decision requires caution. Without planning, what should be an achievement can become a financial problem. Costs such as maintenance, fuel, insurance and taxes need to be included in the account from the beginning to avoid surprises.

Below, check out 5 tips to turn your dream into reality with financial security!

1. Start with financial planning

Before taking any step towards purchasing, it is essential to organize your financial life. Understanding how much you earn, how much you spend and how much you can commit monthly is the starting point for a safe and sustainable decision.

“Financial planning is fundamental to getting your first car safely. Ideally, the person should have the habit of saving part of their income. incomesomething around 30%, to achieve greater goals. Without this control, the purchase can compromise other areas of financial life”, explains economist Odair Gomes Salles, professor of the Accounting Sciences course at Guarulhos University.

After organizing your finances, the next step is to decide how payment will be made. This choice directly impacts the budget and can influence the total cost of the vehicle over time.

“Acquiring your first car requires a good understanding of the payment method. In cash, there is more negotiating power and the possibility of discounts. When paying in installments, it is essential to assess whether the installments fit into the budget without compromising the monthly income. Furthermore, it is important to consider extra costs such as insurance, IPVA (Motor Vehicle Ownership Tax) and transfer”, advises Odair Gomes Salles.

With the budget defined, it’s time to choose the type of vehicle. This decision must take into account not only the purchase price, but also the maintenance cost and the purpose of day-to-day use.

“New cars offer a guarantee and lower maintenance risk at the beginning, but they suffer greater depreciation. Pre-owned cars are usually the best option for the first car, as they balance price and reliability. The important thing is to choose a vehicle that is within the financial reality and meets everyday needs”, says Marcos Bassani, investment analyst and partner at Boa Brasil Capital.

4. Full attention to origin and documentation

Especially in the case of used vehicles, checking the history is an essential step. Ignoring this precaution could result in losses and legal problems in the future.

“Before closing a deal, it is essential to check the origin of the vehicle, maintenance history, possible accidents and documentation status. It is also recommended to carry out a test drive and, if possible, have a mechanical assessment. This reduces risks and increases the security of the purchase”, highlights Marcos Bassani.

For those looking to save money, auctions appear as an interesting alternative. However, this type of purchase requires even more attention and knowledge from the customer. consumer.

“The auction can be a good entry point for those looking for their first car at a more affordable price, but it is essential to read the notice, understand the condition of the vehicle and check possible restrictions. The buyer needs to be aware that it is not always possible to test the car, so information and caution are essential to make a good deal”, explains Rogério Menezes, official auctioneer.

In the end, experts are unanimous in saying that the first car does not need to be perfect. It needs to be compatible with financial reality, reliable on a daily basis and capable of meeting the driver’s needs without compromising the budget.

By Sarah Monteiro