So you’ve decided to splurge and spring for a gift to end all gifts. Now, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the vast selection of different ride-on toys available. There is a myriad of models, features, and price points to choose from. Good thing you found us!
To help you navigate, here are the most important things to consider when
making a purchase.
1. Know Your (child’s) Favorite Car
This one is easy if your kid already has a favorite car, be a Corvette or Hummer, or at least a favorite type of vehicle, say trucks or convertibles. It narrows down the selection considerably. No point buying something your little one’s not into in the first place. If you don’t know your child’s favorite car, you can find out easily by simply asking them.
One of the best times to do so is when the two of you are in a car together (or looking at car pictures/videos online), ask your kid to point out the models he or she really likes. Is it a muscle car made in the U.S.A.? Or a sleek European convertible? While you are at it, find out their favorite color as well. The good news is that whichever their preference, chances are there are ride-on cars that look just like it.
2. Your Child’s Age and Weight
Now that you know which model to look for, the next step is to make sure the units you are looking at are suitable for your child’s age and weight. Most ride-on cars will accommodate either 1 or 2 kids from 2 to 8 years old, with weight limits that range from 50 to 100 lbs.
Always check the product details to make sure your child is within the intended age group and weight limit. The last thing you want is setting up a new ride on, only to find out it’s too small for your little one.
One more point, it’s not recommended to buy a ride on car for kids under the age of two. As they are simply too young to drive a toy car. In this case, a push ride on car would be a much better choice.
3. Battery Size and Tire Material
Just like a real car, a ride-on toy’s performance is largely determined by its power unit and tire quality. Larger batteries lead to faster acceleration & longer playing time between charges. Most batteries on the market are either 6V, 12V, or 24V. The higher the voltage, the more power it can deliver.
For optimal performance & price, go with a 12V battery. 24V batteries give you the most capability but carry an additional cost, and 6V batteries are likely too small to be satisfactory in power and endurance.
And don’t forget about the tires, most of them are made of either plastic or EVA polymer. Because the latter offers rubber-like characteristics in terms of softness and durability, it is highly recommended that you look for models with EVA tires. This will greatly enhance the ride quality and longevity of the ride-on car.
4. Remote control
A remote for the toy ride-on car is a must-have feature, both for convenience and safety reasons. A multi-functional remote allows parents to fully operate the ride-on car while their child can simply sit back and enjoy the ride. This is perfect for young kids just starting to learn how to use the toy, or are feeling a little skittish and rather have mom or dad handle the driving for now. It also allows parental supervision and the ability to override if necessary.
Look for a remote that operates in the 2.4 GHz or higher for maximum range.
5. Quality & Service
When you are paying hundreds of dollars for a toy, it’s important to look for quality and good after-sale service. Check to make sure the company you are considering buying from offers a warranty on the two most essential components: the motor and the battery. If they don’t offer a warranty, then that’s a clear indication of subpar quality.
Keep in mind that just because the logo bears a luxury car brand, it does not necessarily vouch for high workmanship. Every ride-on car requires some assembly. It’s not very complicated, on par with typical Ikea furniture. Still, for the not-so-handy amongst us, it’s always good to have a customer service phone number where help is available if needed.
Always look for companies that offer easy and convenient customer service, and have good reviews from other buyers if available.