Ready to purchase a new vehicle? The experts at Thornton Chevy, Central Pennsylvania’s premier Chevrolet dealer, recommend that you first get behind the wheel and take a spin around the block to ensure the vehicle is right for you.
Test driving a new car is the best way to get acquainted with the vehicle and can be the “make or break” factor in your decision to purchase. The test drive can answer numerous questions for you and can give you a feel for what it will be like owning the car.
Thornton’s expert staff has outlined the following tips for a successful test drive that they hope customers will consider when coming in to test out a car:
Do your research.
While a good portion of the decision making process happens on the car lot, you should also devote some time and research to the vehicle before ever setting foot in a dealership. There are many aspects to consider before determining if the car is right for you.
Cost and expense are important factors to consider, for example, as it is very important to know how much you should expect to pay. Research the invoice price of the vehicle, as this will tell you what the dealer paid for the vehicle, giving you a good idea of how honestly the dealership is pricing their vehicles. Also, check the manufacturer’s website for any rebates or promotions
Research the dealer specifically, and keep your options open to go to other dealers. Look to online reviews and overall customer satisfaction with the particular dealership, and ask neighbors and friends for their honest opinion of the sales person and dealership. Many dealers have end-of-the-month quotas, so if you shop for a vehicle then, they may offer discounts and promotions to help tempt you into purchasing.
Ask plenty of questions.
It’s important to ask the dealer plenty of questions, but there are also some questions you should be asking yourself. Below are eight questions to consider when test driving a new car:
- Do you feel safe in the vehicle?
- Is the vehicle easy to get in and out of?
- Are the controls easy to read and to use?
- Can you see everything on the road with no blind spots? Be sure to include the rearview mirrors and the side mirrors.
- Is the seat comfortable? Can it be adjusted to your liking?
- Is there enough room for all passengers?
- Does the car live up to your expectations?
- Do you like the vehicle enough to purchase it?
Take as much time as you need.
Do not feel rushed or pressured to finish your test drive. Take all the time in the world to be sure that the vehicle is the right fit for you. While driving, evaluate the following parts of the vehicle:
- Acceleration
- Engine noise
- Hill-climbing power
- Braking
- Steering
- Cornering
- Suspension
- Seat comfort
- Rattles and squeaks
- Cargo space
It might also be helpful to ask the sales person to drive the car so that you can sit in the passenger seat and obtain a different view of the vehicle. Thoroughly evaluate the entire vehicle to confirm that it is the right choice for you. Do not feel pressured to make a decision right on the spot. Think it over for as long as you need before driving it off the lot and calling it your own.
Thornton Chevrolet
Purchasing a new car is an exciting and rewarding experience. It is important to be informed on all aspects of the vehicle by doing your homework, asking questions, and taking as much time as your need to make a decision. Thornton Chevrolet is a valuable resource for all your car questions and maintenance needs. For more information, visit Thornton Chevrolet online today at www.tchevy.com.
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