Do You Need a Car for College?

Can you bring your car to college? Whether you have a job off campus or you enjoy the flexibility and freedom on the weekends around San Francisco, most college campuses are well equipped to handle student vehicles. While you know nothing is holding you back from bringing your vehicle, you may still be wondering, “do you need a car for college?” or “what is the best used car for a college student?” Read on with Victory Honda of San Bruno to learn how to prepare for how you can bring your car to college, and factors you should look for when searching for the best used car for college students. If you have any questions along the way, contact us!

Can You Bring a Car to College?

You can bring your car to college since most campuses offer parking permits and designated lots of students to park in, but is bringing your vehicle to school the right choice? As with most vehicles on the road around Oakland, you should consider the safety concerns and maintenance issues that come with bringing your vehicle somewhere. Here are some factors you should take into account when bringing your vehicle to college:

• Secure Your Car and Leave it Empty: Since a lot of vehicles are sitting in campus lots for long periods of time, they can become prone to vandalism and break-ins. Avoid tempting would-be thieves and try not to leave visible items in your vehicle, and consider a steering wheel lock for additional peace of mind.
• Take it for a Drive: Infrequent driving means it can develop flat spots in the tires or get a drained battery. Be sure to take it for a drive every once in a while.
• Check Your Car Regularly: Be sure to stay on top of your routine maintenance and monitor your vehicle for parking tickets and vandalism as they can lead to more costly repairs and fines that continue to build.
• Be Aware of Sticker Expiration Dates: Even if you’re not driving often, set a reminder for important dates for your vehicle inspection, registration, and parking permits.

Selecting the Best Used Car for a College Student

There’s no denying that trucks and SUVs give powerful performance on your Hayword adventures, they may not be the most efficient or nimble models when navigating cramped lots and busy streets. When searching for the best car for college, keep these tips in mind:

• Affordability: Consider future use when shopping for the right car. If you’re close to entering the workforce, a new vehicle is a worthwhile investment, but isn’t the most affordable option for college students. There are many used models with the capabilities you need, and Victory Honda of San Bruno even offers a selection of used vehicles under 10k as a more affordable option.
• Features & Optional Add-ons: From all-wheel drive to a range of connectivity options, make sure the model has all the features you need to give you confidence on the road.
• Insurance Costs: Check with your insurance provider if there are any additional incentives or discounts for college students.
• Gas Mileage: When you’re away at school, you don’t want most of your budget going into the gas tank. Search for fuel efficient models that can get you through the campus and work commute.
• Safety Ratings: Confidently take on the roads around town with a suite of driver-assist features or a model highly rated for safety by the automotive industry.

Find an Affordable Honda with Victory Honda of San Bruno!

Have you figured out if you need a car for college? Reach out to the team at Victory Honda of San Bruno to test drive our range of suitable new and used Honda models. When you’re ready to take on home, the knowledgeable team in our finance center are ready to answer all your car buying questions. To find an affordable model, be sure to take a look at used vehicle specials or College Grad programs.