You should test drive the car before buying it. This is the only way you can determine if the vehicle will work for you. It is important to take the time to test the vehicle before you buy it.
When you are ready to take a test drive, be sure that the dealership has provided you with the proper paperwork. This can include your driver's license, proof of insurance, and other information that will help the dealership verify your identity and make a thorough investigation of the car you are considering purchasing.
If you are buying a used car, you should also get a vehicle history report. This will reveal any problems the car's previous owners have that could be alarming before you buy it.
A car history report will help you identify potential problems with the car before you take it on a test drive. It will also give you the opportunity to ask questions about the history of the car that you may not be able or able to answer in person.
This can be done with Autocheck who will check the vehicle's history and notify you if any issues are found.
Before you test drive the car, check that it is in excellent condition. If the car is in poor condition, it will not perform well and you could be wasting your time.
Once you have found the right vehicle, make an appointment to take it for a test ride. Usually, the dealership will have a pre-planned test drive route that involves a variety of driving conditions and lets you experience how the car responds to different situations.
It is a good idea for a friend to accompany you on the test-drive, so they can provide their feedback on the vehicle. They can tell you how comfortable the car is, how it will handle, and what other concerns they have about the vehicle.
During your test drive, make sure you evaluate the brakes and steering. You want the steering to feel light and easy to use, and the brakes to be firm but not too firm.
You'll also want to check the suspension. You should also check the suspension if it is feeling bumpy or unstable before you make a purchase.
If you're not able to go for a test drive, ask the dealer if they can have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before you buy it. A mechanic will be able to identify any issues that you missed during your test drive, and can help you estimate the cost of fixing those problems.
After you've finished your test drive of the vehicle, create a checklist listing the things that you liked and the things that didn't. This will let you compare the cars you've tried and help to determine which vehicle is best.