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Uncovering The Test Drive
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| Your Comfort Level |
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| Updated |
Jun 10, 2004 21:20:02 |
| Rating |
 71 ( -6 -8.45% ) | | Author | Tara Baukus Mello |
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Description:
Although the Internet offers many advantages to buying a car, there is one thing you can't do online -- go for a test drive. The test drive can greatly influence your decision-making process; regardless of whether you test drive before, during or after you've done your research. Autobytel.com takes the mystery out of the test drive experience, letting you know just what to expect and how to make sure your choice will meet your current --and future- automobile needs.
If you are lucky enough to have a friend or co-worker who owns the vehicle you are considering - see if you can borrow hers for a spin or two. You'll be more relaxed and feel less under pressure from a salesperson anxious to sell it to you. Whether you test drive a friend's car or visit your local dealer, use the tips provided here and print out our Test Drive Checklist to make sure you don't forget anything.
Your Comfort Level
The Driving Experience
Security
Interior and Cargo Space
What To Expect
Making sure that you are physically comfortable driving the car is key to ensuring you're happy with your car as it serves you over the long haul. Comfort level can be hard to assess in the short time span of a test drive, so pay careful attention to any discomfort in your back, arms or legs- and use the steering wheel and seat adjustments to eliminate it. Some steering wheels both tilt (move up and down) and telescope (move in and out), while seat controls range from four-way manual to 16-way electric settings. Memory seat settings are useful too, particularly if two people will be driving the car regularly.
Next look at the instrument panel, dashboard and center console. Make sure you can see the gauges clearly with your ideal position of the steering wheel. Open storage compartments and other convenience items such as cupholders. Make sure that these do not interfere with the operation of important systems, such as the shifter or the climate control.
Then, take a look at dashboard and its controls including the stereo system and climate settings. Check the size and distance between the knobs. While you are driving, notice if you can reach key functions without stretching and can determine at a glance, which controls operate which functions. Your driving experience will not be a pleasurable, nor will it be as safe, if you are constantly fumbling with the controls.
Driving the test drive, be sure to assess your visibility in typical driving situations. Once your mirrors are properly adjusted, note if you can see clearly out the back window and sides of the car. Pull into and back out of a parking space to note if you can see clearly around the seats and headrests when in reverse.
The Driving Experience
Even if performance is not a high priority on your list, it is vital to make sure that the vehicle meets your expectations when you are driving. The test drive can be a bit intimidating, particularly if the salesperson is along for the ride. It's important, however, to drive the way you normally drive. In a safe environment, you should also accelerate a bit more rapidly. Test the braking power and the steering responsiveness as well. This will give you an idea of how the car performs when during those inevitable emergency driving maneuvers. While it's important to get an idea of the capabilities of the vehicle, remember to be safe and legal in any driving maneuvers you choose to perform.
Security
Since women driving alone are at a greater risk for certain crimes, look for any special safety features of the vehicle. First, note the operation of the remote control, if there is one. A remote that unlocks only the driver's door, has a panic alarm or turns on exterior courtesy lights can be especially useful. Some vehicles automatically lock the doors when the transmission is put in drive. Another important feature is doors that automatically unlock when an occupant pulls on the interior handle. This is important if you need to exit the vehicle quickly.
Interior and Cargo Space
Once you've determined you are comfortable with the car, think about what you will be using it for. If you will be carrying passengers or cargo, decide if the vehicle meets those needs. If you are carrying passengers, start by sitting in all the seats. Pay attention to the amount of head and leg room, especially if you'll be frequently traveling with a tall person. If you are traveling with children, find out if the manufacturer offers an integrated child safety or booster seat.
Next, think about what type of cargo you'll be carrying. Make sure that the cargo area has adequate space for you're the largest amount of cargo you might carry, such as the luggage during your family vacation. If the rear seat folds or moves to offer more storage and you will need to use it frequently, check that you can physically manipulate the configuration on your own. Many manufacturers also have cargo nets and other handy storage tools to protect your possessions from damage.
What To Expect
Because of vehicle theft and simple joyriding, many dealerships require the salesperson to go along during the test drive. Often dealerships will also ask to see your license and may make a copy of it before you leave the lot. If the salesperson goes with you, expect him (only 7.4 percent of auto salesperson are women) to direct you on a predetermined route. This route will usually involve a variety of driving situations to allow you to get a feel for the vehicle in different circumstances. Often he drives first, demonstrating the vehicle's different characteristics and talking about its features. It's not uncommon for a test drive to last between 15 and 30 minutes, counting the salesman's time behind the wheel. Because it can be hard to assess a vehicle in that time frame, don't be afraid to ask for a longer-or a second-test drive. Buying a new car is a big investment and you want to make sure you are confident about your choice. |
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