Buying a car is an exciting endeavor that can bring many rewards. Whether you’re purchasing a new or used vehicle, you’ll get the chance to choose a sleek new ride that’s just your style. As a major purchase for a product you’ll probably use for years to come, a car purchase is also a big responsibility. Before going to the dealership, you should conduct substantial research to determine what you want and the details you’re interested in. Test driving a car is a very important part of your purchase. Your test drive will give you an opportunity to note potential problems with the vehicle and make sure it’s the best choice for you. Yet, if you don’t know what to look for, you might learn little during the drive. These top tips for test driving a car will help you make the most of your experience and ensure you make the right choice.
Examine the Car Before Getting In
Although you may be eager to drive immediately, inspecting the vehicle thoroughly is important. Whether the car is new or used, it has been driven around the lot and handled by salespeople, detailers, mechanics, and other customers. Some cars even have defects from the factory. Take these steps to conduct a complete visual inspection.
- Walk around the vehicle to look for dings, scrapes, and scratches. Inspect the tires for balding or unusual wear if it’s a used vehicle.
- Open all of the doors and the trunk to ensure each one opens smoothly and closes firmly.
- Inspect the seats and floor for dirt and wear.
- Lift the floormats to see extensive carpet deterioration or rust on the floorboard.
- Learn where the jack and spare tire are located.
- Lift the hood and inspect the engine. Ask the salesperson to point out the window washer fluid, oil dipstick, and battery.
Let the Car Idle
Once you turn the key, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the car’s feel. Listen to the sound of the engine to ensure it runs without hesitation and there are no concerning noises like rattling, clicking, or whining. Check the dashboard to verify that the gauges work and that no warning lights are on. Once you’re comfortable, you can begin driving.
Choose the Route Yourself
Most dealerships will require you to take a salesperson along for the drive. If this is the case, explain that you’d like to choose the test drive route yourself to test multiple situations. When you choose where to go, make sure you choose an area with stop-and-go driving and a reasonable amount of traffic. During this part of the drive, pay attention to the brakes. Note if they feel spongy or the car fails to stop in the timeframe you expect. You’ll also want to take the car on the highway, where you can reach speeds of at least 55 mph. Note how easily the car accelerates to merge into traffic safely. Switch lanes and take multiple turns to determine how the steering responds. Try to emulate the types of driving you expect to use if you purchase the vehicle.
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Listen to Car as You Drive
While turning on the radio (or the salesperson does it for you) may be tempting, use your test drive to listen to the car. Turn off the radio and listen carefully through each part of your test drive. Seek out unusual sounds like squeaks, whines, or rattling. Take notice of any sounds that occur when you use the brakes.
Check Visibility
During your drive, note what you can and cannot see. Determine where the vehicle’s blind spots are and how much visibility the windshield offers. Check your mirrors and use them without the assistance of rearview or surround-view cameras. Make sure you feel comfortable with your visibility during all types of maneuvers.
Get Familiar with the Car’s Features
How the car looks and drives is important, but your comfort level inside the vehicle may be the biggest factor in how much you enjoy it. Consider how the seats feel. They should be supportive without feeling too firm and allow you to easily reach the pedals without feeling cramped or overly extended. Learn how to adjust the seats, make sure they move smoothly, and accommodate your needs.
Familiarize yourself with the technology inside the cabin. Check for your desired features, like Bluetooth, a backup camera, a navigation system, etc. Check the steering wheel, seating controls, heating, AC, and radio. Make sure you understand how to use each feature and that they’re easily accessible.
Don’t Rush Your Decision
When you’ve finished your test drive, the salesperson will be eager to begin paperwork on the final sale. You’re not obligated to complete the process immediately (or ever). Take a few moments to reflect on what you liked and didn’t like as you drove the vehicle. If you’re not entirely convinced it’s your dream car, take a day or more to evaluate your decision entirely.
Consider whether you’d like to test drive other vehicles and conduct a comparison. When a car doesn’t feel right during the test drive, it’s likely not the best choice. If you’re turned off by a specific feature, like the car’s handling, blind spots, or power on acceleration, you may be able to find a similar vehicle that will better suit your needs. Talk to the salesperson about your concerns, and consider other options before making a final decision.
A new car is a substantial investment that will impact your lifestyle. If you get a loan to pay off the vehicle, you’ll be required to carry additional insurance beyond the state’s minimum requirements. Before purchasing, it’s a good idea to contact your independent insurance agent to learn how your car choice will impact your premiums. To learn more about car insurance in Massachusetts, contact the experts at LoPriore Insurance today.
Top Frequently Asked Questions About Test Driving a Car
Can I test drive a car without the intention of buying it?
Yes, you can absolutely test drive a car without committing to a purchase. It’s a crucial step in the car-buying process to ensure the vehicle meets your needs and preferences.
What should I look for during a test drive?
Pay attention to factors like comfort, visibility, handling, and how the car responds to your driving style. Test the features, brakes, and acceleration, and listen for any unusual noises.
How long does a typical test drive last?
A typical test drive can last anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes, but it can be longer if you need more time to assess the vehicle thoroughly. Don’t rush the process; take your time to get a feel for the car.
Are there any specific questions to ask the seller during a test drive?
Yes, you can ask questions about the car’s maintenance history, accident history, warranty, and any concerns you may have. It’s also a good time to discuss pricing and financing options.
Do I need insurance for a test drive, or is the dealer’s coverage sufficient?
While many dealerships provide insurance coverage for test drives, it’s a good idea to check with them beforehand. You can also contact your insurance company to ensure you’re adequately covered during the test drive, just in case.
