Are you in the market for a new car? Exciting times. But before you drive off into the sunset in your shiny new set of wheels, there’s one crucial step you can’t afford to skip: the test drive. This is your chance to see if the car truly fits your needs and lifestyle. According to a 2019 report, 17% of car buyers didn’t take a test drive before purchasing their vehicle. Some of them ended up buying a car that didn’t meet their expectations. Don’t make the same mistake. You see, test drive is the best way to ensure that you’re making the right decision and investing in a car that you will love to drive for years to come. Not sure how to make the most of your test drive? Find out how experts choose their best cars during their test drive sessions.
Do Your Homework Beforehand
Before you even set foot in a dealership, do your homework. Research different car models that interest you and make a list of features that are non-negotiable for you. Consider your daily commute, lifestyle needs, and budget constraints when narrowing down your options. You want to subscribe and watch reviews from the Gold Pony and Driven Car Reviews With Tom Voelk on YouTube to see how experts think about your dream car.
This way, you’ll get an idea of each car’s performance, reliability, and overall satisfaction among owners. This information will give you a solid foundation to work from during the test drive.
Check Comfort and Ergonomics
When test driving a car, one crucial aspect to pay attention to is its comfort and ergonomics. Adjust the seats, steering wheel, and mirrors to see if you can easily find your optimal driving position. Make sure there’s enough headroom and legroom for you and your potential passengers. Test out the visibility from all angles – can you see clearly without any obstructions? Sit in each seat to ensure everyone will be comfortable during long rides. Pay attention to how easy it is to access controls like the infotainment system, climate settings, and other features while driving. Are they within reach without straining or taking your eyes off the road for too long?
Drive It on Various Types of Roads and Terrains
When test-driving a car, it’s also important to experience how it handles different types of roads and terrains. Start by cruising on smooth highways to gauge its performance at higher speeds. Feel the acceleration, braking, and overall stability. Next, head onto some bumpy or uneven roads to see how the suspension copes with rough surfaces. Pay attention to any rattling noises or vibrations that may indicate issues with the vehicle’s shock absorbers or alignment. If you’re considering an off-road capable vehicle like an SUV or truck, try taking it off the beaten path onto gravel or dirt trails. See how it tackles inclines, descents, and obstacles to assess its off-road prowess.
Listen for Unusual Sounds
When test-driving a car, you shouldn’t skip to listen for the sounds it makes. Check if there are any unusual noises that could indicate potential issues with the vehicle. Keep your ears open for squeaks, rattles, clunks, or any other abnormal sounds during acceleration, braking, and turning. If you hear anything out of the ordinary, make sure to address it with the seller or dealer before making a purchase decision. Some common sources of strange noises include worn-out suspension components, brake issues, exhaust leaks, or engine problems.
See How the Tech Features Work for You
Modern cars often come with technology and connectivity features that are often promoted as their pros. But don’t fall for their marketing gimmicks. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the infotainment system, navigation options, connectivity capabilities, and any other technological aspects that come with the vehicle. Evaluate how well the tech features align with your preferences and lifestyle.
Do they enhance your driving experience or feel like unnecessary distractions? Consider whether they will make your daily commute easier or more enjoyable. A test drive doesn’t always mean seeing how the car looks or feels, but it’s all about understanding how it performs in different situations. Take your time during the test drive to really get a feel for the car and make sure it meets all of your needs and expectations.
