Taking Your Test Drive

It's time to go to the dealership for your hands-on evaluation of the cars on your list.  Why is it important to put hands on?  This is where you decide whether the car fits your physique and is comfortable for you.  You experience for yourself how different makes and models handle and perform.  Test drives let you feel the difference between similar products sharing attractive styling and persuasive ad campaigns.  

How to Do a Test Drive Without Buying a Car the Same Day - When you go into the showroom, politely say that you're interested in test-driving a car you're considering buying.   An experienced salesperson should recognize that you aren't buying today and won't pressure or pester you.  If they do, remember their job is to make a sale, so don't fault them for persistence.  Assure them that you're seriously considering their vehicle for purchase, and if you choose it, they'll be the first to know.  But don't let yourself get roped into a purchase during the beginning of your search.  Politely make it clear that you are there for a test-drive.  

Some dealers insist that a customer contact sheet be filled out prior to a test-drive.  Allow them to fill it out, but don't sign it or furnish any credit information, as lots of credit checks on your credit history make you look bad.  The only document the dealer legally requires before a road test is your driver's license, and sometimes proof of insurance.

Don't discuss financing or let the salesperson know whether you're trading in a car.  With both, say you haven't decided yet; keep your options open.  Remember, the test drive comes WAY before any negotiations on price (Dealer Negotiations).  If, after the test drive, you feel ready to wheel and deal, don't.  You won't know what you've missed unless you test- drive some more cars.  

Let the Salespeople Do Their Shtick - Talking with your salesperson, you'll get a feeling for the dealership's personality and will quickly find out if you need to go elsewhere.  Your peace of mind is a crucial element in the car buying process.  Are these people helping you to make a smart car selection?  Remember you can always leave and go to another dealer if you feel uncomfortable, or feel you're being mistreated.  Be sure you get a thorough demonstration of each car you are considering.  The salesperson should explain how to adjust the side mirrors and how to operate the climate control and stereo.  On a new car they should make it clear which features are optional and which are standard.  Demand a complete description of  the vehicle's safety features.  If they talk too fast, ask them to slow down and repeat what they said.

Meanwhile, You Do Yours.  Set aside plenty of time (at least 2 hours with plenty of daylight) to test drive each car under consideration.  Always take a friend with you when test driving; those extra eyes, ears, and hands will come in handy.  But don't bring animals, small children, or uninterested companions.  Some of the problems we mention will only apply to used cars.  

For Used Cars: conduct a visual inspection first.  Always look at vehicles during the daytime, as darkness may hide all kinds of problems.  If it's a rainy or snowy day, stay home.  The rain masks previous paint work, nicks, and scratches, and makes thin, worn paint look slick and shiny. 

Be sure to check the condition of all 4 tires before you get in and start the engine.  The only thing besides gravity that keeps a vehicle on the road are the tires.  Visually inspect each tire for proper inflation, cracks, exposed belts, and bald spots.  Chances are good that a car with bald tires has not been well cared for; cross this particular specimen off your list right now.  

When you get in the car, do you detect any foul odors?  Does the vehicle smell like cigarettes, cigars, pets (urine), or the dreaded baby diaper?   I've been in the car business for 35 years and have yet to find a product that masks any of these smells permanently.  If these smells bother you now, they aren't going to go away.  Pass up this car and go on to the next one, especially if you have allergies. 

Comfort, Visibility, Tests With the Engine On, & the Road Test are on the next page >

© 2009 SafeCarGuide.com, Inc.|Staff |Disclaimer|Privacy| an coachbuilt.com affiliate