A test drive is one of the most important steps in the car-buying process. It’s your opportunity to get behind the wheel, experience how the car drives, and see if it truly meets your needs.
Making the most of your test drive can help you make a well-informed decision about your next vehicle.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of making the most of your test drive to ensure you drive away satisfied with your choice.
1. Preparation is Key
Before you even step into the car for a test drive, it’s crucial to be prepared. Here are a few steps to take to get the most out of your experience:
Research the Vehicle: Start by familiarizing yourself with the car’s specifications, features, and performance ratings. Look at reviews, customer feedback, and professional tests to understand what to expect. This will help you form questions to ask the salesperson and set realistic expectations for how the car should perform.
Know Your Needs: Consider your specific needs—whether it’s daily commuting, long road trips, or occasional hauling. Think about how you use your current car and how the new car needs to fit into your lifestyle. This will help you focus on the features that matter most during the test drive.
Choose a Suitable Route: Plan your test drive route in advance. Ideally, you want a mix of roads: highway, city streets, and residential areas. This allows you to experience the car’s performance in different conditions, such as acceleration, braking, steering response, and handling. If possible, test the car on the type of roads you typically drive on.
Bring a Friend or Family Member: Having a second opinion can be valuable. They can notice things you might miss and help you evaluate the comfort, visibility, and handling of the car. Their perspective can also be useful in ensuring that the vehicle meets the needs of everyone who will be using it regularly.
2. Ask the Right Questions
Before starting your test drive, talk to the salesperson and ask questions to clarify what you’re looking for and what the car can offer. Here are some essential questions to consider:
What are the key features of this model? Understanding the main features of the car can help you prioritize what to test during the drive.
What is the fuel efficiency like? If fuel economy is important to you, ask about the real-world mileage figures. Salespeople may offer estimates based on EPA ratings, but your actual driving experience can differ.
How does this car compare to other models in terms of reliability and performance? This question can give you insights into how the car stacks up against competitors in terms of handling, durability, and value.
What are the safety features? Ask about airbags, crash-test ratings, and any advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. Knowing these details will help you assess how well the car protects you and your passengers.
What is the warranty and maintenance plan? Understanding what’s covered under the warranty and what maintenance will cost can influence your decision, especially for new and certified pre-owned vehicles.
These questions not only help you gather information but also show the salesperson that you are serious and informed about your decision.
3. Test the Car’s Performance
Once you’re ready to hit the road, focus on the car’s performance across different scenarios:
Acceleration and Braking: Pay attention to how the car accelerates from a stop and how it brakes when you need to slow down. Does it feel responsive? Is there any hesitation or excessive delay in acceleration? Test the brakes by coming to a controlled stop on a flat surface and again on a slight incline. Make sure there’s no noise or unusual vibration when braking.
Steering and Handling: Notice how the car handles turns, curves, and corners. Does the steering feel responsive, or does it seem heavy and sluggish? Try to drive through some winding roads if possible to gauge the car’s handling and stability at higher speeds.
Visibility: Check visibility from the driver’s seat—how easily can you see out of the windshield and side mirrors? Test the car’s blind-spot monitoring system if it has one. This will help you understand how the vehicle handles visibility challenges, especially in city driving and on highways.
Ride Quality: Drive on different types of roads to assess ride quality. Does the car smooth out bumps, or does it feel harsh? Test how the car absorbs road imperfections, especially if you’re concerned about comfort on long trips.
Interior Features: Adjust the seats, mirrors, and steering wheel. Test features like heated seats, air conditioning, and the sound system. Check if the controls are easy to reach and use while driving. This will help you determine how practical and user-friendly the interior of the car is for daily use.
4. Check the Technology and Infotainment System
Modern cars come equipped with a variety of technology features, from touchscreens and navigation systems to smartphone integration and voice controls. Make sure to test these features thoroughly:
Screen Navigation: Test how responsive and intuitive the infotainment system is. Try entering an address into the GPS and see how quickly it calculates the route. Check if it allows for hands-free calling and text messaging through Bluetooth connectivity.
Smartphone Integration: Test Apple CarPlay or Android Auto if available. Make sure your phone connects easily and that the system responds quickly to your commands.
Voice Controls: Test the voice recognition feature by giving it commands such as “navigate to home” or “call mom.” Assess how accurate and useful the voice controls are.
Sound System Quality: Play a few songs from your phone to test the sound quality. Check if the car’s audio system has features like surround sound, equalizer adjustments, and different sound profiles.
5. Test the Car’s Practicality
Besides how the car feels to drive, think about how practical it will be for your daily routine:
Cargo Space: Open the trunk and check the cargo capacity. Imagine loading groceries, luggage, or sports gear. Will it fit comfortably? Does the back seat fold down for extra storage?
Passenger Comfort: Check how much legroom there is in the front and back seats. Sit in the backseat to get a feel for how much space there is and how comfortable it would be on longer trips.
Storage Compartments: Look for smaller storage areas—cup holders, glove compartments, center console, and door pockets. Are they conveniently placed? Do they offer enough space for your daily items?
6. Get a Feel for the Car’s Value
As you finish up your test drive, think about how the car fits into your budget and overall value:
Resale Value: Ask about the car’s expected resale value. Some brands hold their value better than others, which can be important if you plan to sell or trade in the vehicle down the line.
Insurance Costs: Call your insurance provider to get an estimate of what your monthly premiums will be for this car. Different models can have varying rates based on safety features, repair costs, and theft rates.
Total Cost of Ownership: Besides the initial price, consider how much you will spend on fuel, maintenance, and insurance over the car’s life. This total cost of ownership can give you a clearer picture of whether the car is a smart investment.
Conclusion
A test drive is your opportunity to get a feel for the car and make sure it meets your needs. By preparing in advance, asking the right questions, and testing the car’s performance across different scenarios, you can make an informed decision about your next vehicle.
Remember, the test drive isn’t just about the car’s features—it’s about finding a vehicle that complements your lifestyle and provides the comfort, reliability, and performance you need.
Respect: We treat everyone we encounter with respect regardless of their circumstances.
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Fun: We put the fun back in car buying - we're friendly, outgoing and passionate in every interaction.
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Trustworthy: We are open, honest, and clear when communicating and committed to helping customers as trusted advisors.
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Persistent: We keep pushing for a solution or option even when others would give up and even if that means thinking outside the box to get the job done.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many used car dealers are in Spokane County?
There are over 20 used car dealers located within Spokane County, providing a wide selection of vehicles for local buyers.
How to find used cars by owner near me?
Finding used cars by owner near you can be done by searching online classifieds, local car forums, and social media groups, as well as checking neighborhood bulletin boards and community sites.
What is the APR for used car loans near me?
The APR (Annual Percentage Rate) for used car loans near you can vary depending on factors such as your credit score, the vehicle's age, and the lender. Contact your local dealership or lender to discuss the specific APR rates available for your used car financing needs.
How to find used cars near me?
Finding used cars near you involves searching online marketplaces, visiting local dealerships, and utilizing resources like vehicle history reports to ensure you get a reliable and affordable pre-owned vehicle.
Can used cars be negotiated?
Yes, used cars can often be negotiated. Buyers can typically negotiate the price of a used car to get a better deal, as the final sale price is generally more flexible than with new cars.
Can used cars be leased?
Used cars can be leased. Leasing a used car can be a cost-effective option, providing flexibility and potential tax benefits, though terms may differ from new car leases.
How to look for used cars near me?
Looking for used cars near you can be done by searching online marketplaces, visiting local dealerships, and checking classified ads to find the best deals on vehicles in your area.
How to find used car purchase brokers near me?
Finding used car purchase brokers near you can be done by searching online directories, checking local listings, or asking for referrals from friends and family who have used such services.
How to find a used car near me?
Finding a used car near you can be achieved by searching online marketplaces, visiting local dealerships, and utilizing resources like price comparisons and consumer reviews to identify the best options in your area.
Can I get a used car delivered to my house?
Yes, you can get a used car delivered to your house. Auto Credit Sales offers delivery service for their Nicer, Newer® used vehicles, making the car-buying process more convenient for their customers.
Do used car dealerships buy cars?
Used car dealerships do buy cars from individuals and other sources to resell them to customers.
Do used cars have sales tax?
Used cars are subject to sales tax, which is typically calculated based on the selling price of the vehicle. The sales tax rate varies by location, but it is generally a percentage of the purchase price.
What is the current auto loan rate for a used car near me?
The current auto loan rate for a used car near you can vary depending on your credit score, the vehicle's age and mileage, and the lender. Typically, used car loan rates range from 3% to 15% APR.
Do used cars need full coverage?
Whether used cars need full coverage depends on factors like the vehicle's value, age, and your personal preferences. Full coverage may provide more protection, but it may not be necessary for all used car owners.
Where can I buy used car tires near me?
You can purchase used car tires from local tire shops, auto parts stores, or online retailers that specialize in used and discounted tires in your area.
How to get a used car home?
Getting a used car home typically involves arranging for transportation, such as driving it yourself or having it delivered, and ensuring proper insurance and registration before driving it off the lot.
How to look up used cars?
Looking up used cars involves searching online marketplaces, visiting dealerships, and evaluating the vehicle's history, condition, and pricing to find the right used car that meets your needs and budget.
How to search used cars near me?
Searching for used cars near you involves using online platforms, visiting local dealerships, and considering factors like price, mileage, and condition to find the best match.
Where can I buy used car parts near me?
You can buy used car parts near you by checking local auto salvage yards, junk yards, or online marketplaces that connect buyers with sellers of used car parts in your area.
Can used car prices be negotiated?
Used car prices can typically be negotiated, as sellers often have some flexibility in the pricing. Buyers can research market prices, compare offers, and politely negotiate to get the best deal.
Who buys used car batteries in Spokane?
Automotive repair shops and scrap yards in Spokane buy used car batteries. They recycle the lead and other materials in the batteries for reuse.
Do used car dealerships offer payment plans near me?
Used car dealerships near you often offer flexible payment plans to help make purchasing a vehicle more affordable.
How to search for used cars?
Searching for used cars involves considering factors like budget, desired features, and vehicle history to find the right car that meets your needs and preferences.
Can used cars be financed?
Yes, used cars can be financed. Many lenders, including dealerships and banks, offer financing options for the purchase of pre-owned vehicles.
What is the best used car dealership near me?
Auto Credit Sales in Spokane, WA offers a wide selection of Nicer, Newer® used vehicles, a hassle-free car-buying experience, and financing options to help you find the perfect used car at the right price.
Do used car dealerships negotiate?
Used car dealerships typically negotiate on the price of vehicles. Negotiations allow customers to potentially get a better deal on the purchase of a used car.
How much are used cars near me?
The prices of used cars near you can vary depending on factors such as the make, model, mileage, and condition of the vehicle. To get an accurate estimate, it's best to check with local dealerships or online listings for used cars in your area.
Where can I buy used cars near me?
You can buy used cars at local car dealerships in your area. These dealerships offer a wide selection of pre-owned vehicles at various price points to meet your budget and transportation needs.
Where can I sell my used car in Spokane Valley?
You can sell your used car at Auto Credit Sales, a trusted car dealership in Spokane Valley that specializes in buying and selling used vehicles.
Places who buy used cars near me?
Used car dealerships in your local area are the best places to buy used cars near you. These dealerships offer a range of used vehicles, financing options, and warranty coverage to meet your needs.
Where can I buy a used car near me?
You can buy a used car near you at your local auto dealerships, such as Auto Credit Sales in Spokane, WA, which offers an expanded inventory of Nicer, Newer® vehicles and a hassle-free car-buying experience.
How to find used car dealers near me?
Finding used car dealers near you can be done by searching online directories, checking local listings, or asking for referrals from friends and family. This can help you locate reputable dealers in your area.
Where can I buy used car batteries near me?
You can purchase used car batteries from local auto parts stores, junk yards, or online retailers that specialize in used automotive parts and accessories in your area.
Where can I buy a used car battery near me?
You can buy a used car battery near you at local auto parts stores, repair shops, or by searching online for used car battery suppliers in your area.
What are Spokanes top-rated used car dealers?
Auto Credit Sales, a trusted used car dealer in Spokane, offers an expanded inventory of Nicer, Newer® vehicles and a hassle-free car-buying experience for customers.
How do Spokane used car prices compare?
The used car prices in Spokane are generally competitive and affordable compared to other nearby markets, offering a wide selection of Nicer, Newer® vehicles at reasonable prices.
What warranties do Spokane used cars carry?
The warranties on Spokane used cars can vary, but many dealers offer limited warranties on their vehicles to provide protection and peace of mind for customers.
Are there certified pre-owned cars in Spokane?
Yes, Auto Credit Sales in Spokane offers a selection of certified pre-owned vehicles that have been thoroughly inspected and come with additional warranties.
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