When it comes time to buy a new car, many people feel overwhelmed. How can you know for sure that you’ve made the best decision? There’s no surefire answer, but taking a test drive is always good. Here are 7 tips to provide the best plan for your next test drive.
Step 1: Do Your Homework
Test driving is only half the fun – the other half is researching which car is right for you. Before you even pop into a dealership, you should have a good idea of what kind of car you want. Read reviews, compare prices, and narrow your choices to a few models that fit your budget and needs.
Step 2: Make a List
Not everything comes to mind when you’re already in driving mode. Make sure you brainstorm a list of things to test before you hit the road. This can include features (like heated seats or a sunroof), tech gadgets (like Bluetooth connectivity or lane departure warnings), and even simple things like backseat space for your car seat or legs.
Step 3: What’s the Fuel?
This step is critical for anyone who’s not just looking for a fast car but a practical one too. Make sure you understand what kind of fuel your prospective ride takes so you can factor fuel costs into your budget.
Pinpoint where the nearest charging stations are to avoid getting stranded if you’re looking at electric cars. Moreover, you’ll want to watch the fuel economy ratings when you’re test driving different cars. The last thing anyone needs is to end up with a gas guzzler!
Step 4: Start Sleuthing
Before you strap in for a ride, take your time to sleuth around the exterior and interior of the car. Make sure you check for any dents, scratches, or other damages. Once you’re satisfied with the car’s condition, hop in and get comfortable.
Step 5: Keep Your License
Most dealerships will photocopy your license before you test any wheels. We advise you to bring your copy and get it back and destroy it. Identity theft is no joking matter, and while not every dealership is suspicious, it’s best to be cautious.
Step 6: Make It a Few Dates
You heard that right! We don’t recommend just scheduling one drive for one car. Instead, book several appointments so that you can test out a few different models. This is the only way you’ll be able to find what suits your needs truly.
Step 7: Put It to the Test
The test driving process is key to deciding whether or not a car is a right fit for you. Once you have your list of cars, it’s time to start putting them through their paces. Choose areas you regularly pass through, like highways or areas with stop-and-go traffic or bumpy roads, to understand how the car will handle different conditions.
Conclusion
If you find these tips helpful and would like to put them into practice, reach out to us at Feldman Chevrolet of Lansing, serving Marshall, MI. We serve the area with an impressive selection and would be happy to guide you through the process and find you the car of your dreams.
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