Although turning the key and mashing the throttle might be your first inclination on a test drive, instead walk around the vehicle and inspect it thoroughly.Take your time, and thoroughly go over the car, taking notes and analyzing how the vehicle looks in the metal versus in photographs. If your dealer doesn’t have the powertrain you are looking for, wait, or find one that does. Because certain options and powertrains can greatly alter the feel of a vehicle, it’s important to drive the particular model and trim level you intend to purchase.Doing this should allow you to better focus on your prospective ride while communicating to the dealer that you’re prepared to take your business elsewhere if an attractive offer can’t be made. Once you’re at the dealership, let the salesperson know you want to drive the vehicle(s) you have in mind and then you’ll be comparing models and prices at other showrooms. Although you should press to take the vehicle home overnight-as many dealers now allow-to get comfortable with it and see if it fits in your garage, at least make an attempt to come back at night to observe how well the headlights perform and how well the interior is illuminated.Consider bringing a friend along to keep the salesperson occupied and point out things you might overlook.Drive your potential candidates back-to-back on the same day so you can make a proper comparison.Do your research ahead of time-our online buyer’s guide is a handy tool-and make the initial trip solely for the purpose of getting behind the wheel. By the time you show up at a dealership, you should already know what model(s) you want and what options you are interested in.
HOW MANY DRIVING TEST ROUTES ARE THERE HOW TO
Read on for how to prepare yourself for this all-important experience and what to keep track of when taking a new car out for the first time.ĭon’t wander onto the lot to see what cars are available. Making the most of it is a simple matter of common sense, careful observation, and knowing what to look for. But how can you be sure that hunk of metal, plastic, and rubber you’re eyeing is right for you? How can you best acquaint yourself with what will be not only one of your largest investments but also a trusted, long-term companion in your everyday life? A test drive, of course. You can’t put it off any longer-a trip to the car dealership is in your near future.