How to have an effective test drive

So you’ve made the decision to look for your next car.  It’s a big step because you know that once you start driving new cars, you’re much more likely to buy that new car.  The salesmen know this too and that’s why they want to get you in the car!  But as you begin driving different cars, you need to be sure you’re doing all you can to evaluate each vehicle.  How do you do this?

Step 1 – Allow yourself plenty of time.  This is not something to be rushed and you’ll want to leave adequate time to drive each car.  I allow an hour for each car my clients will be driving.  That way we’re not rushed and can enjoy each car as much as the first one.

Step 2 – Ignore the pushy salesman.  It’s about you during the drive and you need to stay focused.  If they talk too much, ask them to be quiet.  It’s not rude because they are there to help and serve you.  Your mission during the drive is to learn all that you can about the vehicle.

Step 3 – Establish a routine.  As you begin driving cars, you need to have a routine set up so you can evaluate each car equally.  Either go over it in your head or write out a list of what to check out.  You’ll want to repeat this for each car you drive so you can truly compare apples to apples.

Step 4 – Drive the model you want to buy.  A different engine, transmission, seating, or features can drastically change how a car rides and feels.  Try to find one equipped in the manner you would buy so you get a true feel of how it will drive if you buy it. 

Step 5 – Get acquainted with the car.  When you get in the car to begin driving, be sure to set up all the mirrors (side and rearview), seat height, windshield wiper controls, light controls, etc. for the way you prefer them.  It’s much easier (and safer!) to do this before moving.  Also check for blind spots in your front and rear views.  Listen to the radio to see how it sounds.  After that, turn it off so you can listen for other noises that might be masked by your music.

Step 6 – Don’t be shy.  This drive is about you and how you feel in the car.  Be sure to test the car’s limits (within reason!) for all the functions you’ll be using.

·         Acceleration – evaluate the car’s ability to accelerate on an interstate on-ramp.  This is a great way to see if the power is enough to get you up to speed when merging.  Also check how easily it can accelerate when passing.  Does the transmission downshift quickly or does it hesitate?  Try it with the A/C on and off to see if that makes a difference.

·         Braking – see how quickly the car can stop and how it handles.  It’s best to perform this in a parking lot or vacant road so you don’t endanger other drivers.  See if it pulls to one side or if you have difficulty steering it while braking.

·         Turning – take the chance to pull it into a parking space between other cars to see how easily it is maneuvered.  Also check the turning radius in an open space of parking lot.  A tighter radius makes for easier parking in a tight parking lot!  Check the visibility through the side and rear windows when pulling in and backing up. 

Step 7 – Add variety.  Be sure you drive on different types of pavement and roads during your drive.  Most cars sound and feel great on new pavement, but you need to see how they handle on rough pavement, concrete, etc.  Also choose a route that has a few twists and turns on it so you can feel the handling characteristics.  Is the car responsive or does it sway from side to side? 

Step 8 – Take notes.  Once you’ve completed your drive, write down your impressions.  Include things you liked and didn’t like.  This will be helpful when you’re driving several cars.  They tend to blend together after awhile and you might forget something that could bug you later.  These notes will help you when making a decision.

Step 9 – Walk away.  Now is not the time to make the buying decision.  You have the new car smell still present and you’re drawn to it.  Rational thinking is in short supply at this time!  You need to go home and work through the numbers.  This is where your notes will be helpful and you can make a rational and wise decision on which car to buy.

I also recommend that you take someone with you.  I go along with my clients to explain the features and to act as a buffer between them and the salesman.  They can focus on the car and only the car during their drives. 

So now you’ve driven each car you’re considering and have the notes to review and make your educated and rational decision.  Spending time in the seat of each car is a very important part of the car buying process.  If you don’t like something during the first drive, you probably won’t like it after a few months or years.  It’s best to learn that before paying for it!  With this plan you can enjoy your test drives and get an accurate impression of the cars you’re considering.