Ask any new driver what kind of car they want, and they’re unlikely to say a safe one.

But that consideration should rank at the top of the list when looking for a secondhand car for a P-Plater.

Here are some tips to help you find the perfect P-Plate friendly car.

Aim for five stars

While an old clunker may be well within a new driver’s price range, and have a certain "cool" factor, it’s unlikely to stand up if involved in a serious road crash.

With five-star safety ratings for cars introduced around 15 years ago, you can still find great used cars with the full five-star rating, and you can check the as-new safety ratings of various makes and models online at www.ancap.com.au

Don’t be seduced by shine

Regardless of the car’s age or the previous owner’s assurances, make sure that any used car you are keen on purchasing undergoes a full and complete safety check for both mechanical defects and repairs.

A car that might look OK and run well may have been involved in a serious crash and been patched up, or had a shiny new paintjob to ready it for sale. A full check will see if its safety rating has been compromised.

Book an appointment with your mechanic today. 

Go for added safety features

Try and find a make with two airbags – both driver and passenger, anti-lock brakes and stability control.

If you don’t have a massive budget, some early 2000’s European cars such as Renault and Citroen meet these requirements as those makers jumped on the safety bandwagon much earlier than some other counterparts.

Do your research

With some new cars selling for less than $13,000, the good news for used car buyers is that there are some really decent, well-priced used models around.

Cars that rate well in expert commentaries on used cars for new drivers are the Subaru Forester, the Hyundai i20, Toyota Corolla and Yaris, Ford Falcon G6 and the Honda Jazz.

These makes and models are offered only as a guide of what is available; make sure you do your research to ensure the car you buy meets your requirements, safety and otherwise.

Look within your budget

The best place to start is to only look at cars that suit your budget, needs and style, and those with a four or five star safety rating.

That way, you won’t be seduced by a cool stereo or paint job and end up buying an unsafe vehicle.

Remember, the newest driver in the family should be driving the safest car, particularly in situations that are challenging for P-Platers such as during inclement weather and at night.

It’s also worth noting that the P-Plater’s first car is also likely to be one they will have for many years, so the initial cost will be spread over that time.

Find a second-hand car that ticks all the boxes at a used car market. Find one near you, here.