Grieco Automotive Group offers first-time car buyer tips for graduation season

Grieco Automotive Group is advising first-time buyers to look beyond monthly payments as graduation season drives new car purchases. The Rhode Island dealer group says planning for total ownership costs, financing, insurance and future needs can help young drivers avoid costly mistakes. Why it matters: - Graduation season is a common time for first car purchases. - A first vehicle is often one of the first major financial decisions for new graduates. - Better preparation can help buyers reduce surprises after the sale. What happened: - Grieco Automotive Group released guidance for first-time car buyers during graduation season. - The advice is aimed at young adults heading to college, entering the workforce or relocating for a new job. - Robert Grieco, Corporate Pre-Owned Director for Grieco Automotive Group, said the company has spent 50 years helping generations of customers buy their first vehicles. - Robert Grieco said informed buyers tend to feel more confident during the shopping process. The details: - Grieco Automotive Group said buyers should budget for more than the monthly payment. - Insurance, registration fees, fuel, maintenance and repairs can all affect affordability. - The company urged buyers to understand the differences among new, certified pre-owned and used vehicles. - New vehicles typically come with the latest technology and manufacturer warranties. - Certified pre-owned vehicles are manufacturer-inspected and often include warranty coverage. - Used vehicles can cost less but may require more research and inspection. - The dealer group said buyers should match the vehicle to daily driving habits, including commute length, driving conditions, passenger needs, cargo space and parking. - Grieco Automotive Group said electric vehicles may make sense for drivers with predictable routines and charging access. - EV ownership can offer long-term savings through lower fuel and maintenance costs. - Federal, state and local incentives may also improve EV affordability. - Buyers should test-drive multiple vehicles and assess visibility, braking, comfort, technology features, cargo capacity and overall driving experience. - The company said buyers should think beyond today and consider future changes such as career opportunities, relocation, graduate school or family plans. - Automotive professionals also recommend comparing financing options, getting insurance quotes before buying and checking safety and reliability ratings. - More information is available at the company’s announcement . Between the lines: - The guidance reflects a broader shift in how first-time buyers are expected to shop: total cost, flexibility and long-term fit matter as much as sticker price. - The EV advice signals that electric ownership is moving from a niche choice to a practical option for some entry-level buyers. - The focus on financing and insurance suggests the biggest mistakes often happen before a buyer signs paperwork. What’s next: - Grieco Automotive Group is positioning its advice for the summer buying period that follows graduation season. - First-time buyers who use the checklist can compare vehicles and financing options before making a purchase. - Buyers can find additional details at the company’s announcement . The bottom line: - The best first car is not just the one with the lowest payment. It is the one that fits a buyer’s budget, driving needs and next few years.