In today’s click-and-collect world, buying a car online seems like a breeze. Seriously, with just a few flicks of the wrist and clicks, you can get all the deets you need, from descriptions and pictures to reviews and ratings. But let’s be real, folks, nothing beats actually getting a first-hand feel for the car’s handling, its cozy (or not-so-cozy) interior, and how it zips (or chugs) along the road. All this can be a game-changer when it comes to making your decision to buy or walk away.
So, let’s buckle up and dive into some practical tips that will help you make the most of your test drive.
Get the Googling bit done first
Think of yourself as a detective. Research car models, and dive deep into features, tech specs, and pricing. Watch some South African YouTube car reviews, genuinely, these are a total goldmine of info. And then ask yourself what you really want out of your car. Do you prize fuel efficiency, space, or tech gadgets?
Lastly, after all your noodling around online, create a list of your top 5 dream cars. This will help you stay focused and not get distracted by anything shiny that zooms into your inbox from all those websites you’ve been perusing.
Know your test drive route
It’s kind of hard to focus on how a car feels when you’re concentrating super hard on where you’re going. It’s much better to map out each route from your various dealership visits so that you can avoid crowds and busy intersections. We’d say that early mornings or weekdays are your best bet.
Remember, a test drive isn’t just a quick spin around the block. It’s about making sure the car fits into your life like a glove. The perfect car doesn’t just look good… It feels right, too.
You need a second opinion, so bring a buddy
Bring along a buddy to offer up a second opinion and notice things that you might miss, and of course, jot down anything you want to make note of while you’re driving around. Plus, everything is more fun with friends.
Check the car, check it real good
Walk around the car like a detective on a mission. If it’s a second-hand car, look for any signs of damage or wear. Check the tyres, lights, and paint. For new cars, make sure everything is pristine. Inside, check the comfort of the seats, legroom, and the quality of the finishings. If you have any mechanical knowledge, take a peek under the hood to see if everything looks shipshape.
Time to take it for a spin
Time to hit the road. This is when you want to pay attention to how the car handles acceleration, braking, and cornering. Is the steering responsive? How smooth is the transmission? Visibility matters, too, especially when reversing. Listen for any odd noises at different speeds. And don’t forget to test the AC, which is honestly a lifesaver in our sunny climate.
Make sure the tech works
Seriously, play around with everything. We mean everything. Hit the windscreen wipers, zoom those windows up and down, put the AC on hot and cold, and play around with the infotainment system. You should also test the GPS, connect your phone, and try out any driver assistance features.
This is your chance to see if the car’s tech is as cool as it looks on paper, so don’t be shy.
Ask your questions
Got the salesperson’s attention? Good. Hit them with all your questions (questions, nothing violent), including the car’s warranty, service history, and if it’s ever been in an accident. Ask for proof. Clarify financing options and any hidden costs. Don’t forget to ask about fuel efficiency, safety features, and upcoming maintenance needs. Knowledge is power.
A cup of coffee
This is when you get a decent cup of coffee and reflect on all that driving and questioning. Ask yourself, did the car meet your expectations? Was it comfy and fun to drive? Did you feel safe? Compare it to other cars you’ve tested and give each 1 a score. This will help you make a clear, objective decision.
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Psst… This blog provides general info only, and doesn’t count as financial or product advice from King Price or our legal and compliance experts. Remember, all our premiums are risk-profile-dependent, and T’s and C’s apply. Our most up-to-date KPPD (policy wording) can always be found here.
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