So you have decided to buy a new car, and have done your research on the internet, and found a few models that tick all the boxes. Before you make your final decision, be sure to take each car you’re considering for a test drive. Remember that there are certain things that you will only find out once you drive the car.
In order to save time, make an appointment for a test drive ahead of time. Car dealers have limited space available, and the specific model you are looking for might not be on the premises or might be parked in the showroom. Also, in order to prevent you from making rash decisions or being cornered by a persistent salesman, line up test drives one after another. This will also make comparisons between the different models easier, as everything will still be fresh in your mind.
Here are a few other things to remember when taking a car for a test drive.
The Parked-Car Tests
Here are a few things to check before you start the car:
- Is the front seat easy to access and does it give you adequate support? This might not be so important for short commutes, but during long trips, this could make all the difference.
- Are the back seats easily accessible, and do they provide ample leg and headroom?
- If it’s a requirement, will you be able to easily fit in a baby seat?
- Does the cargo area provide the space you need? Do seats fold or move easily?
- Can you comfortably reach all the controls?
How Does the Car Drive?
Here are a few things to focus on once you are on the road:
- How is the visibility? Can you see easily over the steering wheel, and how are those blind spots?
- How is the suspension? Do you feel the bumps and rough patches on the road, or is it a smooth ride?
- Does the car lock up or skid when you brake and is the steering responsive?
- Is the car powerful enough to suit your needs, and how is the acceleration?
- Test the safety features available in the car, such as hill start assist, or lane-keep assist.
Decide on Your Own Route
The salesperson might have a normal, easy route that he uses for test drives. Do not agree to this. Ensure that you do the test drive on the terrain and roads that you normally drive to see whether the car is suitable. Do you regularly drive long distances on the highway or often drive on dusty roads or rough terrain? Do you need to park your car in tight spaces, or do you regularly have to start it on an incline? Choose a route that will give you the info you need.
After you have taken the car for a test drive, refrain from buying on impulse. Sleep on it. The car will still be available tomorrow!
If you are thinking of taking a Ford for a test drive, drop by The Ford Store Morgan Hill. They might just have the car that is perfect for you.
Photo by DigitalRalph | Licensed under cc BY 2.0
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