The journey to buying your first car is an exciting one. But before jumping into the driver’s seat, be sure you know what to look out for. Test driving a car can reveal important details about its performance and condition that you may not find on paper. You want to leave the dealership feeling confident and secure in your purchase, so here are 9 things to consider before taking your first test drive.

Key Takeaways

In this post, you’ll learn how you need to take your time on the test drive – don’t rush it! Here are points to note:

• The importance of test driving a vehicle before purchase
• How to prepare for your first test drive
• What to look out for during the drive
• Questions to ask yourself after the drive is complete
• The importance of a pre-purchase inspection
• What to do if you’re not comfortable with the car after the test drive

Read on to learn more:

1. Make Sure You Have a License and Proof of Insurance:

Before you’re allowed to drive, the dealership is going to require a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance. Dealerships do this to verify your eligibility to drive, and also as a form of protection for them in case something goes wrong when you’re at the wheel. In fact, you should be wary of any salesperson who doesn’t request to see a valid license and proof of insurance. Make sure you bring both before setting out on your first test drive.

2. Ask About the Vehicle’s Maintenance History:

If it’s a used vehicle, you should always ask to see the car’s maintenance records. Make sure that any major work on the car has been done, and if not, ask for a discount or an agreement from the dealership that they will cover any necessary repairs. It’s also a good idea to get the car inspected by an independent mechanic before you commit to a purchase.

3. Research About the Model You’re Interested In:

Before you take a car out for a spin, make sure to do your homework. Online research is an invaluable tool; read reviews from actual owners of the vehicle and look up crash test ratings on the model that interests you. Find online forums dedicated to the make and model of the car you’re considering and see what others have to say. This will give you a more well-rounded idea of the pros and cons of the vehicle than just test driving it can.

4. Check the Vehicle’s Safety Features:

Your safety should be your priority when test-driving a car, so make sure that all of the vehicle’s safety features are in good working order. Look for functional ABS brakes, traction control, and airbags, as well as any other safety features that are important to you. Pay special attention to the condition of the brakes, which can wear out quickly and be costly to repair if they’re not in good working order.

5. Inspect Every Bit of The Car

Hopefully, you came prepared to get dirty – because you’ll want to get down and dirty when inspecting the car. This means lifting up the carpeting, checking for rust and corrosion, looking at the chassis for any signs of damage or repairs, and checking the engine compartment for oil leaks or other telltale signs of trouble. Check underneath for any welded-on parts or other signs of aftermarket customization. If you don’t feel comfortable doing this, consider asking a mechanic to look at the car with you before you buy it. The more thorough your inspection is, the better off you’ll be when it comes to making an informed purchase decision.

6. Test More Than One Car

Don’t put all your eggs in one basket – it’s important to test drive more than one car before making a decision. Even if you fall in love with the first vehicle you try out, take the time to drive a few other cars as well and compare them side-by-side. This will give you an even better idea of what features and capabilities you’re looking for in your dream car.

7. Make Sure You’re Not Being Pushed Into Making Decisions

If you feel like the salesperson is pressuring you into signing a contract or agreeing to buy a car, don’t hesitate to walk away. You should never purchase a car if you don’t feel 100% comfortable with it. Take your time and get all the information and facts that you need to make an educated decision – no one should be able to rush you into making a life-altering decision like this.

8. Don’t Be Afraid To Negotiate

When it comes to buying a car, the sticker price that is advertised may not necessarily be what you end up paying. Don’t hesitate to try and negotiate a better deal with the dealership or seller – this is what they do every day and it’s their job to get the most out of a sale.

9. Listen to the Engine As You Drive

As you’re driving, keep an ear out for any unusual sounds that may be coming from the engine. Listen for whistles, wheezes, and other sounds that may indicate something is not quite right. Unusual noises can indicate a potential issue with the car and could end up costing you more in repairs down the line if not addressed immediately. Ensure you ask the dealership or seller about any noises that may be heard before purchasing.

Buy Your Dream Car With Eastern Shore Hyundai

Eastern Shore Hyundai has a huge selection of new and pre-owned cars, crossovers, and SUVs to choose from. Our knowledgeable sales staff will help you find the perfect car for you and your budget. Visit us today in Daphne, Alabama, or contact us online to browse our inventory or schedule a test drive.