Test Drive Check List

Here we have put together a test drive checklist for you;

First look

• How does the car look at first glance?
• Does the colour appeal to you?
• Is it what you expected?
• Does the lines and body appeal to you

Comfort

• Adjust seat, mirrors and steering wheel before you attempt to begin the test drive.
• Make sure you are physically comfortable while driving the car.
• Pay close attention to back support, legs and feet space and size.
• Look and examine the dashboard.
• Are the controls easily accessible while driving
• Can you see all gauges, when seat and steering wheel is at your optimal position?
• Open storage and other compartments.
• Look for cup holders.
• Adjust A/C, stereo and other accessories while driving, do you have to stretch and are you distracted.
• Try reversing the car into a parking spot, to see if all angles are visible and to find blind spots.

Driving

• Don't let the salesperson intimidate you by being in the passenger seat.
• Drive the way you normally drive.
• Test acceleration and braking capabilities safely.
• Test cornering capabilities safely.
• Test responsiveness of pedal to acceleration safely
• Test shock and comfort of drive.

Interior/Compartments

• Check all storage compartments.
• Check you visual appeal of dash board.
• Check for lighting of dash when lights are turned on.
• Check for quality and craftsmanship of work.
• Can interior storage space suffice your needs.
• Do you have enough head room and leg space.
• Can interior facilitate a car seat?
• Can it accommodate children and adults?
• How much regular passengers do I carry on a daily basis

Exterior/Truck

• Is the truck space big enough for shopping, suitcases, car pools, deliveries?
• Does the available colours appeal to you.
• Does the car look visually attractive.
• Is there a full size spare with tools.

Security

• What type of alarm system does the car have?
• Keyless entry, viper, gas lock, immobilizer?
• Do doors unlock once car if off.
• Does alarm lock all doors? without pressing alarm
• Does rear doors have child safety locks?

What to expect

Be prepared to test drive with a salesperson on board. The test drive can last up to 30mins. Need to have drivers license with you. Have a clear idea of what you expect from the car. Don't be intimidated by the salesperson. Drive the way you normally drive. Don't be afraid to take a second test drive. Ask questions about vehicle and concerns.

The Dealership

Once you buy a new car, you will be visiting the dealerships often. Here are some suggestions for picking a good dealership.

• What's the reputation of this dealership? Check with family and friends. Find out about vehicle quality and complaints.
• How do you rate the sales staff? Do they know the products? Are they courteous? Do they really want to help or just sell a car. Are they pushing you to sign up and then move on the next customer? Are they listening to your needs?
• Check out the service department. Is it clean, organized, neat? Is the service reps genuinely concerned with making customers happy? Ask friends and family about service reputation and any horror stories. Check Bureau of Standards for complaints and problems.