 An important, but often neglected feature to take into consideration when test-driving a vehicle is the steering system. While all steering systems perform similar functions, they're not all created equal. The steering factor is an important factor to take note of when purchasing new or used, because it's a vital link to how well a car performs on the road.
Most sales people accompany potential buyers on road tests, while some dealers allow you to take the vehicle out by yourself. Either is fine, but if you can take the car yourself, do it. And, take it for an extended test-drive -- at least 25 miles. Test the vehicle on all roads and on the highway to determine whether it performs correctly at various speeds. While you're driving, ask yourself some questions:
Does the model you're test-driving perform similar to your old car?
Does the engine run smoothly?
Do the gears shift easily?
Are there any noticeable rattles, squeaks or shakes?
Are you comfortable in the car?
To ensure adequate field of vision and improve steering control, the height of the driver's seat should be checked. The steering wheel should be no higher than the top of your shoulders: The tilt steering wheel or column option may be for you. Your hands should fall at "eight" and "four" o'clock, with upper arms resting on your rib cage.
As mentioned above, taking the car out alone is terrific, because you can put it through any paces you want; using caution, of course. If there are two of you who will be driving the vehicle, both should take a turn at the wheel. Test out those steep hills, parallel parking and stop-and-go traffic situations. Put the car through some short stops and hard turns to see how well it responds. Try to duplicate the road conditions that you will encounter most often.
Probably most important is how comfortable you are in the car. Does it feel right? Are the vibes you're getting good ones?
Before you return to the dealer, stop and evaluate what you've discovered while test-driving. This helps you develop perspective on your initial opinions before the sales person hits you with his/her pitch.
Whatever you do, don't skip the test-drive. Believe it or not, many buyers neglect to test-drive the model they want, choosing a vehicle only by how it looks, or how popular it's reported to be. This is a big mistake.
Another way to find out how well you like a particular model is to rent it for a day or two. Only by actually sitting in the vehicle and maneuvering it on the road can you be sure that the car that looks so good also handles well and rides comfortably.
Happy Motoring!
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