Hello Mabs
I’m buying my first car and feel completely overwhelmed by all the options. Everyone keeps giving me advice, but I don’t know what really matters — budget, mileage, brand, or resale value. Where should I start so I don’t make a costly mistake?
Mabs Answers:
Congratulations, buying your first car is worth celebrating and one of the best feelings that stays with you for a long time. It is a big deal, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. Start with what you can comfortably afford every month, including insurance, fuel and maintenance – don’t just focus on the instalment. From there, think about how you’ll actually use the car: city driving, long trips, kids, or work. Reliability and running costs matter more than brand names or flashy extras. In South Africa, a good service history and resale value are important too. Take your time, test drive a few options, and trust your instincts. If it feels stressful from day one, it’s probably not the right car for you.
