Communicate Your Wants and Needs With a Salesperson

Buying a certified pre-owned or other used vehicle is an outstanding option for many people, especially when it comes to saving money. But, the last thing you want to do is make the conscious effort to spend less only to end up spending more for something that could have been avoided.

The best way to avoid extra costs on things like repairs or extras down the road is to exercise due diligence before hitting the road. A test drive is a great way to not only get a feel for the vehicle you think you want but so is talking to a salesperson upfront.

Salesmen or saleswomen can take your wishes, answer questions and then isolate the perfect vehicle or trim based on that conversation. So, go in knowing what it is you’re after so you can zero in on the type of vehicle you’d like to consider buying.

Finally, don’t forget your driver’s license. For more tips on how to make the most of your next test drive, please continue reading.

Take a Walk Before You Drive

So, you’ve found a vehicle you like and upon first glance, it looks to be perfect. Perhaps, but that may not always be the case. Before taking the car for a test drive, it is recommended that you circle it with a good eye, looking for dents or other concerns that may not have been previously noted.

If you aren’t the most experienced when it comes to what’s under the hood or vehicle, another good idea is to bring someone with you who is. It never hurts to check things out before you head out.

Check All Features

Every driver has a list of wants and needs with the vehicle they drive. Keep a list of features you would like before deciding on the vehicle to test drive.

Is it equipped with strong safety and driver-assist features? If so, make sure you test the features out during your test drive to ensure proper operation and that you are comfortable with how they all operate.

Other features to check out when taking a test drive are seating positions and space. Consider the passengers you may be transporting on a regular basis. Does the vehicle provide comfortable amounts of legroom?

If you have a toddler requiring a car seat, be sure to take it and make sure it can be safely strapped in.

Before you take that test drive, make sure you have checked all the boxes of questions you have with regard to interior operations (blinkers, windshield wipers, high beams, etc.), space, comfort, safety, and location of controls. Jotting down questions before visiting the car lot is a good way to keep yourself in check as you make sure the vehicle is in check.

Give the Vehicle a Good Test of Power During the Test Drive

When you’ve found the vehicle you want to test drive, chances are you’ve done your homework with regard to powertrain features. Be mindful of that when driving, but also go the distance with everything associated with power and performance.

Things to check out during a test drive include ease of steering. Is it right for your style of driving? If the vehicle operates with an automatic transmission, get a feel for how it upshifts and downshifts. If it’s a manual transmission, make sure you are comfortable with that operation.

When it comes to brakes, everyone is used to different response times and intensity. During your test drive, make sure you travel highways, city streets and neighborhoods to get a feel for brake reaction. As someone who will be driving it day in and day out, it’s important to make sure you are comfortable with how sensitive the brakes are under varying conditions.

Two additional things to be mindful of when taking a test drive is how well the car maneuvers in different situations. Is it easy getting into and out of parking spaces? Does it take sharp turns well? An obvious, but important, thing to consider is visibility. During your test drive, take note of all your surroundings to make sure your view from all areas around you are ones you feel confident with.

A test drive of a vehicle is an incredibly valuable way to determine if it’s right for you. Of course, much of what you need to check out is common sense, but when excitement runs high, it can be easy to overlook important things. Make a comprehensive list of all you wish to ask and look for. In so many ways, it will make your next test drive both fun and informative.

Visit A Drive217-Certified Location Today

For a better experience, schedule your next test drive at any of the Drive217-certified dealership locations below:

• Subaru of Champaign County
• Vermilion Chevrolet Buick GMC
• Worden-Martin Buick GMC
• Champaign Ford City
• Illini Nissan
• Carmart