Before the Test Drive
Do your research. To properly test drive a car, you’ll want to do your research ahead of time. Determine the amount you can comfortably spend and then select several vehicles that fit your price range and have the features you need. If you have difficulty deciding, reading some online reviews and seeing what others have to say may help. Pay attention to the specifications that matter to you, which may include vehicle size, specific technology features, and towing capacity. Once you have done this, narrow your list down to three or four affordable options.
Schedule multiple appointments. This will give you a great excuse to quickly move from one car dealership to another so you can think about your options before committing to a purchase. It will also show the dealership that you are a serious buyer rather than a browser, and you’ll likely have your car ready and waiting for you when you arrive.
To ensure that all the vehicles you are testing remain fresh in your mind, it’s a good idea to try to test drive all the vehicles you’re considering on the same day. This way, you’ll be able to make direct comparisons.
Test Drive Day
Bring a friend. It’s important to have a second opinion that isn’t trying to sell you anything. While they don’t necessarily have to sit in the driver’s seat, ask them to pay attention to how smooth the ride is from a passenger perspective. Is there a lot of noise? Is the acceleration jerky? These are all things you might miss if you’re solely focused on handling a new car.
Bring your usual accessories. Are you heading to the slopes every weekend, playing bass in a jazz band, or do you have a heavy car seat? Bring these items with you and make sure they fit in the car you are testing.
Behind the Wheel
Pay attention to getting in and out. Is it easy to sit in the driver’s seat and get out of it?
Pay attention to the driver’s seat. Are you comfortable behind the wheel? If you have a significantly taller or shorter partner, will they be comfortable behind the wheel? Can you easily reach the pedals? Is there enough support for your back, head, and neck? Can you see all the mirrors? Can you easily reach the climate and stereo control buttons? Are the cup holders positioned appropriately and deep enough to prevent spilling your morning coffee?
Test the technology. Does the rearview camera provide helpful visibility? Can you figure out the entertainment and navigation system? Can your cellphone connect via Bluetooth? Do you find the driving and audio control buttons easy to use and intuitive? Do the trunk and rear doors open easily?
Drive it realistically. If you frequently travel on the highway, make sure your test drive includes a stretch on the freeway. You need to see how the car handles situations you’ll encounter often, and not just in a parking lot. Pay attention to what you hear and feel: is there a lot of noise when you accelerate? Does the car accelerate and climb hills smoothly? Do the brakes work well? Is the steering smooth and responsive? Is there enough room for a passenger in all seats? Can you park it easily?
If you are buying a used or slightly used car:
Has the car been in any accidents? Has there been one owner? Does it handle well on sharp turns, like an entrance or exit ramp? Are there strange smells in the car? Do you smell exhaust fumes when idling? Can you bring someone who knows cars or a mechanic with you?
After
Driving Test
Take some time to think about it. Buying a new car is expensive, and it’s not a decision you should rush into. Thank the salesperson for their time and keep their business card, then move on to your next appointments. Take a night to review your notes and sleep on it before making your final decision. There’s nothing worse than allowing a little false excitement to push you into making a financial decision you’ll regret.
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