The Test Drive
The dealer’s idea of a test drive is often a little local run with him telling you the route. But if you are forking out for a new car, there needs to be much more to it than this. Take command, tell the salesman what you want to get out of the test drive and, if you don’t know the area, ask him to show you the way to roads which will offer the kind of driving you do on a day to day basis.
Bear in mind that, particularly with expensive cars, there’s nothing worse for the salesman than wasting his time with people who can’t think of anything better to do on a Sunday afternoon and are not really serious about buying. Let him know you are a serious buyer and he should be happy to give you the time.
Here’s how to make the best use of that time:
- Before even thinking about taking the car out, have you checked it will fit in your garage? Is the boot big enough for your needs? Will your friends have room in the back? When you get in the drivers’ seat, take time to get comfortable and adjust seat and mirrors etc.. Fully familiarise yourself with the instruments and controls so that you can drive relaxed. Are the controls and instruments where you want them and easy to read?
- How does the driving position feel? You may spend years getting in and out of that car - make sure you’ll want to. When you move off, go somewhere with roads that are similar to those you’ll be driving every day. How does the car feel, is it smooth? Does it handle the way you want it to - to suit your kind of driving. Some people prefer a firm, sporty feel, others prefer smooth and quiet. Is it to your liking?
- If you spend a lot of time on motorways, make sure you get to one and spend a reasonable amount of time there. How’s the wind and road noise?
- Somewhere on the test, try a little reversing. Can you see ok out of the back? Is the car maneuverable?
- Don’t allow yourself to be hurried. Spend plenty of time with the car familiarising yourself with it. Compare it in your mind with other cars you have tested. Can you get out easily at the end?
Click ‘here’ for a printable check list to take with you on the test drive.
