Choosing a family car is not something that most parents take lightly. Parents often agonize over whether or not they are making the right decision when purchasing a new family car. All parents want their children to be safe, which is why the car buying process can often cause headaches. The good news is that it doesn't have to cause headaches or stress. There are many ways to help narrow down your choices to help you make the right decision for your family when it comes to buying a new car.

Go to the car dealership with cars in mind. It's fine to go to the lot to see what's out there, but it's a good idea to have a short list of the cars you're really interested in ready. What you're able to look at and test drive will also depend on your budget, so be realistic about what you think you'll be able to afford.

Space is a key feature for families. When you have a family, you'll need ample room for people and things in the car. As much as you might want to leave the kids at home when looking for a car, it's actually a good idea to bring them along. Have them sit in the back seat, and make sure that there is plenty of elbow/leg room for them to ride comfortably. Consider their stage in life, and how much bigger/taller they will still grow over the years.

Storage space is a must for families. If you have young children, you'll want to make sure that there is plenty of room for gear, such as strollers and car seats. Take your stroller with you, and see if it'll fit easily in the trunk of the car. Transfer the car seats to the back seat of the car you're looking at, so you'll have an accurate view of what the seats are like in the back. Make sure that the seats fit well, and that both front seat passengers have room to sit comfortably with the car seats installed in the back. Car seats (especially infant and toddler seats) can take up a lot of room.

Check the safety ratings and features. Your family's safety is of utmost importance, so check the safety ratings. It's okay to comparison shop, and do your research before hitting the lot. A good source for safety ratings is Consumer Reports. Ask what types of features the car has that will allow you to be even safer in the vehicle. Does it have a backup camera? Is there an in-car calling feature, which allows you to be hands-free at all times? Is there a brake assist feature? If you're looking at a hatchback, is there a cargo barrier in place to keep items in the back from flying forward?

It's hard to say when the best time to car shop is. Dealerships tend to be busy on the weekends, so for faster service, you may want to take a day during the week, and visit your local dealership. This is probably the best time to look on the lot, and test drive the cars you're interested in. Keep an open mind while looking, and be ready to ask questions. Don't be discourage if you don't drive home with a new car the same day you start looking. Allow yourself some time to really look, and make the best decision for your family.

Purchasing a new car for the family might seem daunting, but keep in mind that your thoroughness is well worth it. After all, your kids just might learn to drive in the next car you purchase. 

Brought to you by Kindle Auto Plaza.