There's no denying it: buying a car for your teen can be a stressful experience. Not only do you need to come to terms with their newfound independence, but you also need to choose a vehicle that will get them reliably from point A to point B. Even if you plan to limit their driving, it's still important that their car can get them around with as little worry and stress as possible.

Of course, buying used is almost always ideal for a first car. Not only does it save you money, but it'll also mean that a few dents and dings won't be a major issue. Unfortunately, choosing the best used car is often easier said than done. If you're about to start shopping with your teen for their first ride, check out these three purchasing tips before heading to the lot.

1. Choose Modern Safety Features

Modern cars include plenty of features that make them safer to drive than their older counterparts. While airbags and antilock brakes are hardly new technologies, systems such as reverse cameras, lane departure warnings, and parking sensors are significantly more modern. Many of these features can reduce the likelihood of accidents and make driving a less stressful experience.

When considering a car for your teen, try to look at relatively new models that include at least some of these features. Although your new driver may be willing to go a little bit older in exchange for a fancier or more exciting model, you can help keep them safe by sticking with vehicles that include these newer technologies.

2. Focus on Visibility

Visibility is an often overlooked aspect of vehicle design, and many manufacturers attempt to compensate for poor visibility by including more cameras and sensors. However, it can often be challenging for new drivers to rely on these aids, especially in stressful situations. Ultimately, there's no substitute for a car with good all-around visibility.

While it may seem counterintuitive, higher vehicles such as SUVs and trucks typically have worse visibility. Sedans, hatchbacks, and similar cars make it easier to see pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles. When considering a car for your teen, choose one that will help them remain aware of their surroundings.

3. Avoid Over or Underpowered Vehicles

Vehicles are more powerful than ever, and even boring family sedans often come with high-output turbocharged engines. Unfortunately, powerful engines and new drivers make a poor combination. Even if your teen isn't prone to unsafe behavior such as stoplight drag racing, too much power can make a vehicle more challenging to control.

Underpowered vehicles can also be an issue since they may make lane changes and other simple maneuvers more challenging. In general, it's a good idea to strike a balance. You want to ensure you choose a vehicle with enough power for comfortable highway driving but not so much power that you're inviting trouble for your new driver.

For more information, contact a company such as Car Craft Auto Sales, Inc.