8 Tips to Make the Most Out of Your Test Drive Appointment
One of the most exciting things about car shopping is definitely the test drive. This is where you get the most authentic feel of that dream car you’ve been eyeing. In this step, you can get the overall sense of how the car handles, how comfortably you fit in the driver’s seat, and which features are an essential requirement.
If you’ve recently scheduled a test drive with us or if you’re thinking about scheduling one in the near future, here are some tips to make the most out of your appointment:
1. Make a Checklist of Things You Prioritize
Everyone’s needs are different when looking for a car. Some people value speed, performance, and handling, while others will put comfort and safety as their number one priority. Whatever your requirements are, list them down and keep them in mind when you’re test driving your chosen car.
2. Bring a Friend
It’s always good to have a second opinion. Bring along a friend, family member, or the person who will also be driving the vehicle to help you with the whole process. There may be things that the passenger side experiences differently from the driver’s side and it’s good to have a view of both.
3. Plan Your Route
It’s helpful to know beforehand which areas you would like to take your car for a test drive around. Are there highways nearby? Are there rough and smooth streets? Are there opportunities for you to accelerate, decelerate, and come to a full stop? Our OpenRoad dealerships are all located in areas with everyday city traffic as well as close to highways so you can test out your car in real road conditions.
4. Inspect the Car Inside and Out
Whether you’re test driving a new or used vehicle, it is important to inspect all the exterior and interior details of the car such as the overall size, cargo space, mirrors, windows, buttons, display screens, etc.
5. Drive How You Would Normally Drive
If this is going to be your everyday car, you should drive it the way you normally would in the city and on the highway.
- Test out the acceleration and deceleration. How easy is it? Is the speed acceptable for the way you drive?
- Get a feel of the steering and handling of the car. Is it smooth enough?
- Test the brakes and safety features. Is there noise when you hit the break? Do you feel safe in case of an emergency?
- Test the suspension. How is the car in speed bumps and stop-and-go traffic?
6. Test Out the In-Car Features
When you’re driving, see how accessible the buttons or screens are. They should not distract you from driving. Test the radio and the sound quality if the in-suite entertainment system is important for you. See how well the air conditioner and heater work. If there are any in-car features that are lacking, more often than not they can be added on as accessories through any of our dealerships.
7. Try parking
Find a spot where you can parallel park and back up. This will give you a good perspective of how long and wide your vehicle is. It will also give you a chance to take note of any blind spots in the different angles of your vehicle.
8. Take Your Time and Ask Questions
Finding the perfect car isn’t easy, luckily our friendly OpenRoad sales advisors are always there to guide you and are happy to answer any questions you may have. They want to find the perfect car for you as much as you want the perfect car for yourself.
What better season is there to test drive a car than right now? Don’t hesitate to book a test drive at one of our dealerships today!
