5 Steps to Find a Safe Used Car for a New Indiana Driver

Buying a first car is an exciting milestone for any new driver. It can also bring plenty of questions, especially for parents helping a teenager shop. Price is important, but safety, condition, reliability, and everyday needs should also guide the decision.

Drivers in Indiana face changing road conditions year-round, from heavy rain to snow and ice. That makes choosing the right vehicle even more important. If you are searching for an Indiana safe car, an online public auction can give you many used vehicles to consider.

We’ve broken down five steps you must take to find a safe used car for new Indiana drivers. Let us help you research your options and prepare before you buy.

Step 1: Decide What Your New Driver Needs

Start by thinking about how the new driver will use the vehicle. Someone driving a few miles to school each day may have different needs than someone commuting to work on the highway. Consider how many passengers the vehicle will normally carry, how much cargo space is needed, and how many miles it may travel each week.

Vehicle size also matters. A new driver should feel comfortable after inspecting the vehicle, parking it, and controlling it in traffic. Practical performance and useful safety features are often more valuable for teenage drivers than extra horsepower or luxury equipment.

Set a total budget before you start shopping. The purchase price is only one expense. Insurance, fuel, registration, and other costs can add up. A low purchase price may seem attractive at first. However, a vehicle that needs major repairs may cost more over time.

Step 2: Research Used-Car Safety Before You Shop

Start your safety research before you place a bid. Instead of relying on a vehicle's general reputation, research the exact model year you are considering. Safety equipment and crash performance can change from one year or trim level to another.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration uses a five-star safety rating system. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety also performs crash tests and evaluates crash-prevention technology. These resources can help you compare pre-owned vehicles before you decide which ones deserve a closer look.

Look for useful equipment such as electronic stability control, antilock brakes, airbags, and, when available, a backup camera. Some newer used vehicles may also offer driver-assistance technology.

Remember that a strong safety rating tells you how that type of vehicle performed in testing. It does not tell you the current condition of the specific used vehicle you are considering. That comes later in the shopping process.

Step 3: Compare the Vehicles Currently Available

Once you understand the new driver's needs and know what safety features to research, start comparing actual vehicles.

Indiana Public Auto Auction (IPPA) offers a frequently changing selection of used vehicles through our online auctions. Inventory may include finance company and bank repossessions, dealership trade-ins, public consignments, and donated vehicles.

Don’t commit to one specific make or model before you shop. Browse our available models and compare the choices that are actually available. IPAA's inventory changes regularly, with all types of vehicles appearing in our listings.

For each possible vehicle, compare its:

• Model year
• Mileage
• Vehicle type
• Listed condition
• Fit for the driver's daily routine

Then check the safety information you researched in Step 2. This approach gives you more reliable options to consider without becoming attached to one vehicle.

Step 4: Inspect and Research a Vehicle Before Bidding

A vehicle with good safety ratings still needs to be evaluated as an individual used vehicle. Age, mileage, and repairs can all affect its current condition.

Read the auction listing carefully before bidding. Inspect the vehicle or have a qualified professional look at it. Pay close attention to safety-related parts and signs of wear.

Check the tires and tread, brakes, exterior condition, and seat belts. Listen to the engine and watch for warning lights. Test the heating and air conditioning when possible.

Research the vehicle's history and title information. This can help you learn more about its past before you commit to a purchase.

Factor possible repairs into your budget. For example, a lower-priced vehicle may still be a poor fit if it needs tires, brake work, or other major repairs right away.

Our terms place responsibility on buyers to verify vehicle information and seller representations. Researching a vehicle before bidding is an important part of the process.

Step 5: Set Your Budget and Prepare for the Online Auction

We are open to everyday buyers and dealers. You don't need a dealer license to participate in its public online auctions, which is a key difference from dealer-only auctions.

Getting started is straightforward. First, register for an account. Then browse the inventory before auction day, research the vehicles that interest you, and decide on a firm maximum bid.
IPAA currently holds its public online auctions every Tuesday at 6 p.m., and most vehicles are posted online before the auction begins.

Your winning bid may not be your final total cost. When setting your limit, plan for auction fees, taxes, registration expenses, and possible repairs. Avoid increasing your bid simply because another buyer keeps bidding.

If you win, IPAA states that buyers generally have two days to arrange transportation.

Already have a vehicle you no longer need? You can sell your vehicle to us.

Quick Pre-Bid Safety Checklist for a New Driver

• Does this vehicle fit the driver's normal commute and everyday needs?
• Have I researched safety ratings for this specific model year?
• Does it have the safety equipment I want?
• Have I inspected its condition or arranged an inspection when possible?
• Have I researched its history and title information?
• Have I estimated any repairs it may need?
• Have I checked the likely insurance cost?
• Have I set a firm maximum bid?
• Have I included auction fees and transportation in my total budget?

A good first vehicle should make sense for both safety and finances. Taking a little extra time before bidding can help you make a more informed choice.

Find Your Next Used Vehicle With Indiana Public Auto Auction

Indiana Public Auto Auction is one of the largest public auto auctions in the Midwest. We have operated from our Indianapolis facility since 2009. IPAA is also a member of the National Association of Public Auto Auctions and follows the organization's code of ethics.

With new inventory appearing regularly, there are always different vehicles to research and compare. Browse our current inventory, register for an upcoming online auction, or contact us with questions about getting started.