How to Make the Most Of Your Test Drive
A test drive can be the deciding factor when it comes to choosing your next car. It is definitely one of the most thrilling aspects of car shopping. Testing the vehicle is where you can get a proper feel of your next potential car. It allows you to assess the general handling of the vehicle, your level of comfort in the driver’s seat, and all the features that the vehicle offers. However, before you go on your test drive, there are a few suggestions you may take along with you to make the most of your experience.
Create a list of your priorities.
Each person’s requirements while purchasing an automobile are unique. While some people prioritize comfort and safety above all else, others place higher importance on speed, performance, and handling. Whatever your needs are, make a note of them and keep them in mind when on your test drive.
Drive in a familiar place
You need to know that the vehicle is going to work for you. Taking the car for a test drive in a familiar area allows you to assess how the car drives on roads and routes that you often take. You want to make sure that the car drives smoothly and safely within these locations and that you feel comfortably in control of the vehicle while driving.
Examine the car inside and out.
Whether you are test-driving a new or used vehicle, it is crucial to look at every exterior and interior feature, including the overall size, seats, mirrors, windows, buttons, and display screens.
Test the brakes
Testing the brakes of the car is one of the most important parts of to test. A good braking system will respond with a sharp response when you press the brakes. If they feel spongy when pressed, there is most likely a problem with the brakes that have to be checked by a mechanic. When driving, it’s also vital to consider braking distances, you can test the brakes on a long straight road with no traffic and listen for any scraping or squeaking. You may also feel the pedal for any vibrations. If you hear or feel something unusual, it could be a sign that your brakes are damaged and need to be replaced.
Test the steering
Testing the car’s steering is also necessary to assess when on a test drive. You can try quickly steering the car from left to right when the car is parked. Any unusual sounds you hear while doing this could mean your car’s front end or the steering wheel is damaged. It could also be a sign of damage if the steering feels heavy or unresponsive.
Check the engine bay
If your test driving a used vehicle, you should check under the car’s engine bay to examine any leaks or signs of damage. Fluid checks are an important part of this, all accessible fluids including engine oil and transmission fluid should be checked. You can request that the seller starts the engine while the hood is open. While the engine is running, listen out for strong rhythmic sounds such as banging, clanking, or ticking.
Check out the In-Car Features
Test the button or screen accessibility while you’re driving, they should be easily accessible when driving. If you feel that a car’s entertainment system to be vital, check the radio and the sound quality. You can also check how efficiently the heater and air conditioner operate.
Try parking
Find a space where you can park the vehicle. This will help you understand the size of the car and how it parks. Additionally, it will allow you to observe any blind spots in your car from various perspectives.
Don’t overlook comfort
Purchasing a vehicle is a significant investment that should not be taken lightly. So, while it may be tempting to focus on only the most important features, such as the vehicle’s size and price, don’t overlook comfort, get a good feel of the vehicle:
Does the seating position adjust easily and is it adjustable for you?
Do you feel that you have enough room?
Do you like the placement of the controls?
Can the steering wheel be adjusted to suit your best driving position?
Have you got good visibility out of the back windows when reversing?
Can you see yourself driving this vehicle daily?
These are some questions that will help you ensure that the vehicle is for you. First impressions make a huge impact. So determining how you feel by being in the car can be extremely useful in making a decision.
Feel free to ask questions!
You may believe that it’s difficult to find the perfect car, but fortunately, at Leyshon Flint & Sons we are always here to help and are happy to answer any questions you may have. As much as you want to find the ideal car for yourself, also so do we!
Assure that you use these points when taking your potential next car on a test drive to help guarantee satisfaction with your choice of vehicle. Test driving should be an exciting experience, and we’re here to assist you along the way! Book a FREE test drive appointment today here at Leyshon Flint & Sons.