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Before Test Drive

| Before the Test Drive| | During the Test Drive | | After the Test Drive |

 

TEST DRIVING
Although internet has changed the traditional way of buying and selling cars the one important factor that cannot be substituted by internet is 'Test Driving'.To Remember everything you want to look for during the test drive can be a challenge especially, if you are really excited about getting a new car. Print out this checklist to make sure you don't forget anything.

Comforts

The most important point to check is whether you are physically comfortable with the car; after all you are spending a fortune to by one.

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.

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.
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.

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.

  Driving Experience & Expectations  

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 nerve-racking, 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    
Check for special features on the remote
Since women driving alone are at a greater risk for certain crimes, look for any special safety features of the vehicle, such as unlocking the driver's door only, a panic alarm or exterior courtesy lights.
Check if the doors lock when the transmission is first engaged.
Notice if the doors will automatically unlock when an occupant pulls on the interior door handle.

  Interior and Cargo Space  

Once you've determined you are comfortable with the car,it meets your expectation levels; 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 any child safety features.
If you will be carrying cargo 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.Is there adequate storage space for your largest suitcases or your weekly shopping?
Can you reconfigure or manipulate the rear seating on your own to provide additional storage space?
Many manufacturers also have cargo nets and other handy storage tools to protect your possessions from damage.

  Time Stipulation for the drive 

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  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.It can be hard to assess a vehicle in a limited 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 and do not repent it later just because you did not get ample time to test drive.

After you go through all the above stated checklist for a test drive , you can be confident that you will be making the right car move !

Click here to for a Checklist before you take a test drive

 

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