Shopping for Cars? How to Make the Most of the Test Drive

After a home, buying a car is the biggest purchase many of us have to make. To ensure you're making a smart investment, it's important to do a thorough test drive before purchasing a car. A short drive around the block doesn't constitute as a test drive, as it gives you little time to assess a vehicle's comfort, features and how it rides. When shopping at car dealerships in New Jersey, consider these tips to get the most out of your test drive. 

Know what you're looking for

Before visiting car dealerships in New Jersey, you should have an idea of what you're looking for. Know the options you're interested in, including the make and model. When you get to the dealership, test drive your top contenders back-to-back, so you can properly compare them. Let your salesperson know the vehicles you are interested in and that you want to test them consecutively for a proper comparison. Allow about a half hour per test drive.

Before the test drive

Before the driving aspect of the test drive, the salesperson will explain the features of capabilities of the car. Take note of the cars' safety features, fuel efficiency, and electronic amenities. For used cars, inquire about the previous owner and the vehicle's accident and maintenance histories.  For new cars, ask if it's been used in demos. 

Walk around the car to examine the exterior to ensure it's in good condition and to your liking. When you get inside, spend some time observing the interior, including the car's design, comfort level, and storage space. Also sit in the backseat to ensure there's enough space for your passengers. 

Adjust the seat, mirrors, and HVAC system to your liking, and become familiar with the controls. Take note of their location, and test everything from the locks and windows to the radio and electronic amenities. Consider whether you like the layout of the dashboard. If you are satisfied with the car, then you can move on to the driving portion.

Getting behind the wheel

When driving the car, you want to mirror your driving habits. Do you drive frequently on bumpy backroads? What about fast, smooth highways? Test drive the car on a variety of road conditions to ensure you like how it operates. If possible, bring a partner or friend along to help you make observations during the drive. Have them jot down some notes based on your observations.

Analyze the smoothness of the ride and how easy the car is to operate. Take note of the car's maneuverability. Do the brakes bring you to a quick and smooth stop? Is it easy to turn and accelerate? Also be mindful of the car's visibility, and turn off the radio to see if the car makes any strange noises or vibrations. 

Reflection

The test drive is an essential part of the car buying process. When it comes time for the test drive, don't rush through it. Take your time to become acquainted with the vehicle to be sure it's right for you. After the test drive, reflect on the experience. Think about what you liked and didn't like about the car and decide if it's still a contender.

5 Ways to Take the Fright Out of Car Buying

Does the car buying process make you feel spooked? Don't worry; car buying doesn't have to be scary, especially when you shop at Autoland in Springfield, NJ. Ease your fright and fears with our car buying tips.   

Decide on a budget and features 

Prior to going to new and used car dealerships in NJ, decide what you need and want in your next vehicle. Make a list of the costs you'll incur from purchasing and owning the car, including the down payment, monthly payments and interest, gas, maintenance and repairs, and insurance. Before you buy, find out what your insurance rate would be for the car you're interested in buying. At the same time, assess your personal finances to determine the amount you can afford to spend on a car and all the associated expenses. 

Once you've established your budget, decide the features you need and prefer the car to have. Make a list of the features you absolutely need, as well as a wish list for items you would like but could do without. Then search online to come up with a list of vehicles that meet your criteria and satisfy your budget. Refer to car buying guides like Kelly Blue Book and Edmunds to better understand the values of the different cars.  By knowing what you're shopping for, you'll feel less overwhelmed when you hit the lot and actually leave with what you came for. 

Look at new and used 

Depending on your budget, consider both new and used cars as viable options. If you want a new car that fits into your budget, buy a slightly used one. The value of a new car depreciates once it leaves the lot, so you can save some money by purchasing a pre-owned vehicle with low miles. But, if you are planning on keeping the car for the long haul, then purchasing new can be a good investment and more realistic option.  Have an open mind; look at new and used vehicles, and calculate the price and ROI before making a purchase.  

Don't buy from a private seller

While you may find a cheap used car being marketed by a private seller, this type of sale can be very risky. Private sellers are not legally required to abide by the same laws and regulations as NJ Toyota dealers , so you risk getting scammed. Not to mention, car dealers have trained technicians that do a full inspection on pre-owned vehicles before they hit the lot, as well as offer warranties and protection plans for further vehicle protection.

Consider the purchase price 

When looking at cars, consider the purchase price. Don't be swayed by a low monthly payment. While an affordable monthly payment is important, you need to look at the actual purchase price when buying a car. A lower payment extended over a 72-month repayment cycle will cost you more in the long run, so be sure to do the math. Also factor in any extra and hidden costs, such as vehicle preparation, delivery fees, and taxes. 

Do not forget the test drive 

The test drive is one of the most important parts of car shopping. You can read all you want about a car on paper, but the test drive is the only way to experience how it rides and assess its comfort and compatibility with your needs. As the potential owner, you should be the one to test drive the car. Don’t just go for a ride along with the dealer. If possible, have a partner or close friend come with you, so they can their ears and eyes peeled for things you may not notice.  See how the car feels while idling, accelerating, decelerating, stopping, and turning, and also test it at both slow and fast speeds and on the various road conditions. 

Don't let the car buying process spook you. For a pleasant car buying experience, follow these tips.  To find your ideal vehicle at the best price, come by our new and used car dealership at Route 22 in Springfield, NJ. We look forward to connecting you to the perfect car for your needs, preferences, and budget.