As the school year approaches, now is the perfect time to shop for a reliable used car for your student. At A. M. Maus and Son, we offer a range of quality pre-owned options from Jeep, Ram, Dodge, Chrysler, and more that provide all the essentials for student drivers. Here’s what we recommend looking for.
What Makes a Good Student Car?
A solid student vehicle should balance affordability, safety, and practicality. To begin, consider how much room your student will need. Are they hauling furniture to a new dorm, or do they simply need something to commute to and from campus? Our pre-owned inventory includes both compact sedans and spacious SUVs, so there’s a fit no matter your needs.
Look for features such as rearview cameras, blind spot monitoring, and smartphone compatibility—many used vehicles from Jeep, Dodge, and Chrysler include these even at modest price points. Finally, prioritize models with manageable upkeep and strong safety ratings, such as the Jeep Grand Cherokee, which earned a 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick
Budget Properly
To avoid overspending, we recommend following the 20/4/10 rule: aim for a 20 percent down payment, choose a financing term no longer than four years, and keep total monthly vehicle expenses (loan, insurance, fuel, and other costs) under 10 percent of your student’s take-home pay. This method helps families and student buyers maintain financial flexibility.
Smart Used Car Picks for Students
Here are a few pre-owned options we recommend that fit student needs:
- Dodge Dart – A compact sedan that’s easy to park, affordable to insure, and offers good fuel efficiency.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee – Rugged yet refined, this midsize SUV combines strong safety scores with space for gear and passengers.
- Ram 1500 – Ideal for students who need cargo capacity or plan to work jobs that require hauling.
Start the School Year with Confidence at A. M. Maus and Son
At A. M. Maus and Son, we’re committed to helping students and their families find the right vehicle for every stage of life. Visit us today to browse our dependable pre-owned selection and get expert guidance on your next back-to-school ride.