How to Take Test Drive of a Car

Buying a new car is an important decision for many people. Especially, buying the first car brings thrill and excitement. New car purchase involves many processes including visiting show rooms, short list vehicles, test driving and price negotiation.

Test drive is an important process before purchasing any vehicle. Test drive helps in understanding the pros and cons of the vehicle. It also helps in making sure the vehicle chosen meets your needs and purposes. The following tips make the test drive more purposeful.

Before going for a test drive, prepare a checklist listing all the testing criteria such as engine power, noise, vibrations, braking, steering, air-conditions, sitting, leg space, maneuverability, gear changing, etc.

Ask the same model that you are intending to buy for a test drive. Many dealers use a fully loaded higher end variant for test drive even when the customer intends to buy lower end model.

Fix the date and time in advance so that your testing slot does not mix with others. This will not only save your time, but also help in test driving the right model rather than a generic version.

During a test drive keep the following points in mind:

• Walk around the car and observe its looks, styling and overall appeal.

• Observe windscreens, lights, bumpers, body color, height, width, body quality, door handles, boot space and panel gapes etc.

• Open the door and try getting in and out to make sure it is comfortable. This is very important for tall and bulky people.

• Take the driver seat and check if it is comfortable for long driving. Check the seat has facilities to adjust height, back and front.

• Before starting the car have a glance on component, a/c controls, panels, push buttons, switches, other driving accessories and make sure that all are located in convenient places.

• Check the gadgets, USB drive, horn, side indicators, brake lights and wipers.

• Take the car to the route suggested by the accompanying sales person until you get acquainted with the car. Make sure that your test drive covers city roads, highway and observe the car response. If you feel the driving distance is insufficient, ask the person for a longer route.

• While test driving always concentrate on driving and observe its noises and response. Never pay attention and get carried away by smart talks of the clever sales person accompanying you.

• Never discuss commercials on a test drive.