Things to Consider When Buying a Family Vehicle in PA

Things to Consider When Vehicle Shopping for a Family of Six

When you have a larger family your vehicle options start to narrow down.  The needs of each family will be different depending on number of car seats, personal comfort, budget, and a number of other factors.  Here are some general things to consider though when you're looking for a vehicle for a family of 6.

Actual Family Seating Capacity -  Just because the vehicle says it seats 6 doesn't necessarily mean it will seat 6.   If you have one or more car seats to install, car seats take up more room and don't have a lot of give.  If you're trying to seat your teenage son between 2 car seats, it might not happen or at least might not be comfortable for more than a 15 or 20 minute drive.  This is why it is important to bring any child seats that you will need to have in your vehicle to see how they will actually fit.  Don't be afraid to take it for a test drive with the entire family, car seats and all.  How else will you know if everyone will be comfortable?  Some say they'll seat 7 but seat number 7 might be meant for a smaller person.  If you have a car full of football players, might not work.

     

Trunk/Storage Space -- You need to also consider storage space. Most vehicles have seats that can fold down, and this is great for fitting extra large items. But if all the seats in your vehicle will be occupied, focus on the trunk or rear cargo space that will be available.

     

Ease of Passengers Getting In and Out -- Mom, Dad, consider this. If you have several little ones, you're the one gonna be helping them get buckled in and getting out.  You don't want to have to contort yourself to get your 4 year old out of their booster seat in the back grow.  The good news is that vehicle companies are making things more and more convenient and accessible for families with seats the fold, lift, slide, and bucket seats with space between rows. 

Safety -- of course safety is a concern for any family vehicle, no matter the size but there are extra things to consider with a larger family.  If you have more than one child that requires a car seat, are there enough seats equipped with the latch system to accommodate?  Do all the rear doors have child safety locks?  Can you put a lock on the windows so little ones aren't throwing their shoes out the window?  (Go ahead ask me why I gave that example.)

Remember that having a larger family doesn't automatically mean mini-van. There's nothing wrong with a mini-van but there are SUVs out there that are family friendly as well.  .